Iyanu 1×05 Review: “The People of the Deep”

Team Chosen finally assembles amidst an intense battle in “The People of the Deep.”

The standoff between the people of the Riverlands, the army members of Elu, and the mysterious people of the deep teased in the closing minutes of “The Arrival” is even more brutal than expected. “The People of the Deep” sees multiple casualties and sends Iyanu (Serah Johnson) on the run once again with her new companions in tow.

Once the army of the people of the deep demand that Iyanu be handed over to them, all hell breaks loose as both the people of the Riverlands, and the army of Elu are thrust into battle. Amidst the chaos, Iyanu and Biyi (Okey Jude) begin to escape before Iyanu declares that they must stay and help the people of the Riverlands. Though it took some time, it’s great to see Iyanu finally begin to embrace her destiny as the Chosen.

Along the way, Iyanu and Biyi gain two new allies. Iyanu heals magical panther Ekun from the corruption and realizes that he’s meant to be an ally rather than a foe. Biyi is distrustful of Ekun but reluctantly climbs aboard the giant cat by the end of the episode. Meanwhile, Toye (Samuel Kugbiyi) also joins the group after being separated from his father Kanfo (Blossom Chukwujekwu) and the teased “Team Chosen” is finally assembled. Though the team still needs time to fully bond, the chemistry between the characters is already apparent as they help each other in the battle.

Upon returning to the village, Iyanu and Biyi discover Mama Sewa (Stella Damasus) under some rubble and near death. Mama Sewa manages to provide some final wisdom and valuable items before succumbing to her injuries. Though it’s unfortunate to see a great character perish, her death is a necessary catalyst for Iyanu to finally embrace Mama Sewa and her teachings.

Elsewhere in the battle, Kanfo pleads with the general of the people of the deep to let him find his son. Amid the argument, he realizes that he is the one that put Toye into danger by forcing him to accompany the mission. Though Kanfo’s fate is unclear, the brief images of the people of the deep handling the people of the Riverlands and the sight of the burning huts indicate that there are very little chances of survivors. It’s a dark turn for the series, but it also emphasizes how high the stakes are for Iyanu and Team Chosen.

In a positive development, Olori (Adesua Etomi-Wellington) breaks out of captivity in Elu. With Iyanu, Biyi, and Toye able to escape the burning village on the back of Ekun, hopefully Iyanu will be able to reunite with her mother figure soon. As Team Chosen heads to their next destination at the end of “The People of the Deep,” it will be exciting to see what will come next for them as Iyanu continues to master her abilities and the team continues to grow their bond.

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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