Blogger turned media mogul Linda Ikeji is back in the cinematic spotlight with her new film, “Reverse,” which just premiered nationwide on May 16, 2025. After the impactful “Dark October,” expectations are naturally high. But does “Reverse” truly deliver on its promise to be a gripping and thought-provoking drama?
Movies are a huge part of my creativity, and I am particularly excited to watch this one. I heard Linda Ikeji mention in an interview that it was based on a true-life experience, which immediately piqued my interest as it’s my favorite genre.
The film’s inspiration, as Linda Ikeji explained, stems from her own experience of being denied hospital treatment until a deposit was paid, despite her fame. This resonates deeply, shedding light on a pervasive issue within Nigeria’s healthcare industry: the agonizing reality of how little human life can seem to be valued without money. Thus, “Reverse” isn’t just about individual heroism; it’s about broader societal issues and the often-harsh realities ordinary people face.
“Reverse” features a stellar ensemble of Nollywood’s finest, including the phenomenal Hilda Dokubo (who plays the villain), Antar Laniyan (passerby turned a major character), Susan Pwajok (as Rita), Kalu Ikeagwu (as Jerome), and Yvonne Jegede (as the Nurse).
At its core, “Reverse” tells the story of Rita, a young girl whose life takes an unexpected turn after a courageous act. She witnesses a shopkeeper assaulting a young boy and bravely steps in. This seemingly simple intervention sets off a chain of events that spirals beyond her control, forcing her to confront unforeseen consequences and battles.
These “chains of events” at times felt almost cringeworthy and unbelievable, yet they perfectly illustrate the Domino Effect – where one seemingly minor moment can trigger a series of cascading, related incidents. I found myself thinking, “She could have easily done this!” while watching certain scenes.
Linda Ikeji’s intent is clear: to tell stories that not only entertain but also provoke thought and stir emotions. The question then becomes: while pursuing this goal, is the plot intelligent enough to rival the Hollywood productions to which many of us are accustomed?
“Reverse” stands out as a noteworthy addition to the Nollywood landscape, offering an impactful story that starkly exposes the woes of the health industry and our collective disregard for human life. If you’re drawn to dramas that explore real-world issues, it’s definitely a film to consider checking out.
