Movie Title: For Maria Ebun Pataki
Year of Release: 2020
Viewing Platform: Netflix
Director: Damilola Orimogunje
Cast: Meg Otanwa (Derin), Tina Mba (Fola’s Mum), Judith Audu (Tola), Gabriel Afolayan (Fola), Demi Banwo (AY), Tubi Aiyedehin (Doctor).
Synopsis
Derin had just given birth to her first child and had her uterus removed as a result of excess bleeding during delivery. This resulted in a dour, apathetic and listless Derin who is unable to hold or breastfeed her baby instead of the blushing, cackling, and happy new mother expected. Initially sympathetic, but after some weeks of this “strange” behaviour Derin’s mother-in-law (Tina Mba) had had enough. “Is this one a mother?” “Is she the first to go through such?” “It is the pain you go through that makes you a mother.” These and many more were Fola’s mum’s statements to Derin.
Luckily for Derin, her husband, Fola, is quite the understanding and supportive husband. Where Derin fell short, he was there to step in and ensure the baby was fed and cared for. Unfortunately, his support had limitations and it resulted in the end that we see in this psychological thriller.
Highlights
Story
For Maria Ebun Pataki is a different kind of story, one that is sorely lacking in Nollywood. Its focus on postpartum depression/anxiety (PPD), mental health and societal expectations is unique and is a great starter for mental health conversations in Nigeria. Hopefully, more women would have the boldness to share their stories, and more help would be channeled for as many families that need it.
Casting/Acting
It’s a different thing to have a story and it’s another to find the cast to bring it to life. For Maria got its story, casting and acting right! Meg Otanwa, her bump and her acting were so real, and it was not surprising to read that she grew a bump for the movie. Yet to see a role that Gabriel Afolayan did not shine in, and For Maria is no different. Tina Mba with her Yoruba mother and “Olu Ijo Mimo” vibes was just so super! Stellar performance overall.
Research
Lots of research went into For Maria and it is quite evident. From the bleeding gums to the postpartum hair loss to the tinnitus and the swing from guilt to self-justification of a PPD mum. Yet another star for the writer/director.
Misses
The movie could have shown us some more solutions to the problem, instead of the problem alone. Yes, PPD is real and deadly. But it can be managed and Fola had all the elements of the man who could have helped Derin find a solution. The story did not dwell so much on a way out though. Only passing suggestions for Derin to see a therapist which we never saw her take up.
Notable Mention
Although that is the core of the movie, it was heartbreaking to see the baby cry inconsolably. It paints a vivid picture of what women and children in postpartum depression situations go through.
Conclusion
Contrary to most of society’s belief, not every woman becomes a simpering, cooing fool at the birth of their child and not every birth is a gift (ebun pataki). For some, rather than being the end of the 9-month arduous journey, giving birth marks the beginning of a different kind of terror. Interestingly, this side of the narrative hardly makes it to the screens. Rather, Nollywood has contented itself with comedies, romcoms, and a few thrillers. So, when a movie like For Maria Ebun Pataki is made, it must be recognised for the outlier it is. We however hope that this would encourage a new genre of storytelling from the Nigerian movie industry.
