John Boyega has been announced as the latest name to join Gina Prince-Bythewood’s ‘The Woman King.’
Boyega joins Viola Davis, Lashana Lynch and ‘The Underground Railroad’ star Thuso Mbedu on the cast.
Inspired by true events that took place in the Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. The story follows Nanisca (Davis), general of the all-female military unit, and Nawi (Mbedu), an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honour, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for.
Boyega will play Dahomey’s ruler, King Ghezo. Dana Stevens wrote the original screenplay with the current draft being by Stevens and Prince-Bythewood.
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“I have been enamoured by John’s immense talent for years, but his speech to Black women during the protests cemented my desire to work with him,” said Prince-Bythewood in a statement. “The description of King Ghezo reads, ‘He walks as if the earth were honoured by its burden.’ John possesses that innate depth and swagger, and I’m so excited to put it on screen.”
Cathy Schulman is producing via her Welle Entertainment, Davis and Julius Tennon via JuVee Productions, and Maria Bello via her banner, Jack Blue.
Boyega was last seen in Steve McQueen-directed drama ‘Small Axe’ for BBC and Amazon. His upcoming films include the sci-fi thriller ‘They Cloned Tyrone’, with Jamie Foxx, and indie drama ‘892.’
