Bola Gbadebo's debut documentary, Confidence, delivers an empowering exploration of self-belief through a lens of vulnerability, resilience, and the shared human experience. Known for her talents as a journalist, poet, musician, and filmmaker, Gbadebo uses Confidence to redefine what it means to trust in oneself, particularly when life’s challenges test our inner resolve. This film stands out not only as a personal reflection of Gbadebo’s journey but also as a collective one, as she engages with individuals in her community to understand their own experiences with confidence.
Gbadebo’s approach is intimate, focusing on how the power of storytelling and community can transform our perception of self-worth. By exploring how we embrace imperfections and handle setbacks, she highlights the beauty of facing one’s fears and the strength in humility. Through her conversations with local community members, she uncovers a truth many will find relatable: confidence is not a permanent state but an ongoing, evolving process.
The film’s standout moments lie in its simplicity—capturing the raw, unscripted emotions of people reflecting on their self-assurance. Gbadebo’s ability to draw out deep, vulnerable insights from her interviewees mirrors her own personal quest for answers, especially in navigating the complexities of her life as a journalist and filmmaker. As she states in the documentary’s intro, confidence isn’t a final destination but a “roller coaster type experience” that fluctuates depending on the circumstances.
In the interview accompanying the film, Gbadebo’s reflections add an even deeper dimension. She speaks candidly about her struggles with confidence, sharing that it has been an ebb and flow for her. This authenticity shines through in the documentary, making it not only an exploration of confidence but also a therapeutic experience for both Gbadebo and her subjects. This human connection is perhaps the most refreshing aspect of the film—the validation that, despite outward appearances, many of us are grappling with the same internal conflicts.
One of the key takeaways from Confidence is the idea that self-belief is about progress over perfection. Gbadebo emphasizes that we often face a "mental internal conflict" when trying to navigate hard situations, and learning how to respond to failure is an integral part of building confidence. The documentary serves as a reminder that it’s okay to be in a state of growth, and that being honest about where we are in life is crucial to developing a healthy sense of self-worth.
Gbadebo's personal story is as compelling as the film itself. Born into a royal family in Nigeria and raised in the United States, her journey to self-discovery has been marked by rich cultural experiences and complex personal challenges. Her background gives her a unique perspective on the importance of resilience, humility, and inner conviction—elements that are at the core of Confidence.
The documentary, coupled with Gbadebo’s insightful commentary, is a celebration of the human spirit. It’s a powerful reminder that while confidence may waver, the pursuit of self-belief is a journey worth taking. If you're curious about Confidence or want to learn more about Bola Gbadebo's work, visit Bola Films for more information.
Jessie Hobson