THE WOMAN KING (2022)
October 6, 2025
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The Woman King” (2022): A Triumph of Women Warriors and Complex History
New York / Hollywood — In The Woman King (2022), director Gina Prince-Bythewood brings to the screen a powerful historical epic centered on the Agojie, an all-female warrior regiment that protected the Kingdom of Dahomey in the early 19th century. The film combines visceral battle sequences, emotional drama, and a provocative look at identity, power, and legacy.
Plot & Setting
Set in the year 1823, the story revolves around General Nanisca (Viola Davis), the formidable leader of the Agojie, who is determined to defend Dahomey against external threats and to train the next generation of female soldiers.
One of the recruits, Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), emerges from a troubled past with great potential and a personal connection to Nanisca. As war looms between Dahomey and its rival, the Oyo Empire, Nanisca and her warriors must confront not only external enemies, but also internal conflict, lost identities, and the weight of history.
Cast & Crew
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Viola Davis leads as General Nanisca, anchoring the film with gravitas and emotional weight.
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Thuso Mbedu shines as Nawi, whose coming-of-age arc is central to the film’s emotional stakes.
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Supporting cast includes Lashana Lynch (Izogie), Sheila Atim, John Boyega (King Ghezo), and Hero Fiennes Tiffin (Santo Ferreira).
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The screenplay was written by Dana Stevens, in collaboration with other story contributors.
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Cinematographer, editor, and composer work together to shape the film’s visual and emotional tone.
Production & Release
Filming took place in South Africa. The production faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the omicron wave, before resuming at full pace. The crew emphasized inclusion, with many departments led by underrepresented groups.
The Woman King premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2022, and shortly thereafter launched in theaters across the U.S. The film was later released on digital, Blu-ray, and streaming platforms.
Reception & Impact
Critical Response
Critics praised the film for its performances, director’s vision, and the ambition of bringing a largely untold story to a wide audience. Viola Davis received acclaim for her strong presence and depth.
However, some critics and historians questioned certain artistic liberties, especially in how the film handles Dahomey’s history and its involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. These debates revealed tension between the demands of storytelling and historical accuracy.
Box Office & Awards
The movie performed solidly at the box office, earning tens of millions globally. It also gained recognition in several awards circuits, especially for acting, direction, and its impact in promoting stories of women and African history.
Analysis & Legacy
The Woman King is more than spectacle—it’s a bold statement about representation, female strength, and storytelling. By centering African women warriors in a major Hollywood film, it challenges familiar tropes and expands the possibilities for epic cinema.
At the same time, its narrative choices prompt important conversations about how history is remembered and reshaped. The film encourages both admiration for its heroes and critical reflection on the complexities they inhabit.