Nora Awolowo and Canon reunite after the AMVCA-nominated, short film What Are You Truly Afraid Of? for yet another short film; Racket Queen. Interestingly, the project also reunites some crew like Abdul Tijani and cast members like Folu Storms from Nora’s feature debut earlier this year, Red Circle.
Racket Queen
Directed by; Nora Awolowo
Written by: Abdul Tijani-Ahmed
Genre: Drama
Language: English/Yoruba
The Bond Passion and Support Holds
Racket Queen follows the journey of Bamise (Pamilerin Ayodeji), a determined teenage girl chasing her dream of becoming a professional tennis player. Against all odds, her greatest source of motivation comes from the unwavering support of her mother (Tunbosun Aiyedehin).
Though battling illness, Bamise’s mother remains devoted to her daughter’s passion, taking her to train under coach Kabir (Kayode Jnr Ojuolape). But what should have been Bamise’s happiest moment, her debut tennis competition, turns heartbreaking when she returns home to the devastating news of her mother’s death.
Its Greatest Flaw is Its Duration
Indeed, Racket Queen’s biggest shortcoming is that it leaves the audience yearning for more. Particularly to see what becomes of Bamise after losing the only pillar of support in her life.
The short film explores themes of parental support, resilience, and loss, aiming to highlight the profound impact of a parent or guardian’s unwavering belief in a child’s dreams.
Told through a reflective lens, the story unfolds in flashback, beginning with an older Bamise giving an interview about her journey to becoming an accomplished, award-winning tennis player.
Keen Cinematography
When it came to cinematography, it was clear that no cost was spared. And this is no surprise with the partnership with Canon. But its not just the crispy shot or the bright pictures, rather the choice of angles. For the lead character, Bamise, we see some precise use of hero shot. Which gives her presence a more solidifying feel for the audience.
And then the production design ensured the realism was further cemented. With the color scheme choices for the locations and then some prop set up. That helped the audience quickly understand the situation Bamise and her mom find themselves financially. As well as the type of environment to which they are surrounded by.
Final Thoughts
Racket Queen reiterates the abilities short films have in delivering powerful stories. And also the importance of giving short stories just as much intentionality as one who give a feature. And we see the result of this in the great performance that Racket Queen delivers.
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