A strong Narrative of Female Strength and Empowerment by Tanya Maswaure
The moment I watched the trailer, instant goose bumps spread over my body. I witnessed what may have been a typically male-dominated movie, starring black dark skinned women who stood and fought with confidence. The Woman King is one for the books, and the critics agree! Viola Davis leads a star-studded cast of black excellence and strong female leaders. Like an ancient historical female bodybuilder, the 56-year-old trained younger warriors in the movie. Her zest and fierceness instantly made her one of my favourite characters from the movie. Before the movie was released, the cast appeared on shows and tours, speaking extensively about their intense exercise routines that led to their chiselled and strong bodies. They trained like actual warriors, something that was often just explored amongst men. From behind the scenes to the moment they hit the screens, these actresses have created a beautiful narrative of female strength and empowerment.
The Woman King has already scored 94% on the Rotten Tomato meter, which is arguably the most trusted measure of quality movies and TV. Likewise, Movie Critics reached the consensus that this is an iconic production stating- “All Hail Viola Davis, The Woman King rules.” The film, only having recently reached the silver screen, has gained much popularity and is driving movie lovers to cinemas across the globe. The Woman King is the remarkable story of the Agojie, the all-female unit of warriors who protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s with skills and a fierceness, unlike anything the world has ever seen. Inspired by true events, ‘The Woman King’ follows the emotionally epic journey of General Nanisca (Oscar®- winner Viola Davis) as she trains the next generation of recruits and prepares them for battle against an enemy determined to destroy their way of life.
Top international critics have exclaimed:
“If you’re someone who loves action movies that use “true events” as an entry to a deeper narrative about surviving trauma, defying misogyny and overcoming personal torment in the face, along with all the ass-kicking, then ‘The Woman King’ is a masterpiece.” Melanie MacFarland, TV Critic and Senior Culture Writer “A huge spectacle… the movie isAfrican focused but universal in its depiction of greed, suppression and tyranny. A deft team of female artists have masterfully created a feminist allegory that will excite and inform movie lovers for years to come.” Dwight Brown, National Publisher Association Film Critic The Woman King not only has the capability of being one of the best female-directed movies of the year but it is bound to start narratives and inspire young women. The trailer alone features music by Moonchild Sanele, a black South African female artist, and Beyonce. Almost every element of this movie has a black female involved in leading and creating.
Whilst the story of female warriors alone can inspire and educate, the film’s creation is one of a kind and something to be celebrated. The movie is just reaching its peak popularity as some countries are only just screening it this week. Some cinemas in Africa have begun making events around the premiere of this movie, celebrating an African narrative at the box office.
Women across the globe are also filling cinemas in celebration of girl power, especially since this is a movie directed by a black woman. Overall the movie breaks boundaries and starts conversations which is always a sign of good production —we hope Amazons Watch readers get a chance to watch and enjoy this movie.
Comments are closed.