Iyanu 1×08 Review: “The Sacred”

Iyanu must prove that she is truly the Chosen through a series of trials in “The Sacred.”

After collapsing in the middle of the desert at the end of “The Betrayal,” Team Chosen is thankfully rescued at the beginning of “The Sacred” and taken one step closer to the source of Iyanu’s (Serah Johnson) powers. The episode effectively combines humor and high stakes, making Iyanu’s eventual triumph incredibly satisfying.

Unfortunately, Iyanu is unable to rest for long, as the people of the Sacred Settlements are skeptical of her claims of being the Chosen. This is illustrated in a humorous sequence where a series of people over time try and fail to claim themselves as the Chosen. The people of the settlements challenge her to prove her claim to the title through a series of three trials.

Despite the encouragement of Biyi (Okey Jude), Toye (Samuel Kugbiyi) and Ekun, Iyanu struggles with the first of the challenges, a puzzle that only one with Iyanu’s abilities can complete. Iyanu struggles numerous times before she finally taps into Mama Sewa’s wisdom to advance. The sequence is amusing with Iyanu continuously ending up where she started and the subsequent reactions of the rest of Team Chosen but ultimately becomes repetitive as it goes on for longer than necessary.

Even though nobody has ever completed the first trial, Iyanu is still forced to continue with the trials. Her next trial is to use her ability to tap into nature to revive a dead tree surrounded by bees. Iyanu initially struggles in her first attempt but is once again able to draw on Mama Sewa’s wisdom and the support of allies to successfully complete the second trial.

Before the start of the third trial, Iyanu and Toye are respectively reunited with Olori (Adesua Etomi-Wellington) and Kanfo (Blossom Chukwujekwu). The reunion between Kanfo and Toye is sweet, as Kanfo finally seems to appreciate his son for who he is. On the other hand, Iyanu’s joyous reunion with Olori turns sour quickly as Iyanu becomes angry with Olori for withholding the truth about being the Chosen.

Iyanu’s emotions manifest in her abilities but manages to finally prove herself as the Chosen once she is able to regain control and calm herself down. Satisfied with the completion of the trials, the people of the Sacred Settlements allow Iyanu to approach the source. However, only Ekun can accompany her as he is the only one able to withstand the effects of the source.

Elsewhere in “The Sacred,” Nuro (Femi Sowooli) and the Fallen One (Lord Frank) bring the people of the deep under their control as they make their way towards the source to stop Iyanu. Back in Elu, the citizens fight off the possessed armies ordered to destroy the city and Uwa (Oluwafemi Olugbade) urges the council to join the fight in a particularly enjoyable moment.

With Iyanu closer than ever to embracing her destiny, it will be exciting to see what transpires in the next phase of her journey and for those back in Elu.

Author: Jessica Wolff

Jessica Wolff is a graduate of Drexel University with a BS in Film/Video. She has a passion for entertainment and representation in entertainment. She currently resides outside of Washington, DC.

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