🎬 Movie Review: The Woman King (2022)
“Her courage shaped a kingdom.”
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Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, The Woman King is an electrifying historical drama inspired by the true story of the Agojie, the all-female warrior unit that protected the African kingdom of Dahomey in the 19th century. At the heart of the film is a fierce and commanding performance by Viola Davis as General Nanisca, leading her warriors into battle—and into history.
The film follows Nanisca as she trains the next generation of warriors, including the rebellious recruit Nawi (played with fierce energy by Thuso Mbedu), while navigating political intrigue, colonial threats, and internal struggles within Dahomey itself. As tensions rise, the warriors must fight not just for their kingdom’s survival, but for their right to define their own destiny.
The Woman King shines in its ability to blend large-scale battle sequences with deeply personal storytelling. The action scenes are raw, brutal, and exhilarating, but it’s the emotional arcs—particularly between Nanisca and Nawi—that give the film its true power. Every battle, every loss, and every triumph feels earned because it’s rooted in characters we genuinely care about.
Viola Davis delivers a performance that is both physically fierce and emotionally complex, portraying Nanisca as a leader scarred by her past but fueled by hope for a better future. The supporting cast—especially Lashana Lynch as the witty and deadly Izogie and John Boyega as King Ghezo—bring richness and charisma to the story.
Visually, the film is stunning. The African landscapes are vibrant, the costume design is intricate and regal, and the choreography of the battle scenes feels both authentic and cinematic. The score by Terence Blanchard swells with emotion, carrying the audience through moments of both heartbreak and triumph.
Final Verdict: ★★★★½☆ (4.5/5)
The Woman King is a triumphant celebration of Black history, female strength, and resistance. It’s epic, inspiring, and deeply moving—a film that demands to be seen and remembered.
