Reviewed By Ajibare Abioye
Hey folks! How are you all doing? You’re welcome to this spoiler-free review of the latest Mount Zion movie, Burning Coles, which was screened on the 2nd of September, 2022 at the Drama Ministers’ Power Night. Pending its release on YouTube, I suggest you read the novel of the same title, which you can get here: ellaswritings.com
So, what’s my view of Burning Coles? One thing you can be certain of is that it is a quality production that is sure to bless individuals and families. The first thing that stood out for me is that the novel’s story written by Emmanuela Mike-Bamiloye was re-written as a screenplay not by one, but two talented screenwriters. The very thought of having drama ministers as Damilola Mike-Bamiloye and Goodness Adegbola writing the script for this movie has a gospel movie reviewer like me licking my lips at the prospect of such a combined effort. I discussed in my midyear review of 2022 gospel movies the benefits of more specialisations and collaborations; so, it’s an absolute delight to witness this first-of-its-kind partnership in gospel film production. Without giving away details, one major result of this is that there are multiple twists that make for a more interesting watch.
So, what’s my view of Burning Coles? One thing you can be certain of is that it is a quality production that is sure to bless individuals and families. The first thing that stood out for me is that the novel’s story written by Emmanuela Mike-Bamiloye was re-written as a screenplay not by one, but two talented screenwriters. The very thought of having drama ministers as Damilola Mike-Bamiloye and Goodness Adegbola writing the script for this movie has a gospel movie reviewer like me licking my lips at the prospect of such a combined effort. I discussed in my midyear review of 2022 gospel movies the benefits of more specialisations and collaborations; so, it’s an absolute delight to witness this first-of-its-kind partnership in gospel film production. Without giving away details, one major result of this is that there are multiple twists that make for a more interesting watch.
There is something this film does with its characters – it unveils and links them in ways that serve as callbacks, which make movies more immersive. There’s a character reveal done in Burning Coles for a cameo that I think gospel filmmakers can learn from. It was a casting choice and camera shot that elicited loud applause from the audience at the premiere. These are subtle elements that give a production that bit more lift. Likewise, for those of you familiar with movies from Free Gift International, you’ll be pleased to see a certain known actress feature here. The young actors in the movie also pulled their weight to make the movie engaging. As usual, the scores were on point, and I identified at least, two unique background tunes, one of which came in fully as a beautiful end credits soundtrack by Jay-Mikee.
Burning Coles is a family movie that does very well to address relatable issues that are not uncommon in this Computer Age, giving practical solutions to the ills that plague the marriage union. As my wife put it, God always places an intercessor in every family. If you’re a child of God, identify that other intercessor and team up. Don’t allow the devil destroy your family with bitterness, strife and envy. In the end, let Christ win.
Alright, we’ve come to the end of this review. I’ll probably do a more detailed discussion on Burning Coles when it comes to YouTube.
Till then, stay blessed.