A Critical Analysis of Characterization and Set Design in Kemi Adetiba’s To Kill a Monkey

This paper provides a critical analysis of Kemi Adetiba’s crime thriller series, To Kill a Monkey, focusing on the interplay between characterization and set design. The study examines how these two cinematic elements contribute to the narrative, thematic development, and overall message of the film. Utilizing a theoretical framework that combines mise-en-scène analysis and narrative theory, the paper deconstructs the visual and narrative strategies employed by Adetiba. The analysis uncovers a considerable disparity between the film’s ambitious narrative and its execution, notably in the domain of character development, which frequently depends on expositional dialogue rather than demonstrative methods of action. The set design is identified as a key strength, effectively conveying the characters’ social and psychological states, especially in the depiction of the nouveau riche. The paper argues that while the set design provides a rich visual subtext, the underdeveloped characterization limits the film’s narrative depth and emotional impact. This study contributes to the growing body of scholarship on Nollywood cinema, offering a nuanced analysis of a significant contemporary work and highlighting the importance of a cohesive relationship between visual and narrative storytelling. The findings suggest that a more integrated approach to characterization and set design could have elevated To Kill a Monkey from a visually impressive thriller to a more profound and resonant narrative experience.