With its strong cast and loosely inspired by real events, The Woman King is a fascinating, exciting tale of a pivotal time in history breathtakingly realized by director Gina Prince-Bythewood and writers Dana Stevens and Maria Bello.
An African tribe in Dahomey in 1823 must defend itself from slave trading rivals by relying on its fierce army of female warriors led by Nanisca (Viola Davis). Among the young female trainees is a girl, Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), who has an important link to the tribe. Outnumbered by the gathering tribes, Nanisca must strategize a daring, risky plan that not only will determine their survival, but has far reaching consequences as truths are revealed and loyalties tested.
These Amazons are noble, yet brutal when in battle where there is no room for weakness or sentiment. They are supreme fighters not unlike the Amazons in Wonder Woman and the Wakanda women in Black Panther; you get the idea. With its well-choreographed, unflinching depiction of hand to hand combat, the film also has the DNA of Braveheart.
An
engrossing screenplay is able to focus on each character’s motivation and past
trauma revealing a deep, unwavering bond and sisterhood. The
story elicits strong, emotional moments especially in its rousing climax. Most of all, the film is also a message about
empowerment and the powerful meaning of
‘family’, even a newly found one. Further,
the film also makes a statement about its time period with the Dahomey tribe
transcending and evolving from a male dominated world and an immoral slave
trade.
With
Davis completely transforming herself
into a powerful leader and Lashana Lynch outstanding in support, expect multiple
Oscar nominations for a movie that thrills, surprises, and touches the heart
all at once.
****
of **** stars (With a brief mid credit scene)
No comments:
Post a Comment