Swallow is a film lined up as a reflection of 80s Lagos. Set in mid 1980s Lagos during the military regime’s “ war against indiscipline”, following Tolani, who lives in a repressive society ,working as a secretary at a federal community bank while trying to support her unemployed, non-committal boyfriend, Sanwo. Her roommate and best friend, Rose, has a volatile personality. Rose is fired from her job after slapping their bank manager, Mr Lamidi Salako, who constantly abused his power to sexually harass his staff.
Read also: OBARA’M; NOLLYWOOD MOVIE REVIEW
Following Rose’s dismissal, the lecherous boss demands that Tolani replace Rose, leading to further harassment and workplace frustration for Tolani. Unemployed and deeply frustrated, Rose falls into the company of OC, an American returnee who introduced her to the drug trafficking world.
Rose seizes this moment to offer Tolani a chance to join her as a drug mule, tempting her with the promise of easy, life-hanging money.
While Tolani ultimately remains conflicted and refuses to compromise her morality, Rose swallows the illicit packages alone and boards a flight to London. Mid-flight, the drugs burst inside Rose’s stomach, resulting in her death. Devastated by the outcome and tired of her miserable existence, Tolani leaves Lagos and moves back to her village. Sanwo later tracks her down there bringing the news that the boss was finally suspended by the bank’s personnel department.
Swallow is a sweet, bitter pill for Nigerians, looking at how it reflects a society in the grip of middle-class poverty.
Read also: SHINA; NOLLYWOOD MOVIE REVIEW
Directed by: Kunle Afolayan
Cast: Niyola, Deyemi Okanlawon, Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha, Ijeoma Grace Agu, Mercy Aigbe
Running time: 128 minutes
Watch movie trailer here:
