By Bukola Amoboye
Since her successes with movies like Breaded Life, Sista, Momiwa, etc, Biodun Stephen has become a household name in the Nigerian film industry.
In Muri and Ko, she takes audiences on a thrilling yet humorous ride through the unpredictable life of a petty thief who accidentally stumbles into a much larger criminal operation. The film, led by Kunle Remi in an uncharacteristically gritty role, shines a spotlight on the complexities of survival in the slums, loyalty, and the odd friendships that arise in the most unexpected circumstances.
Plot Summary
Kunle Remi plays Muri, a small-time hustler who survives by lifting purses and bags from the unsuspecting. His foray into petty crime takes a sharp turn when he’s introduced to the underground world of stealing and reselling car parts. What starts as a risky side hustle escalates when, on a routine job, Muri attempts to steal a car’s side mirror but ends up stealing an entire car instead.

Things spiral further when he discovers a young boy named Cole (Ko) inside the stolen car.
The boy, a popular face of children’s beverages and cereals, is also the son of a reality TV star. After he was reported kidnapped, his parents offered a ten million naira reward to anyone with information as to his whereabouts.
As various players become involved with everyone out to get the boy for personal gain, Muri becomes an unlikely protector. His relationship with Cole evolves into a partnership of necessity as they navigate a chaotic series of events that eventually lead them to the police.
What We Loved
- Performances
Kunle Remi delivers a standout performance. Known for his charming roles, he steps out of his comfort zone, embodying the rugged, streetwise Muri with unexpected finesse. His portrayal is gritty, raw, and, at times, deeply touching, particularly in scenes that explore Muri’s growing attachment to the boy and his sense of responsibility towards him.
Fiyinfoluwa Asenuga, in the role of Cole (Ko), also shines as the sharp-mouthed and witty “aje butter” who gives Muri more trouble than he signed up for. Their bromance held the movie together and was what kept the movie going as long as it did.
Other actors in the play include Bisola Aiyeola, Bukunmi Adeaga-ilori (Kiekie), Femi Jacobs, Bucci Franklin, Gloria Young, and many others.

- Cinematography and Setting
The film makes excellent use of its locations, highlighting the contrasts between the slums and more upscale areas. The authenticity of the slum setting adds to the film’s grounded feel, painting a vivid picture of the world Muri inhabits. The cinematography is more than decent, enhancing the storytelling and tension throughout the film.

A Few Reservations
We recognise a similar plot of an unlikely kidnapper/victim bonding in Ramsey Nouah’s Tokunbo, which was released on Netflix only a few weeks ago. However, they both follow the same path of poor resolutions, with both kidnappers seemingly going scot-free.
Also, there was little to look forward to as the movie became a bore at some point, and we couldn’t wait for it to be over.
There was also hardly any chemistry between Bisola Aiyeola and Bucci Franklin, who played Cole’s mum and dad, respectively. Although their relationship wasn’t the film’s central focus, it was underdeveloped. The trauma of their son’s kidnapping was clearly meant to bring them closer, but the storyline felt rushed and lacked depth.

However, we will maintain that although Muri and Ko might not be Biodun Stephen’s finest work, it offered an engaging mix of crime, humour, and unlikely friendships.
The plot may have leaned on some familiar tropes, but the execution keeps things fresh and exciting.
In all, Biodun Stephen does a commendable job of balancing the film’s darker moments with humour and warmth. Again, it’s not a movie to take too seriously or expect much from, but you’ll definitely have moments you’ll enjoy.