The Woman King (2022)

THE WOMAN KING is a sanitised story based on superficial references to historical events with a heavy helping of fiction. It stars Viola Davis as General Nanisca, the leader of the Agojie, an all-female unit of warriors in the African Kingdom of Dahomey which existed in the 17th-19th centuries.

The film begins with Nanisca training a new generation of recruits and preparing them for battle. We see her and her trusted warriors teaching them how to fight and use their skills to defeat an enemy who is determined to destroy their way of life.

The film is visually stunning, with beautiful shots of the African landscape and the women training in it. The action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting to watch. However, the story feels rushed and unfinished. It’s as if the filmmakers weren’t quite sure what they wanted to say with this film, so they didn’t say much at all. There are certainly hints of significant themes, for example, the importance of female empowerment and the fight against discrimination and slavery. But these themes are never fully explored or developed. And there is an unnecessary and distracting romance between two of the characters that feels completely out of place.

As a result, THE WOMAN KING is an uneven film that is nevertheless worth watching for its impressive visuals and strong performances. Viola Davis is particularly good as the tough and determined General Nanisca. She brings a sense of gravity and weight to the role that elevates the film above its many flaws.

Lashana Lynch, as Izogie, Nanisca’s second-in-command, is also excellent. She is fierce and brave, and her scenes with Davis are some of the best in the film. And the young Thuso Mbedu, who plays Nawi, is a true star in the making. She is fierce, brave, and vulnerable all at the same time.

The sisterhood of women that ties the story together is another of THE WOMAN KING’s strongest elements. The bond between the women is powerful and moving, and they would do anything for each other.

Is THE WOMAN KING accurate history? Not completely. Nanisca is not a historical figure, there is some historical whitewashing, and little context is given for the events that occurred.

In the end, THE WOMAN KING is a film with enormous potential that falls short of its lofty goals. However, it is still worth watching for its impressive visuals, strong performances, and positive messages about female empowerment. Don’t come looking for accurate history, but as a piece of sometimes thrilling entertainment it will have you emotionally engaged, it’s worth your time.

(In cinemas in Australia – check your movie guide for your local show times.)