What Will Be (Que Sera, Sera): A Nigerian Basketball Dream, Tested by Faith and Friendship
This isn’t your average Nigerian movie recap. “What Will Be (Que Sera, Sera)” isn’t just about a basketball player’s journey; it’s a raw, emotional rollercoaster ride exploring themes of family, unwavering friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. The film centres around Ker, a talented young basketball player with dreams of going pro, a dream seemingly shattered after missing an opportunity to join the national team.
The film opens with a palpable tension: Ker’s mum, a fiercely protective woman, clashes with his seemingly carefree approach to life. His uncle, Ezra, adds another layer of complexity, pushing Ker to consider a stable engineering job instead of chasing an uncertain basketball career. This familial conflict forms a powerful backdrop to Ker’s struggle. He’s torn between familial expectations and his burning passion. We see his determination waver, especially after his setback with the national team. The script is peppered with realistic dialogue capturing the nuances of Nigerian family dynamics.
However, a glimmer of hope appears in the form of Nnenna, a loyal and supportive friend who brings a much-needed dose of grounded reality and unwavering belief in Ker’s talent. Their relationship, while not explicitly romantic at first, is a cornerstone of the film’s emotional core. Nnenna’s steadfast loyalty contrasts beautifully with the anxieties and uncertainties that surround Ker. The relationship between Ker and Nnenna is more than friendship. This is a complex and beautifully nuanced portrait of platonic love.
The film takes a sharp turn when a devastating accident leaves Ker wheelchair-bound. The narrative then pivots to Ker’s gruelling road to recovery, both physically and mentally. It’s a harrowing journey, filled with moments of despair, doubt, and the heartbreaking reality of his broken dreams. The scene where he refuses to eat or participate in his therapy is particularly gut-wrenching.
But amidst the darkness, the power of human connection shines through. His mother’s unwavering love, despite her initial worries, proves to be his anchor. Nnenna, along with his friends JP and Eddie, remains steadfast in their support. They tirelessly try to convince him to return to his therapy sessions. Their unwavering belief in him becomes a catalyst for his healing.
The film masterfully interweaves these emotional arcs with the surprising re-emergence of a professional basketball opportunity. This isn’t a simple “happily ever after” ending, though. The agency’s offer arrives at a point where Ker’s confidence is at its lowest, making the path to recovery even more challenging. He even faces some internal conflict about his relationship with Nnenna, struggling to see the depth of her feelings for him.
The climax isn’t a sudden triumph but a gradual, painful, and ultimately triumphant climb back to his feet, both literally and metaphorically. The final scene showing Ker walking again, albeit with crutches, speaks volumes. It’s a testament to his resilience and the profound impact of love and friendship.
“What Will Be (Que Sera, Sera)” is not just a sports drama; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity, a celebration of friendship, and a touching exploration of the complexities of family relationships, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Nigerian life. It’s a film that will resonate long after the credits roll. The raw emotionality and relatable characters makes this movie a must-watch.
