Why "The Woman King" Should Have Been a Defining Pop Culture Moment

The year 2022 brought some excellent films, including a comeback for Brendan Fraser and a renewed appreciation for Colin Farrell's expressive eyebrows. However, despite its quality, The Woman King failed to receive the recognition it deserved. The film, which showcases an all-woman warrior unit in Dahomey, was a breathtaking spectacle, both visually and emotionally.

Sublime Battle Scenes and Compelling Drama

The Woman King's all-out battle scenes featuring hundreds of women on the frontlines, combining grace with ferocity, are among the year's most remarkable action scenes. The movie's more subdued dramatic moments were equally compelling, if not as buzzworthy.

The film is directed by Gina Maria Prince-Bythewood and is categorized as a historical action drama set in the 1820s in Dahomey. While the all-woman warrior unit Agojie was a real thing, opting for palm oil production instead of profiting from the slave trade is a bit of creative license. Screenwriters Dana Stevens and Maria Bello do take some liberties with the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey, but if you are not overly concerned with accuracy, The Woman King is a stirring tale of restorative justice, imagining a brighter future by rewriting the past.

Viola Davis stars as Nanisca, a general who trains a fierce group of women to protect Dahomey against its enemies, in particular, the Oyo Empire's slavers. After the slavers abduct many Dahomean women for sale to Europe and the United States, King Ghezo (John Boyega) calls for war. Nanisca, tasked with preparing a new generation of female warriors to join the Agojie, is joined by the determined teenager Nawi (Thuso Mbedu).

A Missed Opportunity for Pop Culture

The Woman King had the potential to become a defining pop culture moment. Its captivating storyline, awe-inspiring visuals, and outstanding performances could have pushed it to the forefront of mainstream entertainment. Unfortunately, the film failed to gain the recognition it deserved, being overlooked for any significant accolades.

Final Thoughts

The Woman King is an outstanding film, and it is regrettable that it did not receive the recognition it deserved. The movie's historical accuracy may not be perfect, but it is still an important and moving story about a female warrior unit in Dahomey, and their struggles against slavers. It is a missed opportunity for pop culture, as the film could have gained wider recognition and sparked meaningful conversations. Nonetheless, The Woman King is a testament to the strength of women and the power of storytelling.

WHY SHOULD YOU WATCH THE WOMAN KING?

The Woman King is a film with an epic narrative, impressive performances, and stunning visuals. Director Gina Prince-Bythewood ensured that the film's department heads were women and people of color, who know how to light darker skin tones. Lead actress Viola Davis shines in her role, displaying a quiet tenacity that eventually explodes on the battlefield in action-packed choreography. The supporting cast, including Sheila Atim, Lashana Lynch, and newcomer Thuso Mbedu, are also exceptional in their roles, each bringing nuance and depth to their characters. Despite being snubbed by the Academy, 

The Woman King is a must-see film, now streaming on Netflix.