Re-emerging: The Jews Of Nigeria, a comprehensive documentary from 2012, offers a deep and thought-provoking exploration of one of the lesser known facets of African history - the existence and impact of Judaism in Nigeria. Crafted by Director and Producer, Jeff L. Lieberman, the film unravels the untold stories of the Igbo people who believe themselves to be the descendants of the lost tribes of Israel.

The feature-length, 95-minute long film commences by providing valuable insights about the Igbo people - one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa, detailing their customs, beliefs, and lifestyle. Amid the Igbo’s rich cultural tapestry, a substantial section has come to adopt and identify with Judaism, believing themselves to be of Jewish origin. They proclaim they're not merely converts but genetically Jewish, a result of migration from Israel about 2,000 years ago.

The film employs interviews, historical verifications, and on-the-ground encounters to establish the amazing commitment of the Nigerian Jews to their faith against varied odds. An interesting narrative of religion, identity, and history, the documentary brings to light the circumstances that led these people to delve into their presumed Jewish roots, their struggles amidst societal and governmental pressure and their efforts at securing recognition as a legitimate part of the global Jewish community.

As the name suggests, Re-emerging: The Jews Of Nigeria also pinpoints the rejuvenation of Jewish culture among the Igbo people. This re-emergence is largely due to decades of Igbo-Jewish scholars and rabbis educating the communities about Jewish traditions, religions, and practices. The dedication and resilience shown by this community are profoundly highlighted through powerful visuals and stories.

The narrative is woven around Shmuel, a Nigerian undergraduate student who identifies as Jewish even though raised as a Christian. Shmuel uses the internet and books to educate himself on Judaism, travels to the northern part of Nigeria to celebrate Passover with fellow Igbo Jews, and further explore this unusual blend of traditional Igbo and Jewish cultures. This captivating journey becomes a significant vehicle to convey the meticulous research pulled off by Lieberman, addressing mystifying questions around the authenticity of the Igbo-Jewish connection, their struggles, persistence, and achievements.

The historical undercurrents explored in Re-emerging: The Jews Of Nigeria, further weave in segues of colonial influence and religious politics, enabling a broader interactive discourse about identity, faith, and globalization. The enthralling documentary also includes opinions from world-renowned historians, scholars, geneticists, and rabbis to maintain a balanced narrative throughout that invites both intrigue and a sense of understanding.

The film does not approach its subjects from an outsider's perspective, but rather takes a journey with them, respecting and empathizing with their struggles and sharing in their aspirations. It does not aim to definitively affirm the Igbo Jewish identity, but to explore and share their unique perspective and the community they have created.

Visually, the film offers an engaging tour of Nigerian living, from city life to rural areas with mesmerizing landscapes playing backdrops to compelling narratives. The musical score cleverly employs a rich blend of traditional Igbo and Jewish melodies, further enhancing the viewing experience.

Moving far beyond being just a documentary about an eccentric religious community in Nigeria, 'Re-emerging: The Jews Of Nigeria' is also a testament to the universal human experience of surviving against adversity, maintaining faith, and constantly seeking purpose and identity. This film is a tool to initiate thoughtful dialogues around religion and identity, presenting a unique perspective on Jewish diaspora communities, and providing a much-needed acknowledgment of the diversified reality of Jewish life and tradition outside the mainstream communities. It challenges perceptions of what it means to be Jewish and African while drawing attention to the way history and faith intertwines in defining our identities.

Overall, Re-emerging: The Jews Of Nigeria is indeed an influential cinematic achievement that elegantly bridges the gap between documentary, religious study and exploring the concept of identity. It's a film that impels not just fascination, but also respect for a mainly unknown Jewish community resolutely upholding their faith in the face of adversity.