Biyi Bandele, dir. <i>Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman</i> . 2022. 96 minutes. Yoruba/English. Nigeria. Netflix. No price reported.

Death and the King's Horseman.It is a visually stunning and intellectually engaging film that delves into the intricate layers of cultural clashes and personal conflicts.Released in 2022, this adaptation skilfully captures the essence of Soyinka's celebrated play by captivating visuals, compelling performances, and thoughtful re-enactment.Set in Oyo kingdom during the 1940s, the story revolves around the tragic fate of Elesin Oba, a horseman who is tasked with committing ritual suicide to journey with the king into the spiritual realm.Bandele effectively captures the beauty of the Oyo landscape and Yoruba culture, navigating complexities while effectively communicating weighty themes.The breathtaking cinematography transports viewers into the village, showcasing vibrant colours, traditional costumes, ceremonies and rituals, elevating the historical event into a visual and sensory experience.From the outset, the film showcases the traditional architecture of the village, characterized by mud huts adorned with intricate patterns, thatched roofs, and colorful murals.These elements are not merely decorative, they establish a sense of a setting that is deeply rooted in Yoruba identity.The production design meticulously recreate the environment, ensuring that every visual detail resonates with authenticity and an ancient depiction.The film's vibrant colour-blend is another hallmark of its production design.The use of rich, earthy tones juxtaposed with vibrant fabrics in costumes brings the characters and their world to life.The traditional attire worn by the villagers is particularly striking, with elaborate patterns and textures that reflect social status and cultural significance.It contrasts those worn by the British officers and the Yoruba elites, reflecting class and grandeur.The costumes are not just clothing; they embody the characters' identities and their connections to the community, reinforcing the film's thematic exploration of duty, honor, and class stratification.The use of horses and bicycles as means of transportation equally depicts the practice of the precolonial and colonial times.Central to Elesin Oba is the ritualistic aspect of Yoruba culture, which Bandele captures with meticulous attention to detail.He portrays various ceremonies and rituals that are integral to Yoruba life, including the vibrant market scenes and traditional dances.The market is depicted as a bustling hub of activity, filled