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The Woman King

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02:22

The Woman King

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• Action
• Drama

• 2022
• Gina Prince-Bythewood
• 134 mins
• 15

Summary

Historical action drama starring Viola Davis. In 1823, the West African kingdom of Dahomey is in conflict with the neighbouring Oyo Empire. Dahomean general Nanisca, leader of all-women regiment the Agojie, trains up a new generation of warriors in preparation for war. However, the Oyo have forged an alliance with the Portuguese that could prove Dahomey's downfall.

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IMDB

Review

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

James Mottram

Viola Davis leads a first-rate cast in this stirring action adventure set in West Africa in 1823. She plays Nanisca, the steely-eyed leader of the Agojie, a fearless group of female warriors who protect Dahomey (pre-colonial Benin) and its ruler (John Boyega) from the rival Oyo Empire. Seen through the perspective of recruit Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), who butts heads with both Nanisca and her deputy (Lashana Lynch), the film mixes melodrama and history with high-octane combat scenes. Directed with vigour by Gina Prince-Bythewood (The Old Guard), the film's action scenes are breathlessly shot and thrillingly edited. Meanwhile, a muscular Davis is commanding, but she's matched by the spirited Mbedu (The Underground Railroad), who navigates her character's emotional journey with skill. While the film isn't totally historically accurate, The Woman King remains a gritty, groundbreaking Hollywood tale of female empowerment.

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6.9/10

How to watch

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Streaming

• NOW
• Sky Store

Credits

Cast

rolenameNaniscaViola DavisNawiThuso MbeduIzogieLashana LynchAmenzaSheila AtimKing GhezoJohn BoyegaMalikJordan BolgerSanto FerreiraHero Fiennes-Tiffin

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Crew

rolenameDirectorGina Prince-Bythewood

Details

Theatrical distributor

eOne

Released on

2022-09-16

Languages

English | Portuguese

Guidance

Violence, swearing, sexual references, discriminatory language, drug abuse

Formats

Colour

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