The Woman Kingmade its way into theaters last week on Sept. 16, receiving favorable reviews from audiences and critics alike. The historical epic is inspired by true events that took place in the Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa, throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.The Woman KingstarsViola Davis, Lashana Lynch, Sheila Atim, John Boyega, along with Julius Tennon.
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The Woman Kingsaw a $20 million debut at the box office during its opening weekend. However, Sony Pictures Entertainment believes they can recoup theirrumored $50 million budgetas the film spreads through word of mouth and multiple viewings. During an interview withVariety, Viola Davis and Julius Tennon discussed the success of their latest movie and why they aren’t surprised with the results. Davis says, “It feels like I never doubted thatThe Woman Kingwould land because it landed with me. It landed with Gina [Prince-Bythewood]. It landed with Julius,” the Oscar-winning actress said. “It’s an undeniable, powerful story. The way we see numbers today is not the way we see the numbers. I think people have a tendency to say, we only represent a certain percentage of the box office.” She continues, “We know Black women. We know they’re going to bring people they work with, spouses and families, and come back five or six times during the weekend. We are in an industry that doesn’t see the power Black women have at the global box office.”
Fans can seeThe Woman King, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and written by Dana Stevens and Maria Bello, in theaters now.
Viola Davis Would Be Down for a Sequel toThe Woman King
In the world of never-ending sequels and remakes,The Woman Kingstars Viola Davis, and Julius Tennon agree they would love to return for a second take on the movie. During their Variety interview, the pair are asked whether they could see themselves returning to their roles at some point, despite a lack of discussion regarding a sequel thus far. Davis says, “Well, you know, it feels like we could [do a sequel]. We haven’t had any discussions about it as of yet.”
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Julius Tennon admits his age is catching up to him in the first installment, but he’s always down for more time withThe Woman King. “I’m open to more, but let me tell you. I already was the oldest warrior on the battlefield,' he jokes. “If we do a sequel, I’m hoping I still have teeth [laughs], but yes, I’m totally open to it. Wide open. Always.”
Viola Davis is keeping busy as always, as she’s set to make an appearance in the highly anticipated filmBlackAdamalongside Dwayne Johnson. In addition, she will head to the world ofThe Hunger Gameswhen she stars inThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, a prequel based on the book by Suzanne Collins.The Woman Kingis nearing its second weekend in theaters, so check out the Kingdom of Dahomey while you still can.
