Deeper: A Nollywood Thriller That Defies Convention
Unlike the usual Nollywood cautionary tales where good and evil are neatly defined, Deeper challenges viewers with moral ambiguity. It compels you to witness the unraveling of a seemingly perfect family, weighed down by secrets, desperation, and greed.
At the heart of this storm are David (Ozzy Agu) and Adelu Olurin (Anee Icha), a couple whose love story initially appears flawless. Their marriage is so ideal that Adelu’s friend Doyin wistfully remarks, “I just want what you guys have… a good husband and a happy family.” However, this illusion is fleeting. Beneath their enviable life lies financial distress, hidden debts, and an impending disaster they fail to foresee.
The Dark Side of Ambition
One of Deeper’s strongest points is its unfiltered portrayal of greed and the lengths people go to justify it. David is not depicted as outright evil; instead, the film showcases how the fear of losing status, power, and control can push a seemingly decent person to a breaking point.
His choice of sacrifice is both predictable and heartbreaking. Rather than turning against his family directly, he reconnects with an ex-lover, Digiola, who remains unaware of the grim fate awaiting her. What follows is a harrowing scene that shifts the entire tone of the series.
Anee Icha delivers an unforgettable performance, capturing every ounce of heartbreak, disbelief, and horror. The film doesn’t merely inform us of her shock—it immerses us in it, forcing us to feel her raw emotions in real-time.
A Cycle of Deception
Beyond David’s descent, Deeper also highlights how greed permeates all levels of society. Even the couple’s seemingly perfect daughter, Ire (Nata Bankong), is entangled in her own deception. Obsessed with her broke scammer boyfriend, Kokun, she repeatedly manipulates her parents for money, reinforcing the idea that self-interest and dishonesty are cyclical.
A Refreshing Take on African Spirituality
What sets Deeper apart from many Nollywood productions tackling similar themes is its nuanced portrayal of traditional spirituality. Instead of demonizing African ritual practices, the film presents them as systems with their own rules and consequences.
Rather than a priest swooping in to banish evil forces, the Olurins realize that their only path forward is to fulfill their end of the bargain. There is no convenient divine intervention—just the inevitable consequences of their actions. This departure from typical Nollywood narratives is refreshing, offering a more layered perspective on indigenous spiritual beliefs.
Strengths and Shortcomings
The film’s standout performances, particularly from Ozzy Agu and Anee Icha, make Deeper incredibly compelling. Their on-screen chemistry brings emotional depth to their characters, whether in moments of tenderness or intense confrontation. Ozzy Agu’s portrayal of David is especially captivating—his internal conflict is so well-executed that viewers may find themselves empathizing with him, at least until he crosses an irredeemable line.
Technically, Deeper is well-executed. The cinematography is crisp, the editing flows smoothly, and the sound design heightens key emotional moments. A particularly striking scene occurs when Adelu tells David, “Our run is done,” and the sound briefly cuts out, amplifying the weight of her words.
However, the film does have its flaws. Some scenes, especially in the second part, feel unnecessarily prolonged, slowing the momentum. Additionally, while David’s transformation is meant to be gradual, the story could have explored his internal struggle more deeply, making his descent even more gripping. Certain subplots, like Ire’s relationship with Kokun, are introduced with potential but lack sufficient development.
Ultimately, Deeper is a gripping exploration of greed, betrayal, and ambition. It refuses to offer easy resolutions, challenging audiences to grapple with its moral complexities. While not without flaws, the film delivers stellar performances, thought-provoking themes, and high production quality.
If you’re looking for a Nollywood drama that breaks away from conventional storytelling and leaves you pondering long after the credits roll, Deeper is a must-watch.
All three parts are now available on Showmax—watch with a friend, because you’ll need someone to discuss it with afterward.
