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In 'A Second Husband', Kenin O. questions the bias & double standards of polygamy [Review]

The short film written and directed by Kenim Obaigbena explores polyandry.

A first look at 'A Second Husband' shows a story that appears clear cut. A caring husband lives his worst nightmare when he discovers that his wealthy wife has taken a second husband.

Beyond its exotic subject is a protest complete with placards in that the profound Shorts questions the double standard approach to polygamy embraced within these shores. So, the story goes on to match all the what ifs. What if a cinematic universe exists where the woman literally calls the shots? What if she stipulates how her marriage should work?

Available exclusively on StreamOVG next Friday July 31st (link in @stream.ovg ‘s bio)  Kenim O Presents: A Second Husband  Starring: Osas Ighodaro (@officialosas ), Udoka Oyeka (@udokaoyeka ) and Jammal Ibrahim (@jammalibrahim ) Directed by: Kenim Obaigbena (@kenimness ) Supporting cats: Diana Yekinni (@dianayekinni ), Ade Laoye (@adelaoye ) Cinematography by Jerry Ossai (@ossai_jerry )

An almost certain first reaction to 'A Second Husband' is discomfort and maybe repulsion for some. The universe created by Kenim Obaigbena is unnatural and understandably shocking with characters as heavily laden metaphors.

Although selfish, Tope's character (Osas Ighodaro) represents a queer form of liberation. It is almost as though she holds the keys to an Utopian world, one the audience might be unsure of embracing.

Osas Ighodaro as Tope in ' A Second Husband' [Instagram/@Stream.OVG]
Osas Ighodaro as Tope in ' A Second Husband' [Instagram/@Stream.OVG]

Away from the sheer beauty of the tale is an equally awe inspiring performance by its actors. As Tope, Osas Ighodaro is constantly present even when the cameras take a break from her. The absence of a struggle to sound as Nigerian as possible doesn't play out here giving Ighodaro another opportunity to truly embody the character.

Udoka Oyeka as Kole in 'A Second Husband' [StreamOVG]
Udoka Oyeka as Kole in 'A Second Husband' [StreamOVG]

Kole wears his heartbreak on his sleeves and Udoka Oyeka ensures his audiences sees it with his delivery of unfiltered emotional breakdowns. Jammal Ibrahim brings a few worthy lines to life but that fizzles in comparison to his ample display of greasy biceps and taut thighs.

Jammal Ibrahim plays Suki [StreamOVG]
Jammal Ibrahim plays Suki [StreamOVG]

Demi -god bodies, impressive color grading will certainly get 'A Second Husband' its much deserved nod but all that pales in comparison to the protest in its message.

The short film is available to stream exclusively on stream.ovg.

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