TriStar Pictures, Entertainment One, TSG Entertainment II, JuVee Productions and Welle Entertainment’s The Woman King (dubbed from the Hollywood film of the same name; UA) is a historical action drama about the Agojie, the all-female warrior unit which protected the West African kingdom of Dahomey during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Set in the 1820s, it is the story of General Nanisca (Viola Davis), leader of the Agojie. Nanisca is training a whole new generation of warriors to join the Agojie so that they can prepare to carry out King Ghezo’s (John Boyega) mission of declaring an all-out war on the Oyo empire. Among the trainees is Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), a strong-willed girl who has a sad history. Nawi befriends Izogie (Lashana Lynch), a veteran Agojie.
Portuguese slave traders arrive as part of an alliance with the Oyo, led by General Oba Ade (Jimmy Odukoya). Here, Nanisca leads the Agojie in an attack on the Oyo. The attack is successful but Oba Ade escapes while Nawi, Izogie and a few others are captured. Even while King of Dahomey, Ghezo, prepares to bestow the title of Woman King on Nanisca, the latter defies his order and leads a rescue mission for the captive Agojie. What happens thereafter?
Maria Bello and Dana Stevens have written an interesting story but it holds less appeal for the Indian audience which are used to applauding heroes more than heroines. Dana Stevens’ screenplay is fast-paced and exciting but having said that, it must be added that it moves on a single track, making it uni-dimensional. No doubt, there are layers and back stories but they aren’t emotional enough to make the viewers cry. Dialogues are alright.
Viola Davis does an excellent job as Nanisca. Thuso Mbedu shines in the role of Nawi. Lashana Lynch lends terrific support as Izogie. Sheila Atim does a remarkable job as Amenza. Hero Fiennes Tiffin has his moments as Santo Ferreira. John Boyega leaves a mark as King Ghezo. Jordan Bolger is pretty endearing as Malik. Jimmy Odukoya is effective as General Oba Ade. Masali Baruza (as Fumbe), Jayme Lawson (as Shante), Adrienne Warren (as Ode), Siv Ngesi (as the Migan), Angélique Kidjo (as the Meunon), Zozibini Tunzi (as Efe), Makgotso M (as Iniya), Wanda Banda (as young Nanisca), Lethabo (as young Amenza), Joel Mukadi (as young Oba), Thando Dlomo (as Kelu) and Julian Tennon (as Moru) lend very good support.
Gina Prince-Bythewoods’ direction is nice. Terence Blanchard’s background music is impactful. Polly Morgan does a splendid job of the cinematography. Terilyn A. Shropshire’s editing is sharp. Dubbing is proper.
On the whole, The Woman King is an entertaining fare but it has bleak chances at the Indian box-office.
Released on 3-2-’23 at Gemini (daily 2 shows) and other cinemas of Bombay thru Sony Pictures Films India Pvt. Ltd. Publicity & opening: poor. …….Also released all over.