The Other Side of the Bridge review highlights strong performances, superb audio, and powerful storytelling in this Nollywood boxing drama
Nollywood’s latest boxing drama The Other Side of the Bridge, directed by Fiyin Gambo and starring Demi Banwo, Femi Branch, Ireti Doyle, Teniola Aladese, and Tobi Bakre, has drawn attention for its technical depth and emotional storytelling.
The film follows a former teenage boxing champion who enters a high-stakes competition to save his trainer’s struggling gym.
He is forced into a fierce rivalry with another fighter from a difficult background, with both men confronting personal struggles that shape their destinies.
One of the most striking elements of the production is its makeup design, particularly the realistic portrayal of an eye injury on Tobi Bakre’s character, Farouk.
The effect stood out for its unusual precision in Nollywood filmmaking, though some fight injuries were considered exaggerated in certain scenes.
The film also delivers impressive sound design, especially in its outdoor sequences.
A graveyard conversation between Ireti Doyle’s character and Femi Branch was highlighted for its natural audio layering, avoiding heavy musical masking often used in similar productions.
A pub scene featuring Tobi Bakre and Olarotimi Fakunle also stood out for its authentic ambient sound and dialogue clarity.
The movie further explores class disparity through contrasting settings, from the upscale environment of Ikoyi to the densely populated streets of Mushin.
The narrative uses these locations to underline the characters’ different social realities and motivations within the sport.
Performances by Tobi Bakre and Olarotimi Fakunle were particularly praised, with their on-screen chemistry adding emotional weight to the story.
heir interactions bring depth to the film’s central conflict and personal struggles.
Set design, lighting, and camera movement were also noted as strong points.
The boxing scenes were shot with dynamic energy, creating an immersive experience that places viewers inside the action.
The inclusion of commentary by Lasisi Elenu added an additional layer of engagement during fight sequences.
Beyond its technical strengths, the film carries a strong emotional core, focusing on resilience, sacrifice, and hope.
Farouk’s personal battles, including financial hardship and family pressures, add depth to the storyline.
The Other Side of the Bridge stands out as a refreshing and ambitious Nollywood production, earning an 8/10 rating for its storytelling, performances, and technical execution.