Damilola: The Untold Story review – John Boyega’s trauma after losing his childhood friend is haunting

The documentary "Damilola: The Untold Story" offers a deeply personal and haunting exploration of the 2000 murder of 10-year-old Damilola Taylor, an event that sent shockwaves across the United Kingdom and prompted widespread grief and disbelief. The film marks nearly 26 years since the tragic killing, providing a platform for those closest to Damilola to share their experiences for the first time. Among the most compelling voices is that of actor John Boyega, who was a childhood friend of Damilola and was with him, along with his own sister, on the night of the attack. Boyega's participation lends a significant emotional weight to the documentary, as he confronts the enduring trauma of losing his friend.

Damilola Taylor had arrived in London from Nigeria only a few months prior to his death, alongside his mother, Gloria, his brother, Tunde, and his sister, Gbemi. His father, Richard, remained in Lagos, with the intention of joining his family in the UK at a later date, a common aspiration for many diasporic families seeking better opportunities. However, this reunion was tragically never to be.

The fatal incident occurred on November 27, 2000. Damilola was on his way home from the local library to his family's residence on the North Peckham Estate in south London. He was attacked by brothers Ricky and Danny Preddie, who were 13 and 12 years old at the time. The brutal assault involved a glass bottle, which inflicted a severe injury, severing the femoral artery in Damilola's left leg. He was discovered bleeding profusely in a stairwell. Despite efforts to save him, Damilola was pronounced dead shortly after at the nearby King's College Hospital. The murder brought to the forefront critical issues surrounding youth violence in urban areas and the vulnerabilities faced by immigrant communities.

"Damilola: The Untold Story" goes beyond a mere recounting of the events. It delves into the profound emotional impact on those who knew Damilola, including his family and friends. The documentary features the caretaker who discovered Damilola in his final moments, sharing their terror and the immediate aftermath. By bringing these voices together, the film aims to not only memorialize Damilola but also to celebrate his life and the resilience of those who continue to carry his memory. The narrative highlights the lasting legacy of the event and its impact on the individuals involved, offering a space for remembrance and reflection on a pivotal moment in recent British history.