Iyalode Movie Review: Is It Worth The Hype? | POV Crew Reacts
What’s It About?
Iyalode, directed by Adebayo Tijani, follows Asabi Onile, portrayed by Toyin Abraham, a formidable warrior woman who navigates political intrigue, betrayal, and tradition in her quest for justice in the village of Kulende. Set against a backdrop of Yoruba heritage, the film blends epic action with cultural depth.
Cast & Characters
- Toyin Abraham delivers a riveting lead as Asabi—fierce, charismatic, and emotionally grounded.
- Supporting roles feature Muyiwa Ademola, Kareem Adepoju, Gabriel Afolayan, Kehinde Bankole, among others.
- The ensemble stands out, offering strong performances, particularly in emotional scenes and culturally infused interactions.
Direction & Production
Tijani’s vision leverages traditional Yoruba aesthetics with modern filmmaking techniques—lush costumes, evocative sets, and atmospheric sound design. Critics note the soundscape “elevates the movie and adds a layer of emotion”.
Fight choreography is solid, capturing Asabi’s physical prowess, though a few scenes feel overly prolonged. Still, they serve the narrative of a warrior reclaiming power.
Strengths
- Lead performance: Toyin Abraham anchors the film—commanding respect and empathy.
- Cultural richness: Deep dive into Yoruba traditions, highlighted with language and symbolism.
- Sound & visuals: The atmosphere is immersive; the music and design elevate emotional impact.
- Behind‑the‑scenes polish: Cinematography and art direction rival international Nollywood blockbusters.
Points of Critique
- Pacing issues: Some sequences linger longer than needed.
- Narrative depth: Subplots involving secondary characters, while well‑acted, don’t always receive full resolution.
Box Office & Reception
Since its release on June 6, 2025, Iyalode has been a blockbuster hit. It grossed almost ₦200 million in just two weeks, topping the box office and ranking as Nigeria’s highest earner so far in 2025. Online reviews echo the enthusiasm:
- Viewers describe it as “amazing… rich, emotional, and empowering”.
- Reviewers on POV channels call it a “gripping historical Nollywood drama”.
Final Verdict
Iyalode is a culturally potent, visually stunning epic elevated by Toyin Abraham’s riveting performance. It’s not perfect—balancing its grand ambitions sometimes results in pacing lags—but its emotional core and cultural resonance make it a standout in modern Nollywood. Whether you’re drawn to heritage stories, strong female protagonists, or just solid entertainment, Iyalode delivers.
Let us know your opinion in the comment section if Iyalode the movie really worth the hype it has been gathering recently.
