History is rewritten by the warriors
They say that history is written by the victors, but in The Woman King, it is rewritten by the warriors. Like a tempestuous force of nature, this film storms onto the screen, a narrative of valour and vigour that pays homage to the indomitable spirit of women who refuse to be sidelined. It is a cinematic call to arms, a stirring anthem of empowerment that trades swords and sandals for spears and sinew, set against the tumultuous backdrop of 19th-century West Africa.
In the Kingdom of Dahomey, the fearsome Agojie warriors stand as the last bastion against the encroaching threat of European colonisers and rival African factions. General Nanisca, portrayed with steely resolve by the formidable Viola Davis, leads these warriors with a blend of unyielding strength and palpable vulnerability. The narrative weaves through the lives of these women as they train new recruits to join their ranks, focusing on the spirited Nawi, brought to life by the effervescent Thuso Mbedu. Nawi’s journey from impulsive novice to steadfast warrior provides the film with its beating heart, a pulsating rhythm that resonates with every battle cry.
Viola Davis commands the screen with her portrayal of Nanisca, imbuing her character with a nuanced depth that captures both the strength and the scars of a leader who has weathered the storms of life. Her presence is complemented by a stellar supporting cast, including Lashana Lynch as Izogie, whose balance of humour and heart provides a refreshing counterpoint to the film’s intensity. John Boyega also makes an impact as King Ghezo, his regal charisma adding layers to the intricate tapestry of power dynamics and political intrigue that underpin the narrative.
The action sequences unfold like visual poetry, their choreography a testament to the skill and precision of the Agojie warriors and the performers who bring them back to big-screen life. These scenes are not merely spectacle; they are the lifeblood of the film, each battle a visceral testament to the warriors’ unwavering resolve. The decision to have the actors perform their own stunts enhances the authenticity, drawing the audience into the heart of the conflict. As spears fly and swords clash, the viewer is thrust into a world where every move counts and every strike resonates with the echoes of history.
The film paints a vivid picture of African culture, offering glimpses into the traditions, music, and rituals of the Dahomey kingdom. This rich tapestry of cultural elements serves as more than mere backdrop; it is an integral part of the film’s identity, grounding the story in a tangible reality that is both captivating and enlightening. The costumes and makeup transform the cast into living embodiments of their characters, their appearance a testament to the film’s dedication to authenticity.
Yet, amidst its triumphs and tight coreography, The Woman King is not without its missteps. The film takes liberties with historical accuracy, presenting a sanitised version of the Dahomey’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. It’s a choice that makes sense from anarrarive perspective although it raises difficult questions about the responsibility of historical storytelling and the fine line between fiction and reality. The film’s focus on highlighting female empowerment is commendable but the glossing over of certain historical complexities detracts from its authenticity.
The pacing, too, is a little haphazard and transitions between key plot points can feel a little abrupt, leaving the audience with a sense that some kind of compromise was reached in the editing suite that left all sides slightly unhappy. A romantic subplot, while intended to add depth, feels more like an unnecessary detour from the film’s central focus on the warriors’ journey, something the film explores from a fresh perspective. The Woman King stands proudly alongside historical action epics like Gladiator or Braveheart, giving African history the same sense of sweeping scale and grandeur that is always afforded European antiquity and matching them for emotional depth and lead performances.
The Woman King is a powerful and long overdue addition to cinema’s historical tableau, weaving an inspiring and rousing tribute to female strength and resilience. Though it may stumble a little in its historical accuracy – what epic movie doesn’t? – the film triumphs in delivering a gripping story that will resonate long after the credits roll.
