Diverse, intense, authentic: ‘Offshoot’ raises bar for Nollywood crime dramas

In its opening scene, the crime-drama movie establishes Modesire as the Acting Head of Operation and General Investigation after the demise of her former boss, Mr Muktar Hassan. Being the first woman in the history of the agency to occupy such a role, she was determined and committed to curtailing the illicit production, importation, exportation, and trafficking of narcotics in the country.

While Modesire is grappling with her huntdown of the drug cartel and the threats to her life, her husband Dike, played by Kelechi Udegbe, who runs a furniture business is dealing with the sudden appearance of an unwelcome friend from his past. These put a strain on their sweet and romantic marriage, which is blessed with a teenage daughter, Amara with Modesire having to look for solace in her mother, played by Abeni Balogun ‘Madam Saje’. At work, Modesire enjoys the friendship and loyalty of Tony her colleague turned Chief of Staff, portrayed by Ibrahim Suleiman.

Despite the threats and resultant strain on her marriage, Modesire continues to go hard on the drug kingpins with some celebrated hits and embarrassing misses until a shocking discovery stops in her tracks.

One might assume that this film would follow the conventional storyline of a superheroine apprehending drug traffickers, but ‘Offshoot’, produced by Verte View Production, defies expectations. It is a crime drama that strays from the typical linear plot structure and instead weaves together intricate storylines that are complex, intense, and emotionally resonant. As the film progresses, it builds upon its suspenseful atmosphere.

A noteworthy aspect of this movie is its use of diverse languages—Yoruba and Igbo. The cast features talented actors including Greg “Teddy Bear” Ojefua, Bimbo Manuel, David Jones David, Tomiwa Sage Kukoyi, Kevin Ushi and Vera Ephraim, who convincingly portray their characters in this movie. While watching the movie unfold before your eyes, you will come to appreciate the effort put forth by the filmmaking team in crafting authentic psychological scenes that effectively connect with viewers on both emotional and intellectual level.

 The director alongside the cinematographer tactfully created a unique noir style using blue tones to create mid-contrast while also incorporating brightness during key moments such as when NDA goes on a raid. The crew demonstrated an understanding of colour psychology wherein blue represents calmness or sadness. Unlike some other Nollywood films where production crews may neglect thematic visual language consistency; each sequence in ‘Offshoot’ pays meticulous attention to detail regarding well-balanced colours from the beginning to the end. This will definitely elicit emotional reactions from the audience. Moreover, the sound design along with the kinetic fighting scenes creates boiling tension, thereby adding spontaneity and authenticity resulting in a classic project.

There are no glaring loopholes except for some illusory scenes. Hopefully, there will be a second part of the story.

The movie was directed by Ayeny T. Steve, and produced by Oluwatoyin Adewumi and Benjamin Abejide Adeniran. Screen play was by Temitope Bolade-Akinbode and Diche Enunwa. Oluwatoyin Adewumi is the executive producer.