The king has returned. Will Smith’s latest film is a frank, rousing look at the life of a runaway slave evading ruthless catchers in the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana.
Smith is unflinching in his portrayal of ‘Whipped Peter,’ a man fighting for his freedom and a return to his family. Through gnashed teeth and broken limbs, he hopes for a reunion that seems incredibly unlikely.
He’s hunted by Fassel (Ben Foster), a man with no scruples. Foster is magnificent in a very tough role; that of a slave catcher who’ll stop at nothing to bring Peter to his knees.
Charmaine Bingwa plays Dodienne, Peter’s wife, with a torrent of passion and care. She’s left behind to care for their children and keep the hope of his return alive. This is a breakout role for Bingwa, and I wouldn’t be surprised if an Oscar nomination is next.
Director Antoine Fuqua pulls no punches. Each scene is sobering and hyper realistic. His attention to detail is unmatched, as so many in the cast told us during red carpet interviews.
The script is based off a photograph of the aforementioned Whipped Peter. A Union army medical examination photo shows his latticed, shredded back, and contributed to growing public opposition to slavery.
Emancipation is out today via Apple TV. It’s essential viewing, and I’m very grateful these artists came together to tell this story.
