OkReviewed By Ajibare Abioye
“The Arena” is a limited series that gives face to the fact that gospel movies are not only capable of spiritual impact, but social transformation as well. Conceived by Oluwakemi Sodeinde, its main plot that follows Lalere and Deboye and the subplot of Junior and the youths of Marogun were compelling in almost equal measure. Therefore, if both had been better juxtaposed, the pacing inconsistencies that dominated its first half would not have been.
Most of “The Arena” takes place in Marogun village, which gives the movie an uncommon rustic serenity, though the actual events of the narrative couldn’t be more different in nature. This oxymoronic feature is what makes the film a charming story with a lot of heart. Its plots therefore steadily reach a confluence that is rewarding in the sense of its climax and twists towards the end.
The acting in “The Arena” is credible. Kayode Babalola and Jide Ogunmilade pass as reunited old friends, while Moromoluwatiketike Abolaji and Omolara Ayoola are remarkable as respective wives in their supporting roles. Emmanuel Aderibigbe brings an earnestness to his meek Junior, while Philip Oyeleye, Havinslota Ogunbiyi Adeyinka and Ajala Isaac carried themselves as leaders of the Marogun youths with the required “finesse”. It was also great to see veteran Evangelist Jerry Oluwagbemi as Prophet Oludana, whose de-aging makeup for a flashback scene is worthy of commendation.
The importance of remembering one’s roots is emphasized in “The Arena”. Though mostly used in the social context, it is equally spiritually true. One of the things that really caught my attention here is that according to Scripture, the good news is being preached to the poor. Thus, if truly we have had an encounter so profound that it turned our lives around, we should endeavour to bring more people into that experience. Conclusively, success is doing what God wants us to do, where He wants us to do it. The measure of the quality of our lives is more how well than how long.