The Trade (2023)

Review Team

4/5

The Trade is an intense portrayal of crime that shines a light on the harrowing realities of kidnapping in Nigeria. Directed by Jadesola Osiberu, the film successfully blends a gripping narrative with strong performances. The character of Eric, the cunning kidnapper, is both fascinating and repulsiv ... Show more >> The Trade is an intense portrayal of crime that shines a light on the harrowing realities of kidnapping in Nigeria. Directed by Jadesola Osiberu, the film successfully blends a gripping narrative with strong performances. The character of Eric, the cunning kidnapper, is both fascinating and repulsive, drawing viewers into his morally ambiguous world. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to build effectively throughout the film. The cinematography captures the stark contrasts of the Nigerian landscape, enhancing the film's emotional weight. While the film does delve into dark themes, it also provokes thought about justice and morality. Overall, The Trade is a compelling watch that offers both thrills and reflections on human nature. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Trade attempts to tackle a heavy subject matter, but it sometimes feels like it bites off more than it can chew. While the story of a notorious kidnapper is intriguing, the film's execution leaves something to be desired. The performances are solid, especially from the lead, who portrays Eric wi ... Show more >> The Trade attempts to tackle a heavy subject matter, but it sometimes feels like it bites off more than it can chew. While the story of a notorious kidnapper is intriguing, the film's execution leaves something to be desired. The performances are solid, especially from the lead, who portrays Eric with a chilling charisma. However, the pacing drags at times, making it a chore to sit through certain scenes. The cinematography is visually appealing, but it often feels overshadowed by the film's uneven storytelling. Despite its flaws, The Trade is worth a watch for those interested in true crime narratives, though it may not leave a lasting impression. Show less