TONIGHT WITH TRAV RATES “THE WOMAN KING” WITH…

Film Synopsis: A historical epic inspired by the true events that happened in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa, in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Trav’s Critique On “THE WOMAN KING” ➡️I’m actually staring at my laptop screen right now as I am thinking about what to write about The Woman King. What to write about Viola Davis’ performance as General Nanisca. What to write about …everything. I have ONE great line to say about Viola Davis that I think any that will read my review will 100% agree with – and it is this: we ALL saw the Queen, Viola Davis be the Woman King!

If you’ve got a little smile on your face; or even a smirk right now – it’s warranted! I have had chills and actually premonitions about this movie receiving the PROPER notoriety that it is due, and it is NOT because it is based on true events. Well, that is not entirely true. There is ONE factual true event that I must base it on – and that is: getting the recognition that Viola Davis has NEVER stopped fighting for – the equality for African American actors; both males and females. I don’t think that anyone will ever forget her speech that she made at the 2017 Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actress. I truly believe that when she was fighting in the Woman King, she was fighting for ALL of the African Americans in the world who have been fighting and struggling in this world.

She is truly influential individual that I will always look up to, admire, respect. She is a leading actress in my book and in any category. If I ever had an opportunity to meet her in person, I think that I would just be in awe and total amazement that I would stand in front of her, grab her hands and simply say, thank you. Thank you for uplifting me with your words, your films, in particular, The Woman King, your actions. You truly embody an individual with grace, style, and individuality because there is no one else like you who speaks her truth, knows who she is, and what she wants, and prevails. No matter what obstacles may come your way – you overcome them and keep fighting.

Everything that I have just said – I have talked about the character that she played in The Woman King. Her character, Nanisca was strong, powerful, deserving for greatness, overcame obstacles, fought for what was right, believed in herself. Who else does that sound like? Yes, Viola Davis!!! No wonder she was picked for the lead role in this film! I just know this film will get many nominations and so will Viola. Even if she does not win any awards or Oscars – just the fact that her work in this film is recognized and the fact that she is more than a master at her skilled craft is gratitude enough for me!

There is a line in the film where Nanisca says to Nawi: “to be a warrior, you must kill your tears.” Do YOU personally believe that? Do you see that as a sign of weakness? There is another line in the film that sticks with me. Izogie tells Nawi: “you are stronger than you even know and points to her heart -then tells her not to let anyone take that power away from you because love makes you weak.” Again, I ask YOU – do you believe that? Personally speaking, every person is different, but logic and reason go out of the window when love gets involved. In some instances, love can heal and save others whereas on the flip side of that coin, love can destroy because if Izogie told Nawi that – love must have had a negative impact on her? Correct?

On the remark that Nanisca made about being a great warrior & killing your tears – I believe that is partially true. Of course, no one should never cry in battle or show any sign of weakness. That is the NUMBER ONE rule, but once you are alone and in the company of your fellow sisters as Nawi was, it is alright to be vulnerable and speak your truth. Having strength is something that a person has to learn and develop over time; it takes both physical and mental endurance – it does not happen overnight.

There are a lot of factors that come into play and discipline is something that is definitely needed in order to have strength. There are always times and places to show your strength and your plan. You should NEVER let your opponent see any sign of weakness on your part and that includes your tears or fears even if you are nervous about anything. Nanisca was 1,000% right on that when she told Nawi that. It is better to be honest than to lie and sugarcoat things.