"The Last Tree" is a coming-of-age drama film that explores the themes of identity, family, and belonging. Directed by Shola Amoo, the film stars Sam Adewunmi as Femi, the main character who is torn between his rural upbringing and his new life in London.
The film begins with Femi as a happy child living in rural Lincolnshire with his foster mother, Mary (Denise Black). However, it soon becomes apparent that Femi is of Nigerian descent and he is taken away from Mary to live with his birth mother, Yinka (Gbemisola Ikumelo), in inner-city London.
Femi struggles to adapt to his new environment, where he experiences racism, violence, and loneliness. He faces bullying at school and feels like an outsider in his own family. His mother, who is struggling with her own demons, is unable to provide the emotional support that Femi needs.
In an attempt to find a sense of belonging, Femi joins a local gang and begins to rebel against his mother's strict rules. However, he soon realizes that this path will only lead him further away from himself.
The turning point comes when Femi reconnects with his heritage and visits Nigeria with his estranged father. This journey of self-discovery helps Femi to redefine his identity and understand the meaning of family.
The film ends with Femi returning to London, where he is more grounded and self-assured. He has found his own path to adulthood, one that integrates his rural roots and his urban experiences.
"The Last Tree" is a poignant and powerful film that explores the complexities of growing up in a multicultural society. It is a story of resilience, hope, and the importance of finding oneself amidst the chaos of life.
