Miss PJ Movie Review: A Blend Of Thrills And Social Commentary

In a noteworthy development for Nigeria’s film industry, the trailer for Miss PJ, a thrilling drama set in Ibadan, was unveiled on November 15, 2024. Written, produced, and directed by James Abinibi of Rockbottom Flix, the film aims to deliver a poignant exploration of girl-child empowerment while addressing critical societal issues.

Plot

At the heart of the narrative is Patience, an NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) member who is posted to Otitodun Grammar School in a remote village. What begins as an ordinary teaching assignment soon turns into a haunting investigation after a young girl is found dead under mysterious and brutal circumstances. Despite the chilling nature of the death, the school principal remains tight-lipped, unable or unwilling to offer any explanation.

As Patience, affectionately called Miss PJ, begins her work at the school, she becomes a source of inspiration for the village girls, encouraging them to pursue education. One of the students, the narrator of the story, develops a close bond with her, and through this relationship, we begin to understand the village’s deeply rooted issues.

Soon, a terrifying pattern emerges: a native doctor is found receiving used sanitary pads from a mystery man, and soon after, they begin to experience severe and inexplicable bleeding from their mouths and private parts. Alarmed by the situation, Miss PJ reports the deaths to the police, sparking a chain of events that uncovers deeper corruption and a sinister ritualistic plot.

The story takes a tragic turn when Bisi, a student and the only child of an overprotective father, falls victim to the same affliction and dies after reaching out to Miss PJ for help. Her father, devastated by her loss, curses those responsible, setting off a deadly chain of vengeance. As the police investigation intensifies, further secrets come to light, including the discovery that Bisi had lied about the origins of her phone, raising further suspicions.

The true horror of the plot is revealed when the mysterious killer is shown to be part of a ritualistic scheme to collect the blood of seven virgin girls in order to gain power and ascend to kingship. As the deadline approaches and the killer’s desperation grows, the tension builds to a gripping climax.

Cast

Miss PJ features Nollywood stars like Bimbo Ademoye, Sola Sobowale, Charles Okocha, Sanni Musa Danja, Chris Iheuwa, Racheal Okonkwo, Ibrahim Chatta, Kiitan Bukola, Jumoke Ajadi, Kunle Afolayan.

Language

The film’s use of Pidgin, English, and predominantly Yoruba dialogue adds authenticity and richness to the storytelling, reflecting the diverse linguistic landscape of Nigeria.

Summary

The film highlights the dangerous intersection of superstition, exploitation, and gender inequality, with girls being treated as commodities in a brutal ritual. Miss PJ’s efforts to empower the girls through education stand in stark contrast to the oppressive forces at play, making her character a symbol of resistance against both tradition and corruption.

Visually, the film captures the rural landscape of Ibadan, immersing the audience in the environment where these tragic events unfold. The use of natural settings and moody lighting enhances the tension and suspense. 

While Miss PJ tackles compelling themes and boasts an intriguing premise, it ultimately fails to fully engage the audience. Despite its dramatic buildup, the film struggles to maintain suspense throughout its duration. The plot unfolds with numerous twists and developments, yet the tension never truly reaches a peak. In fact, by the time the film reaches its final moments, the conclusion feels underwhelming and lacking in substance, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment.