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Isoken

Name: Isoken
Director: Jadesola Osiberu
Released: 2017
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

4.6/10

Fair

2017

Director

Jadesola Osiberu

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Isoken is a nuanced film that uses the romantic comedy genre to explore the tension between traditional ethnic expectations and modern identity. Its strength lies in its authentic portrayal of Nigerian life and the complexities of multicultural connections. While it effectively delves into issues of gendered empowerment, it remains within the confines of conventional storytelling.

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Category Breakdown

Does Isoken have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film adheres to a traditional framework focused on heterosexual relationships. There are no stories involving LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender identities.

How does Isoken portray gender?

Fair

Isoken's journey highlights her ability to take control of her life and make her own decisions. Despite facing maternal pressures, the story emphasizes her right to choose her own path.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Isoken?

Excellent

The film showcases Nigerian identity through a predominantly Black cast. It explores racial tensions and stereotypes through an interracial relationship.

How does Isoken represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative examines the balance between traditional African community values and modern individual desires. It focuses on family dynamics and the societal pressure to marry.

Does Isoken include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no significant depictions of visible or invisible disabilities in the film.

Present on Screen

An authentic depiction of Nigerian life and culture.
A nuanced exploration of a woman's journey towards self-empowerment.
Effective use of interracial dynamics to challenge racial stereotypes.

Limited or Absent

No representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender narratives.
No depiction of visible or invisible disabilities.
Reliance on a traditional framework centered around heterosexual relationships.

Official Synopsis

Everyone in the Osayande family worries about Isoken. Although she has what appears to be a perfect life - beautiful, successful and surrounded by great family and friends - Isoken is still unmarried at 34 which, in a culture obsessed with marriage, is serious cause for concern. Things come to a head at her youngest sister's wedding when her overbearing mother thrusts her into an orchestrated matchmaking with the ultimate Edo man, Osaze. Osaze is handsome, successful and from a good family, making him the perfect Nigerian husband material. But in an unexpected turn of events, Isoken meets Kevin who she finds herself falling in love with and he just might be what she truly wants in a partner. The only problem is, not only is he not an Edo man, he is Oyinbo (Caucasian). Isoken is a romantic dramedy that explores cultural expectations, racial stereotypes and the bonds that unite families in a touching, dramatic and comedic way.

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