Under Siege Review: Mount Zion’s Epic Musical Rewrites the Rules of Gospel Film
What happens when one of Nigeria’s top gospel film ministries dares to reimagine how Christian stories are told? You get Under Siege — a bold, heartfelt musical drama that pushes gospel cinema beyond its comfort zone into a space bursting with music, emotion, and cinematic ambition.
This isn’t just another faith-based film; it’s a groundbreaking leap into the world of musicals. While there have been hints of this genre in past projects like The Chair and Sing U-lah, Under Siege is the first full-length musical feature from Mount Zion Film Productions — and it’s electrifying.
A Story That Hits Close to Home
The film follows Kolade, played with intensity and vulnerability by Greatman Takit, a young man burning with dreams of making music and serving God but torn by his father’s rigid expectations. In his desperation, he falls in with dangerous influences, setting off a spiral of choices that threaten everything he holds dear.
This is more than just a coming-of-age tale; it’s a raw, relatable portrait of ambition, parental pressure, spiritual struggle, and the lure of shortcuts in a fame-obsessed world. It’s a conversation starter for parents and youths alike — and a wake-up call on where true purpose lies.
An All-Star Cast and Stirring Performances
The film’s ensemble lights up the screen with unforgettable energy:
Greatman Takit brings Kolade’s highs and lows to life with authentic emotion.
Joshua Mike-Bamiloye (Jay-Mikee) shines as Timi, blending humor and heartfelt conviction.
Gospel music stars like Gaise Baba and Mike Abdul inject the film with powerful, soul-lifting performances.
Darasimi Oyor and veterans like Mike Bamiloye add emotional and spiritual weight to every scene.
A Soundtrack That Soars
Every great musical needs songs that stick with you, and Under Siege delivers track after track of powerful, soul-stirring music. From gospel ballads to Afrobeat-infused praise anthems, each number advances the story and drives home its emotional beats.
Highlights include the epic final songs, which bring both the character arcs and themes to a breathtaking climax. For music lovers, these songs will be on repeat long after the credits roll — you can find Jay-Mikee’s music here.
Cinematic Excellence
The production values here set a new bar for gospel films: stunning locations, creative cinematography, and vibrant colors that give scenes a larger-than-life feel. Sequences like Kolade singing on the hilltops are not just visually captivating but spiritually moving, capturing the scale and passion of his inner battle.
Room for Improvement
While the film soars in many areas, it occasionally falters in pacing. Some scenes stretch longer than necessary, and the subplot involving crime elements feels underdeveloped, leaving a few unanswered questions. Additionally, the character of Kate could have been introduced earlier to build a stronger connection with the audience.
Yet these are small stumbles in a film that takes on a daring scope rarely attempted in Christian cinema — and mostly succeeds.
Final Thoughts
Under Siege is a bold triumph that redefines what gospel movies can achieve, blending heartfelt storytelling, compelling performances, and music that uplifts the soul. It’s an inspiring reminder of God’s power to save and transform lives, and a fresh, thrilling milestone for faith-based filmmaking in Nigeria.
This is one gospel film you’ll want to watch — and watch again.
Film Details
Title: UNDER SIEGE (June 22, 2025)
Duration: 127 minutes
Production House: Mount Zion Film Productions
Starring:
Greatman Takit as Kolade
Joshua Mike-Bamiloye (Jay-Mikee) as Timi
Gaise Baba as Samuel
Mike Bamiloye as Rev. Emmanuel
Mike Abdul as Gasper
Darasimi Oyor as Kate
Key Crew:
Written & Directed by: Damilola Mike-Bamiloye
Director of Photography: Tofunmi Ojo
Editing: Victor Otegbade
Music & Music Direction: Joshua Mike-Bamiloye
Watch the full movie below: