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The Nigerian action film Son of the Soil recently made its way to the streaming platform Netflix after spending several months in cinemas. The film, written by British-Nigerian actor Razaaq Adoti and directed by British-Chinese filmmaker Wuchu, attempts to merge Nollywood storytelling with a more Hollywood-inspired action style.
With creators who have experience in the international film industry, expectations for the movie leaned toward a fresh approach to the local action genre. While the film succeeds in delivering visually engaging fight sequences and a gritty atmosphere, its narrative and character development struggle to reach the same level of impact.
Story Overview
At the centre of the story is Zion Ladejo, a former Special Operations soldier who returns to Lagos following the tragic death of his sister. Determined to uncover the truth and avenge her killing, Zion plunges into the city’s criminal underworld.
His search for justice leads him through dangerous territories controlled by gang leaders and drug traffickers. As he confronts the individuals connected to the crime, the story explores themes of revenge, corruption, and survival in one of Africa’s most vibrant yet complex urban environments.
Where the Film Shines
One of the most impressive elements of Son of the Soil is its setting. The filmmakers place the story within the densely populated slums of Lagos, capturing the chaotic energy of the city. The streets are crowded, the environment is rough, and the visual backdrop—complete with bustling markets and open dumpsites—adds authenticity to the film’s world.
This setting strengthens the movie’s portrayal of criminal networks and underground activities. The raw urban environment complements the story’s focus on gangsterism and drug trafficking, making the stakes feel more grounded.
The acting performances also add credibility to the film. Razaaq Adoti takes on the role of Zion with a serious, controlled presence that reflects the mindset of a man driven by revenge. Meanwhile, Taye Arimoro delivers a memorable performance as Shaka, a menacing figure connected to the criminal cabal.
Young actor Ijelu Folajimi also stands out as Remi, a street girl navigating life in the slum. Her portrayal brings emotional depth to the film and highlights the struggles of children growing up in difficult circumstances.
Veteran actress Patience Ozokwor adds another layer of emotional intensity as Zion’s mother. Known for her commanding screen presence, she brings authenticity and weight to her scenes.
Another highlight is the film’s action choreography. The fight scenes are carefully staged and visually engaging, with punches, knife fights, and gun battles portrayed with attention to detail. The sound design—featuring gunshots, blade clashes, and other effects—helps intensify these moments, making them feel impactful.
In addition, the soundtrack and sound effects play an important role in building suspense throughout the movie. They enhance the gritty atmosphere and support the film’s action-driven tone.
Where the Film Struggles
Despite its strengths, Son of the Soil encounters major challenges with its storyline. The plot follows a familiar revenge formula that audiences have seen countless times. While the premise has potential, the film rarely introduces surprising twists or complex layers to maintain suspense.
Another issue lies in the portrayal of the main character. Zion is described as someone who grew up in the ghetto and gained notoriety there, yet some aspects of his character do not fully align with that background. His mannerisms and language sometimes feel disconnected from the environment he is meant to represent.
Furthermore, Zion’s behaviour does not always reflect the strategic mindset expected from a former Special Ops soldier. Instead of carefully planning his moves, he often approaches situations impulsively, confronting enemies without a clear tactical strategy. This portrayal weakens the believability of his military background.
The film also misses opportunities for deeper character development. Zion’s past is referenced several times, including his military career, dishonourable discharge, and involvement in violent incidents. However, these details are only mentioned briefly and never fully explored.
For example, Zion claims he once saved Jagun’s life, yet the film does not reveal when or how this happened. Such moments could have enriched the narrative but are left unexplained.
The same problem affects the film’s main antagonist, Baptiste. Although he is positioned as a powerful drug lord and respected doctor, the movie provides very little insight into his motivations, influence, or personal story. As a result, the conflict between hero and villain lacks the depth needed to feel truly compelling.
Another noticeable flaw is the cinematography. The film adopts a gritty colour grading style that suits the tone, but the camerawork becomes distracting. Frequent shaking and awkward angles do not always add tension; instead, they sometimes disrupt the viewing experience.
Rather than immersing the audience in the action, these visual choices occasionally pull attention away from the story.
Final Verdict
Son of the Soil deserves credit for its ambitious attempt to blend Nollywood storytelling with Hollywood-style action. The authentic Lagos setting, strong performances, and well-executed fight scenes are clear highlights.
However, the film’s predictable storyline, limited character development, and inconsistent cinematography prevent it from reaching its full potential.
Rating: 5/10
Watch trailer below…
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