The Woman King - Movie Review

The Woman King is a new action packed drama movie that takes us back in time to the Western African kingdom of Dahomey in the 1820s. This film is based on the real-life Agojie, a group of fearless female warriors who were responsible for defending their territories. This movie portrays the Agojie as a highly respected and feared group, with common people not even allowed to look at them.

Director Gina Prince-Bythewood has masterfully brought the Agojie's combat and training sequences to life through brilliant cinematography. These sequences are both vicious and thought-provoking, with the director's exceptional direction making them stand out. The film's battle to control territories, combined with its underlying theme of slavery within African kingdoms, gives the movie a well-balanced mix of both spectacle and substance.

One of the key highlights of the film is the powerhouse performance of Viola Davis, who portrays the role of Nanisca, the general of the Agojie. Davis brings a unique blend of physical and emotional intensity to the character, with her tough-love approach perfectly balanced with a delicate touch. She is so convincing in her portrayal of the character that it's hard to imagine anyone else in the role. Davis's magnetic performance as Nanisca is nothing short of breathtaking, making it all the more surprising that she was not nominated for this year's Academy Awards.

One of the key highlights of the film is the powerhouse performance of Viola Davis, who portrays the role of Nanisca, the general of the Agojie. Davis brings a unique blend of physical and emotional intensity to the character, with her tough-love approach perfectly balanced with a delicate touch. She is so convincing in her portrayal of the character that it's hard to imagine anyone else in the role. Davis's magnetic performance as Nanisca is nothing short of breathtaking, making it all the more surprising that she was not nominated for this year's Academy Awards.

Another standout performance in the film comes from Thuso Mbedu as Nawi, whose strong sense of self puts her at odds with the authoritative Nanisca. Lashana Lynch also shines in her role as Izogie, bringing a sense of hope and levity to the film's otherwise gloomy tone. Both Mbedu and Lynch deserve more recognition for their performances in the film than they have received so far.

Another standout performance in the film comes from Thuso Mbedu as Nawi, whose strong sense of self puts her at odds with the authoritative Nanisca. Lashana Lynch also shines in her role as Izogie, bringing a sense of hope and levity to the film's otherwise gloomy tone. Both Mbedu and Lynch deserve more recognition for their performances in the film than they have received so far.

John Boyega also delivers his best performance to date as King Ghezo, showcasing his untapped potential in the role. While the film does have some narrative threads that could have been left out, including those involving the king and his wives, it is still a great movie with fantastic action sequences and moving characters brought to life by an excellent ensemble cast.

Pacing issues and historical inaccuracies aside, The Woman King is a must-watch movie for anyone who loves action-packed dramas. With its excellent direction, breathtaking performances, and well-balanced mix of spectacle and substance, this film is sure to be a hit with audiences. Whether you're a fan of action-packed dramas or simply looking for a great movie to watch, The Woman King is definitely worth checking out.

It is directed by Gina Prince Bythewood and written by Dana Stevens, based on a story she wrote with Maria Bello. The film also stars Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch, Sheila Atim, Hero Fiennes Tiffin, and John Boyega.

4 out of 5 stars