*a 3-minute-read*
Through the view of martial arts, we learn how a young boy is introduced to a lifestyle of finding yourself in one’s craft, and how a “Kimono” can represent more than just the traditional attire of a culture.
I had the pleasure of viewing a private screening of the short film Kimono Kid, directed by Josef Adamu and Seyi Akinlade, shadowing a young Nigerian boy embarking on a journey of martial arts, growing into his manhood, and re-defining himself in a craft his father once loved.
The screening was hosted at TIFF Lightbox in Toronto, the city where both directors studied together at the University of Toronto, so it was great to see them give back to the community once again (shoutout to my Nigerian brothers).
Without spoiling the film for anyone who may watch it in the future, I wanted to highlight some interesting concepts I felt truly brought the film together. An ideal watch for anyone who has battled depression, tried to overcome setbacks, or expressed an interest in self-improvement, Kimono Kid offers insight on identity, development, and liberation, in less than 30 minutes.
Identity
Echoing throughout the film, the quote “Wherever the mind goes, the body will follow” carefully illustrates the perspective of a young boy growing into his own.
At face value, we can revisit many decisions we make because of our identity. How we define ourselves sets a precedent for how we navigate our days and this film demonstrates how the protagonist goes through an ongoing battle of finding his individuality.
Through pain, suffering, and discipline, the main character channels his identity around those who have passed and those who are present. Using his foregoing agony as a catalyst for starting martial arts, and having someone in the present influence positive behaviour, the film emphasizes how the protagonist is on a journey wherein the outcome will dictate who he wants to be and how he wants to express himself to those around him.
Development
Development can be shown in a variety of ways, forcing us to adapt and place ourselves in uncomfortable situations. The film composes a story based around maturation, offering a perspective of how adaptation can look in African culture.
For any boy, but with the added significance of being an African boy, the stage of boyhood to manhood is never a smooth transition (if you know, you know). Having a father figure can be instrumental to having success at the end of the road, and learning from the teachings and disciplines of someone who has lived many years before you can give you the edge you need to overcome hindrances. But having this privilege taken away from him without any warning, the protagonist struggles to find where he belongs throughout the entirety of the film.
All is made known by the end, where you can see for yourself how self-development, although daunting, can lead you somewhere you never thought you would end up.
Liberation
The meaning of liberation should never be taken lightly. While the film may not necessarily show you all aspects of liberation, it is clear there is a continuous theme of how one can reach a state of liberation and work their way up from there. From a narrative immersed in religion, martial arts, and believing in one’s potential, we can see these are elements anyone can use to find a sense of freedom in their lives.
From start to finish, we can enter the mind of the protagonist, and his reflection process allows us to feel like he’s unlocking his potential. You will have to watch the film to see how this all unfolds. I have done my part in intriguing you in 800 words or less, so it’s my time to end my take on it.
On to the Next
It’s difficult to release many emotions, themes, and lessons in a short film and Kimono Kid effortlessly captures all three. A cohesive story where clarity and narration guide you through the lens of a young Nigerian boy, the directors do an outstanding job illustrating how Africans can express themselves through the unconventional medium of martial arts in the city of Lagos. Hopefully, a feature is in the works, because people need to see more of this story unfold.
I hope you have the opportunity to see this film one day—it will be worth your time. Thank you for reading, share with a friend, and answer the question below!
“How can one find success through failure?”
Timeless Thoughts 