African Stories Untold, in partnership with Nemsia Studios, has released Say Who Die on Prime Video. Directed by Paul Utomi and starring twins Meyi and Oiza Abu in their feature debut, the film arrives with an intriguing premise. But does it deliver? Let’s get into it.

A Premise That Promises More Than It Delivers

The synopsis reads: “Odion, the chaotic twin and family misfit, stumbles into the drug underworld while juggling debt, secrets, and sabotage. With her sister leaving for the UK and danger closing in, she must risk everything to survive—and maybe prove she’s more than just the black sheep.” While that setup hints at a gripping tale, the actual film struggles to flesh out its plot fully. Choices feel abrupt, resolutions too convenient, and certain developments are left dangling. Still, there’s something undeniably fresh about its originality and ambition, making it stand apart from standard Nollywood storytelling.

A Chaotic Story That Can’t Quite Hold Together

Set over the course of just three days—most of which unfold in a single day—the narrative is bold but unsteady. Too many threads compete for attention, leaving the film feeling overcrowded. Odion’s quick resolution with Abdul, after selling the drugs, borders on implausible and undercuts the tension that had been building. Dialogue is another stumbling block, with repetitive lines dragging certain exchanges into redundancy. Yet, the consistency of the characters is a saving grace: every major player acts in line with their established traits, keeping the story at least grounded in its world even when the plot falters.

Performances That Balance the Experiment

For a feature film debut, Meyi and Oiza Abu handle the weight of dual leads impressively. Oiza delivers a solid performance as Odion, capturing her flawed determination, while Meyi’s comic leanings as Omon feel mismatched in tone but still show promise. For newcomers, their presence is striking and memorable. The supporting cast fares reasonably well, though Baaj Adebule’s Jaja is a noticeable weak spot. His choices feel offbeat in ways that distract from, rather than enhance, the narrative—though perhaps this reflects the film’s overall experimental spirit.

Technical Flair That Elevates the Film’s Feel

Visually, Say Who Die shines. The film embraces a bright colour grade that, while seemingly at odds with its darker themes, it complements its Genre. Music plays an inspired role, though it occasionally overstays its welcome—particularly in extended moments like those following Omon’s death. Where the film really stands out is in its transitions and shot choices, which are smooth, inventive, and help compensate for writing weaknesses. The film employs stylistic and purposeful technical elements like jump cuts and whip pans that elevate the story

A Flawed but Fresh Attempt

Certain narrative choices strain credibility. In one of the earlier scenes, Odion’s ability to outrun Jaja feels unrealistic, while the poisoning subplot involving Rolake collapses under scrutiny. The mother’s decision to poison a full bottle at a party—then leave it lying around—feels like a forced twist meant only to add chaos. It’s one of several examples where intrigue is manufactured rather than earned.

Verdict

Say Who Die is innovative, and daring in its approach, even if it stumbles in its execution. Its originality, unprecedented humour, and willingness to experiment are commendable, but the story’s rough edges, uneven acting, and implausible twists hold it back.

Still, it’s a breath of fresh air that introduces us to promising new talents and a world filled with lively characters.

Rating: 2.75/5