‘The Woman King’: Viola Davis Is a Fierce General In New Drama

TriStar Pictures has released the first look images from their upcoming film ‘The Woman King’ starring Academy winner Viola Davis. The visuals were published on the first day of Black History Month; the movie is set to be released later this year.

Inspired by true events, ‘The Woman King’ tells the story of Nanisca (Davis), a general of an all-female military group in the Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. The historical epic follows Nanisca and her military recruit Nawi (Thuso Mbedu) as they fight against enemies who violated their honor, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they have lived for.

Gina Prince-Bythewood (‘Love & Basketball,’ ‘Beyond the Lights’) is directing with the script by Dana Stevens (‘City of Angels’, ‘Fatherhood’). Also starring in the film are Lashana Lynch, John Boyega, Sheila Atim, Adrienne Warren, Jayme Lawson, and Hero Fiennes-Tiffin.

Davis took it to Twitter to share her excitement over the upcoming movie release.

“I’m deeply honored and excited to bring this incredible story of these badass female warriors to life.” She tweeted, “Get ready for THE WOMAN KING, exclusively in movie theaters this fall!!”

Davis’ upcoming projects also include Showtime’s highly anticipated White House drama titled ‘The First Lady,’ in which she plays the former first lady Michelle Obama.

‘The Woman King’ will premiere in theaters on September 16.