Viola Davis shares first look at 'The Woman King' starring Thuso Mbedu

Viola Davis says she is "excited" for people to see her new movie, 'The Woman King', later this year. The film stars South African actress Thuso Mbedu.

'The Woman King' is about an all-female military unit from The Kingdom of Dahomey in West Africa. The movie is reportedly based on true events. Thuso plays a new recruit named Nawi.

Viola took to Instagram this week to give her fans a first look at the film. She shared two pictures of her character, General Nanisca, in action.   

"I’m deeply honored and excited to bring this incredible story of these badass female warriors to life. Get ready for THE WOMAN KING, exclusively in movie theaters this Fall!" the 56-year-old wrote. 

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Former Miss Universe, Zozibini Tunzi, will also be making an appearance. Other local stars that have been cast in the film include Masali Baduza, Seputla Sebogodi, Thando Dhlomo, and Makgotso Monyemorathoe. 

Academy Award-winner Lupita Nyong'o was reportedly also set to star in the film as Nawi. The role eventually went to Thuso. Lashana Lynch, John Boyega, and Hero Fiennes Tiffin are also part of the cast. 

Parts of the movie were filmed in South Africa. According to Variety, 'The Woman King' will debut on the big screen in September 2022.

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Main image courtesy of Instagram/@thuso.mbedu