Catch.er follows the story of an ambitious career woman who is murdered on her wedding anniversary. Her husband becomes the prime suspect. However, a police investigation unearths there in her life who may also have strong motive. Directed by Walter Banger Taylaur, the movie features OC Ukeje, Blossom Chukuwujekwu, Beverley Naya, Alexx Ekubo, Gbenro Ajibade, Omowunmi Dada, Wofai Fada, Kiki Omeili and Tope Tedela.
Hits
Acting. The new crop of Nollywood talents come to the table with their A-game to deliver strong performances. Worthy of not is award winning actor, OC Ukeje who embodies his role as Detective Komolafe. He is witty, sharp and no-nonsense in his approach as the catcher. Another scene stealer is Omowunmi Dada as Ese, the side chick of the deceased’s husband and domestic sex worker.
Lighting. The lighting design enhanced the foreboding mood typical of a murder case. The anxiety of the suspects is complemented with the creative use of different lighting. The variation in the textures also helped in effectively capturing the flashbacks.
Directing.Walter Banger Taylaur does a good job in getting the actors to emote without overacting. Also, the creative direction employed in camera, lighting, design and sound choices makes Catch.er come together nicely.
Camera work. Arguably, one of the biggest plus of the movie. The audience is given different perspectives into the lives of the characters. The suspects are on camera during the interrogation sessions and Taylaur is able to manipulate the different angles to focus on his subjects and heighten their emotional state.
Story. In a Nollywood clime where comedy is the order of the day, an interesting Whodunnit story is a welcome development. The audience is teased with clues throughout to keep them guessing. The intelligent and witty dialogue also helps in moving the story forward even when the pacing is slow.
Misses
Script. For a murder mystery film, the movie drags out veering sometimes into the melodramatic. With constant talking heads interspersed with brief action scenes, it becomes a chore to sit through to the end.
Pacing. While a whodunit is formulaic, when we finally reach the predictable ending, one wonders why it took so long. The content of the autopsy report should have come to view earlier on. A lot more was needed in character development of the killer to establish his motive for murder.
Reviewed by Isabella Akinseye.
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