In 1823 The Kingdom Of Dahomey in Western Africa is under threat from slave traders and the Oyo Kingdom to the east. Dahomey is protected though by the fearsome all female Agojie warriors who are led by General Nanisca (Viola Davis) who will fight for their way of life.

After an opening battle that leaves her troops depleted, Nanisca decides the Agojie need an influx of young, smart warriors. One of those newcomers, Nawi (Thuso Mbedu) will be our guide to the ways of this female army along with her drill sergeant equivalent Izogie (Lashana Lynch). Nanisca meanwhile will be trying to impart her influence on their new King (John Boyega) over the fact that she believes their part in the slave trade is poisoning their souls. Nanisca also is troubled by a prophetic dream that she shares with her best friend and second in command Amenza (Sheila Atim). All whilst the armies of the Oyo gather and conspire with slave traders at the nearby port.

As a result there are a lot of plots juggling at once whilst trying to ensure some semblance of historical accuracy. One of the best indicators of a historical film is that it prompts the viewer to do some further research and The Woman King certainly managed that for me. The result is that the basics of this story are correct but of course all the characters are composites and creative ways in which to assemble an intriguing story. The underlying story about how African tribes contributed to the slave trade by capturing and selling their rivals is fascinating and one worth exploring but the real heart of the film is in the relationships between the women of the Agojie.

The absolute best facets of the film are in the performances and the relationships between the characters. Viola Davis is of course a force to be reckoned with as she is in all of her films. It is a hugely powerful performance that conveys love, pain and a fierce loyalty for her people. Her character’s relationship with Sheila Atim’s Amenza grounds her as a human being rather than just a warrior general and Atim does a great job with a small role. Another great double act can be found in Thuso Mbedu’s Nawi and Lashana Lynch’s Izogie. Mbedu gives a fantastic break out performance able to impart a coming of age insecurity of a woman looking to find herself and be part of something. Whilst Lynch adds some comedy and fun to the group as the drill sergeant with a heart of gold. John Boyega meanwhile does not fall into any clichés of a king with a divine right to rule. His King appears to have integrity but one who is not immune to being swayed to the dark side if it will cement his power.

It is not perfect though. For me the battle sequences are undone somewhat with the effects work and occasional difficulty in understanding what is happening thanks to some erratic editing. Thankfully they have the weight and brutality to fit the theme. Whilst some of the multiple plotlines can stretch credibility in their efforts to make a point. All are things that can be forgiven thanks to the many things to enjoy.

An enjoyable historical epic with some fascinating subject matter.