‘The Black Book’ (2023) Netflix Movie Review - A Gripping Thriller Exposing the Dark Side of Power

The Black Book is a Netflix original movie from Nigeria, directed by Editi Effiong and starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Ade Laoye, and Sam Dede. The movie follows Paul Edima (Mofe-Damijo), a deacon and a former gang member, who seeks justice for his son who was framed and killed by a corrupt police gang. With the help of a journalist, Victoria (Laoye), he tries to expose the truth behind his son’s death and clear his name. Along the way, he has to confront his past and the secrets he kept in a black book.

Deacon Edima is a respected man in his community. He is a devout Christian and a loving father to his son, David. However, his world is turned upside down when David is kidnapped by a group of corrupt police officers. The police officers accuse David of being involved in a kidnapping ring, but Deacon Edima knows that his son is innocent. He tries to get the police to investigate, but they refuse to help him.

Desperate to save his son, Deacon Edima decides to take justice into his own hands. He begins investigating the kidnapping himself, and he soon uncovers a web of corruption that reaches the highest levels of the police department. As Deacon Edima gets closer to the truth, he finds himself in danger. The corrupt police officers are determined to stop him, and they will do whatever it takes to protect their secret.

One of the things that I liked most about the film is that it is not afraid to tackle difficult subjects. The film deals with issues such as police brutality, corruption, and the abuse of power. It also shows the devastating impact that violence can have on families and communities. One of the biggest problems is that it is quite long. The film clocks in at over two hours, and it can sometimes feel a bit repetitive.

Additionally, the film's ending is a bit unsatisfying. The characters are one-dimensional and uninteresting, as they lack any depth or development. Paul Edima is supposed to be a complex and conflicted character, who has to balance his faith and his quest for justice. However, he comes across as a passive and bland protagonist, who does not show much emotion or personality.

The Black Book is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that exposes the dark side of power and corruption. The film features strong performances from the cast, especially from Richard Mofe-Damijo. However, the film is quite long and its ending is a bit unsatisfying. Overall, I would recommend The Black Book to fans of crime thrillers.

The Black Book is a timely film that resonates with the current climate of social unrest and police brutality. The film shows how corruption can poison the institutions that are supposed to protect us, and how it can have a devastating impact on the lives of ordinary people. The film is also a powerful story of resilience and hope. Deacon Edima is a man who is pushed to his limits, but he never gives up on his son or his fight for justice.

The film is an inspiration to us all to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult. I highly recommend The Black Book to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and suspenseful thriller. It is a film that will stay with you long after you watch it.

Final Score – [7/10]
Reviewed by - Arpita Mondal
Follow @ArpitaMond33387 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times