Lateef Adedimeji, who recently played the lead character in the biopic ‘Lisabi: The Uprising’, has taken on the role of Soyinka in ‘Wole Soyinka – Eni Ogun’.

Produced by Joshua Ojo, the biographical film follows the early life, journey, activism and achievements of the 90-year-old Nigerian playwright and novelist.

The actor impressed the audience in many biographical films in which he starred and produced (Lisabi). Expectations for this revival are high as the film is scheduled to be released on November 29th.

The biographical film, distributed by Genesis Cinemas, stars notable actors such as Segun Arinze, Jide Kosoko, Ibrahim Chatta, Bimbo Oshin, Femi Branch, Dele Odule and Makinde Adeniran.

Adedimeji as Wole Soyinka

As excitement builds around the release of Wole Soyinka – Eni Ogun, audiences are especially eager to see how Adedimeji embodies the legendary figure of Wole Soyinka.

The film’s trailer features actor Soyinka with his iconic gray hair and beard, aiming to bring to life the personality of the literary legend.

However, despite efforts to replicate the look, Adedimeji bears little resemblance to the iconic figure, raising questions about his suitability for the role due to his physical appearance and manner of speaking.

Moreover, the trailer doesn’t convey much of the interesting scenes or tension that could attract viewers.

While the trailer is not enough to judge the outcome of the film, Adedimeji from the trailer makes a notable effort to convey his look and accent.

If we compare Soyinka’s distinctive personality and Yoruba accent to Adedimeji’s, this might be the most difficult role to play.

Why Wole Soyinka – Eni Ogun Biopic

PREMIUM TIMES reminds According to the producer, it was earlier stated that the intention behind the film was to highlight the rich history, heritage, legacy and culture of Nigeria and Africa, which are often overlooked or under-represented.

He explained that he faced difficulties to achieve this but went on to create a masterpiece. He said he was involved in an incident that seriously injured his leg, leading him to choose between amputation or emergency surgery.

According to him, the accident did not stop him from achieving his goal of making Soyinka’s Biography.

biopic

This is not the first time Wole Soyinka’s life and legacy has been brought to stage or screen. In honor of his 90th birthday, the theater play “Noble Warrior—Eni Ogun” written by Aiye-ko-ooto was staged.

Similarly, in 2014, to celebrate Soyinka’s 80th birthday, another theater play called “Eni Ogun”, adapted from Soyinka’s autobiographical works, was staged.

In 2015, author Dapo Adeniyi adapted Soyinka’s autobiography into a film titled “Ake: Childhood Years”, showcasing his early life.

ALSO READ: How ‘Pagan’ Wole Soyinka saved born-again Pastor Chuzzy Udenwa, By Uzor Maxim Uzoatu

More recently, in July 2024, Femi Odugbemi produced “The Man is Dead,” a prose narrative detailing the arrest of Soyinka and his imprisonment for 22 months as a political prisoner.

Soyinka is a Nobel Prize-winning poet and political activist known for his profound literary contributions and lifelong commitment to human rights and justice. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986 for his “broad cultural perspective and poetic implications shaping the drama of existence.”

Watch the trailer below