The Origin: Madam Koi-Koi

The evolution of Nollywood is a fascinating journey, marked by its efforts to explore different genres and storytelling techniques. In the context of this particular movie, while it's commendable to witness Nollywood branching out into new territories, there's a pertinent question regarding its classification. Is it rightfully a horror film or does it primarily lean towards being a thriller?

The distinction between horror and thriller often lies in the level of fear and tension evoked. It appears that in this case, the horror elements might have been downplayed, overshadowed by the thriller aspects. This could potentially lead to audience expectations not being fully met, especially for those anticipating a more intense and frightening experience typically associated with horror movies.

Moving on to the much-anticipated second chapter, there seems to be a noticeable shift in pacing and content. Long, winding dialogues and action scenes that lack momentum contribute to a sense of stagnation within the storyline. The movie's overall impact appears to suffer as a result, leaving viewers with a feeling of dissatisfaction and a lack of engagement.

The disappointment stemming from prolonged dialogues and sluggish action sequences might affect the overall perception of the film. Where audiences anticipated a sequel that would heighten tension, excitement, and perhaps delve deeper into the horror aspect, the reality seems to fall short.

While diversification within Nollywood is undoubtedly a positive step forward, it's crucial for films to maintain a coherent balance within their intended genres.

The Origin: Madam Koi Koi

This two-part movie tells the story of Madam Koi Koi, a myth of a ghost that haunts boarding schools at night.

Split between two timelines (1971 and 1991), the main timeline introduces a new schoolgirl in a school that makes her ill at ease. Amanda (the new schoolgirl) navigates school life while being haunted by a vengeful spirit, delinquent fellow students and an egocentric Mother Superior. The alternate timeline delves into the origin of the myth, Madam Koi Koi.

The first part lays the groundwork for this flick, depending on its thrilling elements as it unfurls the tale, while the second part wraps up the story with relishing infusions of horror. The story here is portrayed in a simple and unpretentious manner, the action scenes aren't grand (which is fitting). This flick also manages to have an indelible feel of dread, and this is brought about by the stunning visuals, set designs and chilling soundtrack. The movie also does a fine job of avoiding unnecessary or filler scenes, each scene is purposeful to moving the story along. Due to the extended screen time, the pacing is handled well. There's also a true telling of boarding life in Nigeria. The only plot flaw is making the death of the delinquent boys occur off-screen, this detracted from the horror metre.

Themes of sexual assault, victim blaming and grooming are unflinchingly portrayed, whilst avoiding being gratuitous but staying true to how they occur.

The characters in Madam Koi Koi will make you feel something (apathy is impossible), you either like them or you hate them with vitriol, and this is brought about by the stellar performance of the cast. Martha Ehinome is an interesting lead. Ireti Doyle delivers arguably her best performance to date, giving her character a very nuanced portrayal. Off the heels of portraying a delinquent in Schooled, Chuks Joseph delivers another convincing role.

The Origin: Madam Koi Koi gives hope to what Nollywood can produce, and it is undoubtedly one of the best offerings from 2023 (if not the best.)

8-8.5/10.

First of all, is it your idea and at least you should have given credit to your sources. Do you support young African writers as well as you do to other Crew members. Originality is key in every project. If we dont have it will affect quality of production in the long term. You can collaborate with writers to make a good production team, especiallythose who have a direct connection or experience with the context of the scripts.

Its a series which most times exposes weaknesses in the scripts. If it does not live up to expectations. That will mean another creative idea wrongfully packaged together.

It's awesome to see Nollywood diversifying it's sitcom from the regular love, betrayal and comedy that they are known for. However i think the movie can still have more gruesome scenes. When Madam Koi-Koi comes for a kill, showing it wouldn't be a bad idea.

Madam Koi-koi, like the bush baby has been a legend in most boarding schools around Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa and other African countries. She is usually depicted wearing a red high heel and it makes a clicking and clacking sound, popularly known as 'koi-koi' hence the name of the ghost.

It is a Keep it up guys. I am hooked and a fan. Love it.