The House of Secrets, a compelling Psychological Thriller, attracted an avalanche of ovations at the private screening.
The House of Secrets, a compelling Psychological Thriller, attracts an avalanche of ovations at the private screening.
“The unique thing about this story is not the story, it’s actually how we tell the story.” Says Niyi Akinmolayan, in an exclusive interview with our team after the private screening of The House of Secrets yesterday 29th of June. Niyi, the director who also doubled as the writer of the new film, further mirrored one of his underlying philosophy on what a great film does to the viewer: “If you have not watched a film more than once, then, it has not achieved what it is meant to achieve.”
The atmosphere at the private screening was intermittently interrupted by an avalanche of applause. The cinema hall had all its seats and stairs occupied by film enthusiasts and lovers. And of course, this ovation was well deserved. The degree of intentionality in the story crafting is impeccable; the sound design, camera movement, lightning, the use of colors and shadows, etc. The plot twist got people screaming at intervals.
The House of Secrets is a movie set in 1999 and 2023 respectively. Arrayed with a brilliant set of actors that excellently animated their respective roles. As Niyi unequivocally stated, “you can’t make this kind of film with bad actors. You can’t make this kind of film with entertainers.”
The House of Secrets is a psychological thriller, sandwiched between love and politics.
When asked why he embarked on such a genre, without mincing words, Niyi stated, “because I’m a filmmaker. And eventually as a filmmaker you exhaust the story you tell, and you want to tell more stories.”
The screening was glamoured with respected Nollywood actors who perfectly suited the role they were cast for: Kate Henshaw, Funlola Aofiyebi-Raimi, Najite Dede, Femi Jacobs, Shawn Faqua, Efe Irele, Gbugbemi Ejeye, Taye Arimoro, Anee Icha, and Emeka Nwagbaraocha.
The actors that were present at the premiere were equally excited. The testimony of Efe Irele who played the younger self of Najite Dede and Emeka Nwagbaraocha affirmed the dexterity of the director. Efe who played Serah said in excitement to our correspondent, “Mr. Niyi is such an amazing director, he makes you feel so comfortable and confident.” Emeka, who played Daniel as well couldn’t contain his joy after the screening. “The excellent directing and the cinematography really stood out for me.” he said.
Back in March, you will recall I wrote an article about Anthill Studios and its Organizational Culture of Excellence.
The truth is, Anthill’s culture of excellence has always produced an output of excellence. As the saying goes, “An apple does not fall far from the tree.”
It’s coming out exclusively on Prime Video today, 30th of June. Do well to see it.
More reviews are coming…
