Iola Davis has said she wants her new film The Woman King to encourage people to “tap the warrior spirit in them.”
The film is inspired by the true story of the Agojie, an all-female army who fought to protect the West African kingdom of Dahomey with their formidable skills.
Oscar winner Davis57, stars as General Nanisca, who trains the next generation of recruits and prepares them for battle against an enemy determined to destroy their way of life.
Speaking on the red carpet of the film’s UK premiere in central London, Davis told the PA news agency: “My great thing is that the message is yours, whatever you receive, however it touches your heart and your mind. touches.
“I always want people to tap into the warrior spirit in them. I talk about that a lot. That part of you that hits that road in life and you have to find a way to survive.
“And especially as women in this day and age, and everyone is trying to control our lives and we’ve been told we’re less than.
“Then make use of that inner strength and that inner warrior fuel. That is a beautiful message.”
The film, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, has a star-studded cast including: John BoyegaLashana Lynch, Sheila Atim and Thuso Mbedu.
Looking back at the cast of predominantly black women, Davis said this level of representation must continue to grow, as she believes it “can elevate cinema to a level where it has never been elevated.”
She said: “There are many stories of incredible black artists who want to work and show you what they can do.
“All they need is an opportunity. And I think it can elevate cinema to a level it has never been elevated before.”
The film has faced criticism since its release, as some have argued that it minimizes Dahomey’s role in the slave trade.
Davis said, “Most of the people who have that criticism haven’t seen the movie…but most of the people who’ve seen the movie have seen us tackle it.”
Star Wars actor Boyega, who plays King Ghezo, said he finds the “loyalty and duality” between the men and women in the film particularly important.
He told PA that the scenes of the men working alongside the female warriors show “what happens when we all believe in our ability to be powerful and believe in our ability to achieve things and support each other the right way.” “.
“People can be so motivated when we have the right mind and we come together that we can do incredible things. And I think this movie represents that point,” he said.