Click Click Bang (2022) is a Kenyan film that ambitiously tries to blend comedy with the gritty realities of urban life, but its execution leaves much to be desired. Here's a comprehensive review:
Plot and Themes: At its core, Click Click Bang follows Kev, a talented footballer whose career falters, leading him into a world of crime to support his terminally ill sister. The movie attempts to weave together themes of corruption, ambition, and the harsh life in Nairobi's ghettos. While the premise is promising, the execution feels somewhat clichéd, with the storyline often falling back on familiar tropes of crime dramas. The plot takes time to develop, with some scenes feeling unnecessary or disconnected from the main narrative.
Performances: The cast includes notable Kenyan actors, with Nyakundi Isaboke and Basil Mungai delivering standout performances. Their acting adds a layer of authenticity and emotion to their characters, providing some of the film's more memorable moments. However, not all performances are equally compelling, and the heavy use of profanity by some characters can feel excessive, potentially overshadowing the acting talent.
Direction and Visuals: Directed by Philip Karanja and Michael Munyoki, Click Click Bang boasts some visually appealing aspects. The choice of locations, costumes, and music are well-suited to the setting, providing a vivid backdrop for the story. However, the direction sometimes lacks finesse, with pacing issues making the film feel longer than its runtime. The humor, intended to lighten the mood, doesn't always land, feeling forced and detracting from the dramatic elements.
Music and Soundtrack: The soundtrack is one of the film's strengths, incorporating local Kenyan music that enhances the cultural authenticity and atmosphere of the movie. It's well-integrated into pivotal scenes, helping to elevate the emotional beats of the narrative.
Critical Reception: Audience reviews are mixed, with some appreciating the attempt at telling a local story with local talent. On IMDb, the film has a rating of 7.2, indicating a generally favorable reception among those who appreciate its cultural context. However, critics have pointed out the overuse of profane language, the slow plot development, and the occasionally disjointed storytelling. There's a consensus that while the film has heart and showcases Kenyan cinema, it could benefit from tighter scripting and editing.
Conclusion: Click Click Bang is a film with a lot of potential but falls short in fully realizing it. It's commendable for its attempt to portray the struggles and dreams within Nairobi's less privileged communities through a mix of comedy and drama. The performances, especially by the leads, are a highlight, but the narrative structure and pacing issues prevent it from being a standout film. For fans of local Kenyan cinema or those interested in narratives that explore the intersection of sports, crime, and social commentary, Click Click Bang might be worth watching, but with an understanding that it's not without flaws.
