In her latest short film, Leaving Ikorodu in 1999, Nigerian filmmaker Rashida Seriki crafts a quiet yet powerful meditation on leaving home. The film follows two characters walking a dusty path through rural Ikorodu, surrounded by palm trees, power lines, and the echoes of a fading era. It’s a story about transition, both personal and cultural, as Nigeria stands on the edge of a new century.
About the Movie
The film’s title is more than a timestamp, it’s a portal. Ikorodu, a town on the outskirts of Lagos, becomes a character in itself. The hazy visuals and muted tones evoke nostalgia, while the bridge and ladder in the background suggest both escape and elevation. Seriki uses the landscape to reflect the emotional terrain of her characters: rooted yet restless, familiar yet foreign.
Cast and Performances
The ensemble cast includes Motunrayo Abiola Oloke, Tomi Ojo, and Tobi Bakre, with Sheila Atim adding a quiet gravitas. Their performances are restrained but deeply felt, allowing the audience to project their own memories of departure and longing. The chemistry between the leads is subtle, built on shared silences and glances rather than dialogue.
A Film About What’s Left Behind
Leaving Ikorodu in 1999 doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, it asks: What do we carry with us when we leave home? What do we leave behind? The film explores themes of identity, generational change, and the emotional cost of migration. It’s a story that resonates far beyond Nigeria, speaking to anyone who has ever stood at the edge of a life and wondered what comes next.
Conclusion
Produced by NETWORK and FILM4, Leaving Ikorodu in 1999 is a testament to the power of short films to evoke deep emotion and cultural reflection. Rashida Seriki’s direction is intimate and lyrical, making this a standout entry in contemporary African cinema.
Whether you’re from Ikorodu or simply drawn to stories of home and transformation, this film invites you to pause, reflect, and remember.
