I was kindly invited to see an early preview of The Woman King at BFI IMAX almost a week before release. It was definitely one of the best invites I’ve had all year.
I can’t remember the last time I went to BFI IMAX but what a film to experience on the biggest screen in the UK with 3D surround sound. The Woman King is epic, immersive and grand; it’s a true spectacle. Viola Davis takes charge to become to The Woman King by training young African women to fight the war in West Africa. We also see John Boyega in one of his finest roles delivering a fantastic performance. The chemistry between Lashana Lynch’s character and Thuso Mbedu’ character is chilling, witty and unmatched. They were inseparable the entire film and bought many laughs and cheers to all those in the cinema. Just like the chemistry between Viola Davis’ and Shelia Atim’s character who seem more like sisters rather than best friends. They share everything with each other from jokes and serious conversations. Nawi played by Thuso Mbedu does such a great job as the leader and champion of the competition; she really holds her own among the rest of her competitors.
The Woman King does a great job capturing African culture from the visual designs, language, costume, music, lifestyle and more. It was a joy to watch and hope to see many films with this level of care and attention to this incredible culture which deserves so much more.
The Woman King releases 4th October in the UK. Make sure you go see it in IMAX.
9/10
Written by P Rose