When a usurper, Lapita, seizes the throne of Jogbo the scene is set for a film about the power struggles and corruption of a mythical African state tied up to the rituals of kingship – principally the beating of the Saworoide (or brass bell) drum. A homespun political parable emerges drawing interest by converting the typically unstable African political stereotypes into a fable complete with songs and a Greek Chorus that reflect upon the plot.
Bringing 15th-century Africa--before the arrival of colonizers--to rich, colorful life, chronicling the exploits of legendary Yoruba king Sango, ruler of the Oyo empire: his ascension to the throne, his battles with the Olowu and his own war generals, his dangerous experimentations with potent charms, and his ultimate deification.
