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ROXY and its sequel ROXY 2 are two-part films now streaming on Biodun Stephen’s YouTube channel. The project is a collaboration that sees Biodun Stephen not only credited as the story originator but also appearing on screen as Evangelist/Sister Yetunde. The screenplay is by Omas Princess Benjamin, with Olubunmi Akingbola directing and Olubunmi Dare producing, while Stephen serves as executive producer.
At its core, ROXY attempts to blend drama, morality, romance, and faith, but while the ambition is evident, the execution leaves much to be desired.
Plot Overview
The story follows Roxy, played by KieKie, a sex worker whose life takes an unexpected turn when she comes across a badly injured man, Boni—later called Mike—portrayed by Taye Arimoro. He has been attacked during a robbery and left for dead by the roadside. Against all odds, Roxy decides to help him, rushing him to the hospital with assistance from a friend.
Boni survives, but complications arise when it becomes clear that he has lost his memory completely, including his identity. From there, the narrative explores their unusual connection and the events that unfold as they attempt to navigate his condition and her troubled life.
General Impressions
One positive aspect of ROXY is that it is relatively family-friendly despite touching on prostitution. The film avoids explicit depictions and steers clear of graphic portrayals, making it suitable to watch even with younger audiences around.
Visually, the movie benefits from realistic locations. The worn-down buildings and everyday environments feel authentic and grounded, adding a sense of realism to the storytelling. Cinematography is warm and generally pleasing, while costume, makeup, and props are decent and believable. The cast also puts in commendable performances overall.
However, where the film struggles is in structure and direction. Several crucial story points are delivered through dialogue instead of visual storytelling, which weakens emotional impact. Rather than showing, the film often resorts to telling, and this affects engagement.
Structural and Narrative Issues
One of the biggest drawbacks is the decision to split the story into two long parts, each nearing two hours. The plot simply does not justify that length. Everything presented could have been condensed into a single feature-length film without losing substance.
There are also logical gaps that are hard to ignore. For instance, the hospital’s decision to release Boni into Roxy’s care raises serious questions, especially given the involvement of the police. The handling of his memory loss feels outdated, particularly in a modern setting where social media could easily help identify him.
The timeline of the story is equally confusing. At different points in ROXY 2, the narration contradicts itself regarding how long Boni has been undergoing treatment, which breaks continuity.
Character Development and Relationships
The emotional connection between the two leads never fully lands. While KieKie brings her usual comic charm to the role, the romantic angle feels forced. The chemistry between her and Taye Arimoro is weak, making it difficult to fully invest in their relationship.
Boni’s backstory, especially his relationship with his fiancée, is underdeveloped. The audience is given too little context to understand his emotional detachment, and the fiancée’s reactions feel rushed and stereotypical, seemingly designed only to push sympathy toward Boni.
Faith Elements and Unanswered Questions
The film flirts with being faith-based but never fully commits. Scenes involving church gatherings, worship songs, and Bible readings feel repetitive rather than impactful. The moral messaging is unclear, and certain choices—like the evangelist handing out condoms—raise more questions than answers.
Perhaps most frustrating is the lack of closure regarding Boni’s medical condition. The absence of a clear explanation from a professional figure makes the ending feel incomplete and unsatisfying.
Final Thoughts
ROXY 1 & 2 had the potential to be a compelling drama, especially with its memory-loss premise. Unfortunately, that theme was not explored deeply enough. While the story is different from the usual offerings and may resonate with some viewers, it did not meet expectations for me.
Verdict: 4.5/10
Have you watched ROXY and ROXY 2? Did it work for you, or did you also leave with more questions than answers?
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