Watch The Arbitration

The Arbitration is a Nigerian legal drama film released in 2016. The movie revolves around the story of Gbenga (played by OC Ukeje), who is a successful entrepreneur in the technology industry. However, Gbenga is accused of sexual harassment by one of his female employees, Dara (played by Adesua Etomi). The case is brought to arbitration, where Gbenga, Dara, and other witnesses provide their testimonies. The proceedings are presided over by the arbitrator, Funlayo Johnson (played by Sola Fosudo), who is a seasoned legal practitioner with many years of experience. As the case unravels, the audience is taken through a series of flashbacks that shed light on the events leading up to the accusation. It becomes apparent that Gbenga and Dara had a consensual relationship in the past, and their professional relationship had turned sour. But as the evidence is presented, the lines between what is true and untrue, who is telling the truth and who is lying start to blur. The audience is kept on its toes to build its opinion until the end of the arbitration, and until the truth is finally unveiled. There's no clear-cut resolution, leaving the conclusion open to interpretation. The acting performances are notable, with OC Ukeje and Adesua Etomi delivering strong performances. Ukeje's portrayal of Gbenga captures the arrogance of a successful entrepreneur who is used to being in control, while Etomi's Dara is more vulnerable but equally strong-willed. The supporting cast, including Fiyin Adebayo, Bimbo Ademoye and Bunmi Ajakaiye, delivers the necessary comic relief, often interjecting humor into serious moments of the arbitration. One of the highlights of the movie is its commentary on sexual harassment and consent in the workplace. Through the testimony of Gbenga, Dara, and other witnesses, the movie raises the question of how blurred lines can be in a consensual relationship that has gone sour. The moral ambiguity and vulnerability of some situations that might lead to consent are also discussed. Another remarkable aspect of the movie is its use of cinematography to complement the story-telling. The flashbacks are presented in sepia tones, which creates a nostalgic and more emotional impact of the scenes while the present storyline is presented in a chiaroscuro modern style that reinforces a sharp contrast in the present tense of the events. In conclusion, The Arbitration is a thought-provoking movie that raises critical topics involving legal and moral issues with the workplace, relationships, and sexual harassment. Brilliant acting performances, effective storytelling, and strong dialogue make it worth watching, and it's an exceptional addition to Nigerian cinema. The movie manages to balance a serious topic with a good balance of humor, which makes the watching experience enjoyable.