Should You Watch 'Behind the Glass'?

Director Monsurah (The Mansu) Alli-Oluwafuyi and I first met at a Bristol-based film event a few months ago, where we connected over our mutual love of cinema and our shared Nigerian heritage. I’m always eager to meet people in Bristol/the South West who are passionate about film, but as a Nigerian who has also lived back home, I was especially excited to connect with Monsurah.

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It gave me a chance to reconnect with the modern film landscape of my own culture and update my perception of Nigerian cinema, which has evolved significantly since my time in Naij when the industry was in a much earlier stage.

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So naturally, when I was invited to watch her short film Behind the Glass, I couldn’t have been more excited. And now that I’ve seen it, I’m incredibly happy to report that it was well worth the watch. Let’s talk about why.

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Production & Direction

The film delivers high-quality production across the board, with Nigerian culture seamlessly woven into every facet of the film, from wardrobe and settings to the story and the script. It’s beautifully lit, with the night-time shots standing out in particular for their clarity and atmospheric, vibrant lighting.

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The direction is skilful and deliberate, subtly using the script and flashbacks to both add context to the story and build tension and anticipation. At the same time, an emotional connection is established between the characters and viewers through the story and performances.

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All these elements come together to deliver a high-quality short film with genuine impact that's sure to stick with viewers long after the credits roll.

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Performances

The cast gives strong, believable performances, with the lead actor being particularly likable, charismatic, and easy to root for. Despite never sharing a screen, he and his romantic co-lead have strong chemistry, and their upcoming wedding immediately makes you invest in their relationship.

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The two buddies deliver performances that perfectly personify the very real mindsets and behaviours prevailing among young people today. Their roguish, loud & outlandish performances/writing also add some comedic relief, while still contributing to the emotional and thematic weight of the story.

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Script & Storytelling

The script feels culturally authentic and natural, genuinely reflecting the way people speak, while maintaining a cinematic atmosphere. The script also contains a little subtle foreboding (supported by flashbacks) that deepens the emotional stakes and reinforces the main character’s childhood trauma.

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Although the film is clearly Nigerian, its themes are universal, exploring childhood trauma, romance, peer pressure, and tragedy in a way that connects with viewers beyond geographical or cultural borders.

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Messages & Themes

At its core, the film delivers a powerful cautionary message about the dangers of peer pressure and excessive drinking. While this warning is universal, it feels especially poignant here in the UK, where similar issues are widely recognised.

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The narrative explores how childhood trauma informs adult behaviour, and how easily that can be dismissed or misunderstood by peers. These themes, paired with the ending, give the film a resonant, emotional impact.

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Overall, behind the glass is a skillfully directed, emotionally engaging, and genuinely impactful short film. at roughly 20 minutes, this short won't take up much of your time, but it will leave you in thought. Be sure to check out this film at your earliest convenience!