Viola Davis responds to sensational controversy over ‘King’s Woman Boycott’

Over the weekend, despite no known IP address, franchise connections, or a large fighter jet, woman king Rise to the top of the box office with a Opening of 19 million dollars. It was an unlikely success that might not be as flashy as Avengers: EndgameIt’s a $300 million opening, but it’s exciting to have an original action epic at the top of the box office for a change. One doesn’t even need to watch another movie before seeing it woman king.

However, those who read about the Kingdom of Dahomey before the movie have done so Some concerns. Kingdom of Dahomey which woman king It tells a mostly fictional story, was involved in the slave trade, and online critics of the film accused its portrayal of whitewashing and glorifying slave traders. talk with diverseDavis and her co-star, production partner, and husband Julius Tennon Defend the movie first By expressing the futility of arguing with people on social media.

“I agree with [director] “Gina Prince-Bythwood’s saying is you’re not going to win an argument on Twitter,” Davis said. “We got into the story where the kingdom was in flux, at a crossroads. They were looking for some way to keep their civilization and kingdom alive. They weren’t wiped out until the late 19th century. Most of the story is fictional. It must be.”

Tenon went on to describe the film as “entertaining” and insisted that the production should “enjoy people” because otherwise, “That would be a documentary.” If the movie isn’t fun, and then “People in theaters won’t be doing the same thing we saw this weekend. We didn’t want to be ashamed of the truth. history is enormous, There are facts about that. If people want to know more, they can investigate further.”

Ultimately, Davis insists that the film examines women who were forced into battle or faced death. “They were recruited between the ages of eight and fourteen,” Davis said. The king has recruited them to fight for the kingdom of Dahomey. They were not allowed to marry or have children. Those who refused the call were beheaded.”

Davis doesn’t seem too concerned with the criticism. Earlier this year, she responded to calls for boycotts: “ don’t come to watch it, you’re sending a message that black women can’t drive a window Tickets are worldwide, and you support this narrative.“But talk to diverse, focused on the positivity that she experienced in the audience’s enjoyment. “I watched a TikTok video today of women in a bathroom at the AMC theater, and I don’t think they know each other. They were all cheering and meditating. This can’t be measured in words.”