Ambivalent Review: A Tale Of Love, Infidelity And Choice

Here’s our Ambivalent Review! ‘Ambivalent’, a 2024 movie directed by Ekene Som Mekwunye delves into the life of Charlotte, an emotionally neglected wife who encounters a newfound affection with Ned, who is coincidentally an acquaintance of her past romantic interest and current client. Complicating matters, a health emergency emerges, prompting her to confront a pivotal decision between nurturing her burgeoning relationship with Ned and the prospect of reuniting with her estranged husband.

Plot

In ‘Ambivalent,’ viewers are drawn into the tumultuous life of Charlotte, a woman grappling with emotional dissatisfaction in her marriage to the ever-absent Obinna, whose career as a tech executive keeps him physically distant. 

As Charlotte navigates the complexities of her marriage, her professional ambitions lead her to cross paths with Ned Williams, a client and an old flame harbouring long-standing feelings for her. Employed at RAILS Limited, Charlotte seizes the chance to secure a deal with Allison & Co., potentially advancing to the position of senior manager. Engaging in the project facilitated Charlotte’s exploration of a newfound romance with Ned, resulting in her infidelity towards Obinna. Nonetheless, the specific details regarding the project they collaborated on, as well as the nature of RAILS Limited, remained undisclosed throughout the movie.

As the affair progresses, Obinna attempts to be present for Charlotte, albeit with difficulty. Meanwhile, her connection with Ned deepens. Subsequently, Charlotte makes the decision to divorce Obinna. However, upon returning home and engaging in a heated argument, she discloses her involvement with Ned. The argument takes a poignant turn when Charlotte is diagnosed with kidney failure, prompting Ned to selflessly donate his kidney. 

As Charlotte acclimatises to her newfound health and well-being, she faces a pivotal choice between pursuing a future with Ned or maintaining her commitment to her husband, Obinna. Amidst this internal struggle, Obinna opens up about his past, shedding light on the reasons behind his frequent absences and work-centric lifestyle.

However, when Ned prioritises his work once again, informing Charlotte of his imminent travel due to an urgent business matter, it serves as a catalyst for her decision-making process. Ultimately, Charlotte reaches a profound realisation during her journey to meet Ned, prompting her to make a surprising and impactful choice: to remain with her husband.

Cast

Gabriel Afolayan delivers an impeccable portrayal of Obinna, infusing the character with depth and authenticity that captivates the audience.

 Meanwhile, Derby Frankson skillfully portrays Charlotte’s inner turmoil, expertly capturing the complexity of her emotions as she navigates a clandestine romance with Ned while remaining bound by her marital ties.

 Ambivalent also features Aeries Umusu as Ned and others.

Language

The movie predominantly features English as the primary language of communication.

‘Ambivalent’ presents a familiar tale of infidelity, yet fails to inject it with the necessary vitality and surprises expected from such narratives. The execution could have been significantly improved with stronger performances from the cast, but the lack of depth in the plot hindered their ability to engage and captivate the audience. Regrettably, the plot lacks the thrilling twists and turns that would elevate it to a more entertaining level, ultimately leaving viewers wanting more.