Niyi Akinmolayan’s 2023 thriller House of Secrets attempts to become a hit by featuring a mix of star power and innovative storytelling techniques. The film offers a unique cinematic experience, using flashbacks and black-andwhite scenes to evoke nostalgia.

The production design and cinematography set new standards for Nollywood, but the story falls short with some flaws. The plot follows two timelines, set in 1999 and the present day, revolving around Sarah, an aged woman with lost memories.

When her supposed family members approach her, she begins to uncover hidden secrets that involve a politician and a valuable document. The film impresses with its blackand-white aesthetic and well-executed camera work, but the script lacks cultural authenticity, relying solely on English without native tongues. Unfortunately, House of Secrets struggles to maintain intrigue, as some plot points are too predictable, diminishing the suspense.

Additionally, the portrayal of traitor characters seems questionable, affecting the overall narrative coherence. Some performances lack depth, especially in the train scene, and the chemistry between the love interests remains lacking. In the end, House of Secrets manages to excel in cinematography and production design but falls short in delivering a captivating storytelling experience.

The film scores a 6/10, leaving room for improvement in crucial aspects like plot development and character motivations. House of Secrets is currently streaming exclusively on Prime Video.

Boluwatife Adesina
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Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.