You’re welcome to the final Fantalk article of 2020 where I’ll be letting you know my top 10 gospel movies in this year 2020; I apologize for not posting this article yesterday as intended. Before I go ahead, I need to make it clear that this is not to say those on this list are not good; quite the opposite. It was a pretty difficult list to come up with; I had to peruse the list repeatedly to ensure it was a “fair” reflection of my perception of the message and art of film making in these movies. In fact, I’ve realized that there’s no gospel movie that doesn’t have a good message to offer, irrespective of the quality of presentation. Also, this list is from the movies I’ve seen, which is not all, but quite a lot; actually, some movies were even released up until Christmas Day, like Homeless and Checkmate, which I wasn’t really able to consider before drafting this list. So, let’s just enjoy this countdown as we go through these wonderful movies released on YouTube in 2020.
10. WELCOME YESTERDAY
This movie has a catchy title which is also relevant to its content. The message in it is clear, which is that only in Christ can we say goodbye to negative lifestyles, curses and their consequences. Similarly, Jesus is the one that can change the vilest of offenders, like the hymn “To God be the Glory” says. The unique thing about Welcome Yesterday for me is that it belongs to the Crime/Mystery genre, but still preaches the gospel. A minor theme in this film which can also be found in some other films on this list shows the need for children of God to pray against being accused of crimes not committed.
9. KNOTTED
“Knotted” is a suspense-filled jigsaw puzzle of a movie that will keep you glued to your seat from the beginning to the end. It’s a good story with a twist, something I’ve come to know with Victor Olukoju movies; I love the way he writes stories. One thing I learnt from “Knotted” is that prayer changes the narrative of depression. It also shows the importance of seeking God’s face for a “correct” life partner.
8. SHACKLES 2
This movie ticked all the right boxes in what a sequel should be. It built on its Part 1 brilliantly in combining the familiar with the new, but it was made better with the twist to the story. The way it brings prominence to the new characters as well as taking us deeper into Prophetess Nbanise’s life to make a third part probable is exciting for me. As in the Part 1, all waiting couples are encouraged to trust in the Lord and I use this opportunity to pray that this time next year, all will have celebrations of fruitfulness in Jesus name. One encouraging movie to watch in this line is the Husband and Wives series “Waiters”. I’ll leave the link to it at the end of this article. The special effects were also well done, especially the appearing and disappearing; very well done.
7. MARY’S OPTION
This adaptation of the popular Bible story about Jesus, Martha, Mary and Lazarus was creatively and meaningfully applied. The cinematography by Kunle Adepoju was really nice, the picture quality was great and the acting by Kayode Owojori, Omolara Ayoola and Ayobami Abraham was commendable. The film addresses the core of our beings and makes us see that Jesus is the reason for our living. Many of us ask the question: “God, what would you have me do?” but “Mary’s Option” shows us that more than doing, or before the doing, God wants fellowship with us; He wants a restoration to that Genesis relationship where we’ll experience peace and rest. He wants you and me to sit at His feet, to be with Him, to know Him better, love Him more and become more like Him.
6. 12:45
So, so many things about 12:45 thrill me. The trailer – great, the poster picture – attractive, the title – catchy, the story – powerful, the cinematography – wonderful, the acting – graceful, and the music – melodious. 12:45 was quite a prototype for the complete package. The wisdom it offers for male ministers especially, should never be taken for granted. The importance of sincerity with one’s spouse cannot be overemphasized. I didn’t say this in my review of it but there was an implication that Fred and Sharon had been missing a bit of intimacy in their marriage; these things should not be overlooked, so that we would have the best in our homes and ministries. 12:45 is an enjoyable watching experience.
5. THE PRIME SUSPECT
I salute this movie for the mere endeavour of it. A whole lot of work went into this, right up to its release this year. I tell you, this mini-movie series had the potential for even much more; it was fantastic story writing by Sola Adeaga. It’s an example of an engaging gospel series. I recommend it strongly for your viewing pleasure and blessedness.
4. ONE STREET ONE SOUND
A bold attempt, OSOS is. Really great story; just when you thought it was done with it’s major theme, another comes up, and takes this movie up a notch. A powerful movie on both levels. The opening sequence comprised really good sound and establishment shots. Colourful, aesthetic stuff. I feel this movie correctly represents the struggles of many in this present world but does well to also provide and reference truths, examples and materials that would lead to deliverance. God bless Adeola Jerry Oluwagbemi for this movie.
3. ON STRIKE
This movie touched me so much; it was really well crafted. The car-chase scene, the different subplots and the grand plot and the way they all came together really hit it. Every aspect of this production was well done and the truth it shares should enable us accurately understand our service to God. This is a really, really powerful movie and it was topped up by a really good soundtrack.
2. ABATTOIR SEASON 1
Abattoir brought something really special to our screens on Sunday afternoons while it was on. We looked forward to each episode week after week. Great ministrations all round by the actors, cool cinematography. I can’t say enough about Season 1 of Abattoir. We wait in anticipation for the Season 2.
1. THE TRAIN
Sincerely, I was a little torn between Abattoir Season 1 and my eventual number one because they’re both special in their own ways, but I think overall, this one is just really amazing. My top movie in this year is The Train. It was such a blessing; I think that the biographical element of it, the fact that we can see Daddy Mike today, with all the phases he’s been in life, is what distinguishes it the most. I’ll be talking more on this in a Fantalk edition next year by God’s grace. You’ll enjoy watching The Train and surely be blessed by it.
Alright, so, we’ve come to the end of this top movies list. God bless all drama ministers all over the world for their labour in God’s vineyard. May the Lord continue to strengthen them for greater exploits in Jesus name, There were many other great movies this year but these are my top 10. Which are your favourites? Which ones did you like that are not on this list? Please let me know in the comments section. I’ve put the links to every movie mentioned here after the article.
My next article will be the review of Abejoye Season 4 Episode 2.
Till then, stay blessed. Happy New Year in advance!
You can watch the video of this article below :
Links to the movies:
MARY’S OPTION https://youtu.be/Spk6LaghiCY
ABATTOIR SEASON 1 https://youtu.be/1wP5nyzzlcE (Episode 1. Other episodes on DMB YouTube channel)
12:45 https://youtu.be/egXtAwSlTK8
THE TRAIN https://youtu.be/5mFvb62VMkc
OSOS https://youtu.be/yIn1huI7g84
THE PRIME SUSPECT https://youtu.be/vY19QK2bExc
WELCOME YESTERDAY https://youtu.be/_eY3_gipPyM
SHACKLES 2 https://youtu.be/T-cFbuHNTxE
ON STRIKE https://youtu.be/DJ508kts1Bw
KNOTTED https://youtu.be/bnBoaNUlpXc
Husband and Wives series “Waiters”
https://youtu.be/KCw9VxJG-30 (Episode 1. Other episodes on the same channel)