by Blessed Momoh

Nollywood thriller “3 Working Days”, directed and produced by Jerry Ossai and released in cinemas October 18, offers an intense and emotionally charged experience with a strong ensemble cast that includes Deyemi Okanlawon, Nancy Isime, Femi Adebayo, Linda Osifo, among others. The movie explores themes of desperation, crime, and the consequences of unforeseen circumstances, delivering a story that’s both gripping and relevant.

At the heart of “3 Working Days” is a desperate father, played by Deyemi Okanlawon, who faces mounting pressures to provide for his family amid Nigeria’s economic crisis. With nowhere else to turn, he devises a plan to rob a bank intending to hold staff and customers hostage until he can force the bank to complete a delayed transaction. However, the situation quickly escalates when he discovers that a more dangerous gang is also targeting the same bank at the same time. This unexpected clash between the father’s plan and the gang’s more violent intentions turns a desperate heist into a life and death struggle, creating a suspenseful and unpredictable situation.

The official trailer hinted at the film’s high-stakes drama, showing scenes of intense confrontations, raw emotion, and rapid action. The preview highlights the talents of Deyemi Okanlawon, known for his dynamic performances in “Blood Sisters” and “Omo Ghetto”, as he takes on the challenging role of a father pushed to the brink. Nancy Isime, who has made a name for herself with her versatility in drama, romance, and action, also plays a key role. The chemistry between these actors, coupled with a strong supporting cast, sets the stage for a film that balances intense action with deep emotional resonance.

The director and producer of the movie, Jerry Ossai, is a seasoned filmmaker with a reputation for creating engaging stories that reflect social realities. He has previously worked on successful productions such as “Love in a Pandemic”, “Breath of Life”, “A Naija Christmas”, and “Banana Island Ghost”. With “3 Working Days”, Ossai blends entertainment with commentary on Nigeria’s socio-economic struggles, exploring how far individuals might go when faced with hardship. His collaboration with Bleeding Arts Production ensures high quality cinematography and production design, making the film visually compelling.

“3 Working Days” delves into themes that are all too familiar for many Nigerians, such as economic hardship, sacrifice, and the pressures of providing for one’s family. These relatable themes, coupled with the tension of a bank robbery gone wrong, creates a narrative that aims to both entertain and provoke thought. The film explores the lengths to which people might go when their backs are against the wall and how the choices made in desperation can have unintended and far-reaching consequences.

The film combines the fast-paced action of a heist thriller with the emotional depth of a family drama. The story’s central conflict between two heist plans brings a unique twist to the narrative, with both robbers and hostages facing the consequences of the unpredictable collision. The dynamic storytelling is keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, as tension builds with each twist and turn.

Beyond its thrilling plot, “3 Working Days” also contributes to Nollywood’s growing reputation on the global stage. With the industry’s increasing international recognition, this film stands as a testament to the evolution of Nigerian cinema, offering a sophisticated blend of action and drama that meets global standards. The film’s potential to resonate with audiences both locally and abroad lies in its ability to capture the struggles of everyday life while delivering a gripping and memorable cinematic experience.

With its release on October 18, “3 Working Days” joins Nollywood’s standout films of the year. Its powerful performances, timely themes, and intense narrative leave a lasting impression on viewers, making it a must-watch for fans of Nigerian cinema and beyond.

Jerry Ossai and his team set high expectations and have delivered a film that not only entertains but also sparks conversations about resilience, survival, and the human spirit in challenging times.