Dolapo Is Fine

Dolapo Is Fine is a remarkable short film released in 2020. This drama set in the United Kingdom is directed by Ethosheia Hylton and co-written by Joan Iyiola and Chibundu Onuzo. The film stars Doyin Ajiboye in the lead role of Dolapo, with other key performances by Luke Gasper and Joan Iyiola.

The narrative of the film is centred around Dolapo, a young black woman on the brink of adult life. She is preparing to depart from her familiar world, the prestigious British boarding school where she's spent her formative years, to enter the daunting sphere of adulthood. The premise of the story masterfully encapsulates the struggle that many young minorities face when laying the groundwork for their futures.

Doyin Ajiboye delivers a compelling performance as Dolapo. As the title character, Ajiboye is the heart of the film, bringing out the multi-dimensional personality of Dolapo with nuance and authenticity. Luke Gasper, who plays one of Dolapo's school mates, is equally impressive. His portrayal of a typical young adult caught up in the web of societal norms and prejudices grapples with complex issues of identity and acceptance which resonate with all audiences.

One of the gripping aspects of the film is the societal pressure Dolapo experiences to adapt and 'fit in'. She learns that her natural African hair is viewed as unruly and unacceptable by some individuals, a harsh reality that is unfortunately familiar for many black women worldwide. Throughout the film, Dolapo grapples with the decision of whether to straighten her hair, recognisable as a metaphorical crossroads between embracing her identity or succumbing to reductive stereotypical beauty standards.

Joan Iyiola delivers a strong performance alongside Ajiboye and Gasper. She portrays the character Miss. Gold, a straight-talking career advisor with a distinct approach to 'guiding' students to their logical next steps. Through her character, the film subtly unravels the deeply rooted institutional racism and bias present within society, adding immense value to the overarching narrative.

The film underscores several thought-provoking themes, exploring institutional racism, cultural displacement, and individual identity exploration. The narrative is expertly interspersed with moments of lightheartedness and warmth; it beautifully balances light and heavy thematic elements, making it a gently compelling watch for audiences.

Dolapo Is Fine showcases not only the struggle of assimilation and acceptance but also the power and importance of self-love and self-acceptance. Dolapo's journey takes her to the cusp of adulthood, where she dares to confront societal expectations, ultimately realising her worth just as she is.

The direction of Ethosheia Hylton in Dolapo Is Fine is marked by sensitivity and astuteness, gracefully depicting the complex emotions and decisions involved in the journey to self-discovery and acceptance. Hylton extensively uses visual metaphors to delve deep into the theme of individualism and self-acceptance, making the film visually compelling and narratively poignant.

Dolapo Is Fine is a film that emotes universal themes of identity, acceptance, and the struggle of fitting into societal norms. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate films that unravel meaningful conversations and dialogues. The cohesive narrative, combined with engaging performances and deliberate, impactful direction, makes this short film a memorable cinematic experience.

Through relatable characters and impactful storytelling, Dolapo Is Fine invites viewers to think, feel, and reflect. The film delivers a powerful message: that 'being fine' is not about adhering to societal norms but about embracing and accepting who we truly are. This poignant narrative, brilliantly rendered and brought to life by a talented cast and crew, marks Dolapo Is Fine as an important addition to the genre of drama that tackles real, raw, and relevant topics.

To sum it up, Dolapo Is Fine is more than just a short film—it's a bold, revelatory statement about individuality, societal expectations, and the courage it takes to be true to oneself in a world where conforming is often viewed as the norm. The brilliance of this film lies in its unapologetic exploration of challenging themes wrapped in an engaging narrative, making Dolapo Is Fine a significant and impactful watch.