DOCUMENTARY REVIEW: AWON BOYZ

Yesterday I watched the most talked-about documentary in Nigeria currently, Awon Boyz, which tells the story of eight area boys in Lagos, Nigeria.

Awon Boyz highlights the ever-worsening case of thuggery in Lagos, the economical capital of Nigeria. It gives a deeper insight into the lives of these area boys who roam the streets of Lagos.

The 38-minute documentary showcases another side to these street thugs unbeknown to many. In the documentary, the area boys talk about their lives before hitting the streets.

Many of these young men had dreams and aspirations--many still do. It was refreshing, to say the least, to discover a humane side to these thugs.

One of the major highlights for me watching this documentary was the family discussion. Despite their position in life these young men still want the best for their families.

The documentary was produced by Zero Degrees and directed by Tolulope Itegboje. It premiered on Netflix on April 14, 2021, two years after its initial release.

It took over a month to shoot the documentary. Awon Boyz was shot in Monkey Village, Oshodi, and the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja.

Here is a link to the movie on Netflix.