In Mending, director Robert O. Peters trades spectacle for sincerity, crafting a deeply introspective film that sits with pain rather than trying to fix it. What begins as a simple domestic story slowly reveals itself as a layered psychological journey about the long-lasting effects of trauma. Anchored by a nuanced performance from Nancy Isime and supported by a visually delicate production, Mending delivers an emotionally grounded and thoughtfully executed drama.

Where The Scars Begin

Mending is a story about fear. The fear of being left behind and the fear of facing the past. Sumi (Nancy Isime) is a woman shaped by loss: her mother is dead, her father abandoned her, and she’s learned to survive by building emotional walls. Her marriage to Damini (Ademola Adedoyin) and her bond with her best friend Funbi (Omowunmi Dada) are her anchors. But when Fela, a figure from her past, unexpectedly reappears, her carefully maintained balance begins to unravel. The betrayal she discovers from Funbi only deepens the emotional fracture, forcing Sumi to confront the wounds she’s long buried.

The film explores themes like abandonment, emotional repression, and the fragile nature of trust. Its strength lies in how it presents these ideas not through dramatic speeches, but through silence, restrained dialogue, and small emotional shifts. The story unfolds with emotional authenticity, letting the audience feel the weight of Sumi’s experiences leaving it to our interpretation.

When the Past Isn’t Past

Mending is structured to mirror how unresolved emotions rise to the surface quietly and in pieces. There’s a slow rhythm to how the narrative unfolds, allowing each emotional beat to breathe. The plot leans into psychological realism rather than dramatic escalation. Key moments, like Sumi’s internal hesitation around her husband (distance, and space. One would initially think it was more of zero chemistry between her and her co-actor) or her discomfort when Fela returns, don’t rely on overt drama but speak volumes through body language and pacing. The use of visual transitions helps tie the emotional timeline together, enhancing the film’s psychological undercurrent.

The editing avoids flashy tricks and instead supports the narrative arc with subtlety. While this slowburn approach may test the patience of some viewers, it pays off with emotional resonance, especially in the film’s later scenes. It’s a quiet build but one with emotional bite.

Faces That Speak in Silence

Nancy Isime is the centre of Mending’s emotional gravity. Her portrayal of Sumi captures a woman constantly in battle with herself, trying to remain composed while the past creeps in. Her performance uses restraint effectively, making moments of vulnerability feel earned. Isime’s expression work and emotional timing speak to a character who is quietly unravelling.

Ademola Adedoyin plays Damini with grounded realism, offering support without overpowering the narrative. His presence becomes a subtle indicator of Sumi’s state of mind. Omowunmi Dada as Funbi is warm and believable until the betrayal hits, giving her character dimension beyond the typical best friend archetype. Shaffy Bello brings gravitas to her role, delivering both comfort and caution in equal measure. Enyinna Nwigwe delivers a composed and emotionally aware performance as Dami, serving as a steadying contrast to Sumi’s instability.

Intimate Frames and Emotional Landscapes

The film’s technical language is soft but purposeful. Cinematographer choices, including tight framing, soft lighting, and muted colours, reflect Sumi’s internal state. The production design favours minimalism, keeping attention on the characters’ emotional journeys. Transitions between scenes aren’t just practical; they support the emotional flow, mimicking memory shifts and mental strain.

Editing decisions are subtle yet thoughtful, ensuring that the story maintains its slow pace without losing coherence. The sound design stays low and steady, never intruding but always present. Costume choices remain grounded and believable, reinforcing the story’s realism and psychological focus.

Final Thoughts

Mending doesn’t aim to dazzle, it aims to resonate. It’s a film about confronting hurt that hasn’t healed, and learning to live with emotional scars. The film doesn’t provide closure wrapped in a cute bow, but it does offer understanding. It recognises that some healing is slow, quiet, and painfully honest. And in doing so, it offers something rare: emotional truth.

Verdict

Mending is a slow, emotionally intelligent drama that rewards patience. It’s for viewers who want to feel, reflect, and sit with the silence between the lines.

Rating: 3.25/5