In 3  Working Days, a father’s frantic battle to save his son takes place against the backdrop of Nigeria’s cashless policy. This Nollywood “thriller” depicts the battle of one guy against a failing banking system, with a dramatic tale that is interesting.

The film depicts universal themes such as fatherly love, desperation, and the sacrifices people are willing to make to protect their loved ones.

Directed by: Jerry Ossai
Produced by: Deyemi Okanlawon
Genre: Thriller
Released on: October 18, 2024. (Cinemas)
Language: English

Plot

Onari’s life takes a terrible turn in 3 Working Days when he sees his wife, Valerie, shot dead during an armed robbery that also hurts their son, Jack. Although Jack’s shooting is not shown to us directly, the film’s narrative context makes it clear that he is injured. In an era of cashless policies, Onari finds himself in a race against time to raise the money required for his son’s treatment when Valerie leaves and Jack becomes critically ill.

This approach, meant to modernize banking, is now becoming risky as digital payment failures force Onari to scramble for solutions. His desperation takes him to a chaotic bank scene, where he must deal with other citizens who are also striving against a crumbling system.

3 working days

During this chaos, Onari meets a helpful stranger who helps him get through the lines, but he still has to deal with more challenges inside the bank.The film provides a harsh critique of systemic corruption, contrasting the ease with which the privileged traverse the system with the difficulties faced by regular residents.

The fast-paced plot has a visually appealing and sensory presence, and it strives to develop tension using the ticking clock method, but the emotional impact is nevertheless very subdued. The limited investigation of Onari’s inner conflict, along with hasty scene transitions, reduces the intensity of the stakes faced by his character.

By allowing key moments and performances to linger, the film may have better depicted Onari’s desperation, helping the viewer feel the urgency of his situation more viscerally. At its core, the film examines the unwavering will of a father pushed to the brink, navigating a world that tries his every move.

If you are yet to watch the movie then you should visit the cinema, and enjoy the thrilling story of Onari quest in saving his son.

See also: “Onye Egwu” (2024) A film by Uche Jumbo

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