The Woman King (2022) is a historical action-drama film directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and written by Dana Stevens. The film is inspired by true events and tells the story of the Agojie, an all-female military unit that protected the Kingdom of Dahomey, which existed in present-day Benin, West Africa, during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The film centers around General Nanisca (played by Viola Davis), a powerful and skilled leader of the Agojie, and her warrior protégée, Nawi (played by Thuso Mbedu). The story follows Nanisca as she trains a new generation of female warriors to defend Dahomey from external threats, including the European slave traders who are exploiting the region. At the same time, the film explores the complex dynamics within the kingdom, including political tensions, personal histories, and the struggle for justice and freedom.

While the film is grounded in historical events, it takes creative liberties for dramatic purposes, blending fiction with the real-life legacy of the Agojie. The movie also explores themes of womanhood, power, loyalty, and the fight for one’s homeland.

The film received generally positive reviews from critics, especially for the performances of Viola Davis and Thuso Mbedu, as well as the action sequences and overall direction. Critics praised the movie for its focus on female empowerment and its historical representation of African women warriors. However, some debates arose about the film’s historical accuracy, particularly regarding the portrayal of the Dahomey Kingdom’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, with some arguing that the film oversimplified or fictionalized certain aspects of history.

Overall, The Woman King is a powerful and visually compelling film that celebrates the strength and resilience of women while addressing important historical issues.