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The Woman King
(Tri-Star Pictures)
By Lucas Allen
The start of the fall season also means a season of award-worthy movies vying for Hollywood’s top honors. One of the possible contenders that could stick out is the new action drama “The Woman King.” Inspired by true events, the movie is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (Netflix’s “The Old Guard”) and written by Dana Stevens, who also co-wrote the story with actress Maria Bello.
In 1823 West Africa, the nation of Dahomey was peacefully ruled by the young King Ghezo (John Boyega),but is in a constant threat from the rival Oyo tribe for dominion of nations. As the neighboring tribes wage war, Dahomey’s army guard is the all-female Agojie, led by the fierce general Nanisca (Viola Davis) vowing to protect the king at all costs. A young girl named Nawi (Thuso Mbedu) enters the kingdom by her rich father after refusing an arranged marriage before starting her training for the Agojie under the guidance of Izogie (Lashana Lynch).
Meanwhile, Malik (Jordan Bolger) arrives as part of the Portuguese slave trade, and rediscovers his Dahomey roots. Although she’s very committed to her training, Nawi finds herself forbiddingly smitten with Malik, especially with the slave trade in cahoots with the Oyo tribe. However, Nanisca’s past comes back to haunt her as she and her army has to make heavy sacrifices to save their tribe.
While obviously influenced by the success of “Black Panther,” this movie stands on its own by going the “Braveheart” route with historical action. Though PG-13, it doesn’t hold back entirely on the violence, resulting in some intense action sequences. It’s refreshing to see in this day and age for a non-IP film of this sorts with the same blockbuster energy, but also with a good story involved. Not to mention, it’s filled with nice visual appeal for the African locations during the day and night scenes.
Some of the plot points may not be all that relatively true to its history, which could make the story seem questionable. Although it’s going for both action and drama, the movie tends to drag with some sub-plotting including a romance side story that feels needless. Despite those issues, the movie does try and succeed at keeping the story interesting including a second-act twist that helps drive the third act. Things come to ahead in a night battle climax that becomes a satisfying conclusion.
The movie’s strongest focal point is in the acting by some of the top talent working today. As always, Davis commands her performance with the fierceness and animalistic personality that fits her character. Newcomer Mbedu is also the driving force for the film as the story’s heart and courageous spirit. The presence of Lynch and Boyega also help add blockbuster appeal to this heavy drama. Bolger is fine in his supporting role though his character was written for a romantic subplot that didn’t feel needed.
To sum things up, “The Woman King”boasts some good storytelling with great acting and visuals to boot. The talent behind the costumes, design, and music also receives some special mention for help putting this movie together. Hopefully, come awards time, it deserves some well-deserved recognition.
THE MOVIE’S RATING: PG-13 (for sequences of strong violence, some disturbing material, thematic content, brief language, and partial nudity)
THE CRITIC’S RATING: 3.5 Stars (Out of Four)
