The pic will be directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, who most recently directed the critically acclaimed blockbuster, The Old Guard. “The depth and complexity of emotional life, her authentic beauty, and regalness is potent. We were mesmerized by Thuso Mbedu. We wanted Woman King / Nawi to be the vehicle to introduce her on the big screen” said Viola Davis and Julius Tennon of JuVee Productions.

The Woman King is a historical epic inspired by true events that took place in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries. The story follows Nanisca, General of the all-female military unit, and Nawi, an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honor, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for.“

Thuso is a generational talent. Her craft, her work ethic, her depth, her passion inspired us all and I cannot wait to play. She is a warrior,” said Prince-Bythewood. Dana Stevens penned the script and the film is being produced by Cathy Schulman though her Welle Entertainment along Davis and Tennon of JuVee Productions and Maria Bello of Jack Blue Productions. Nicole Brown and Shary Shirazi are overseeing the project for TriStar Pictures.

The International Emmy-Award nominated South African actress is already expected to be one of the big breakouts of 2021 as she set to star in Amazon and Barry Jenkins’ The Underground Railroad.  The project will bow on May 14 is based on Colson Whitehead’s best-selling novel, which won both the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. Jenkins hand-picked for the part of Cora, one of the lead roles, making her the first South African actress to lead a US/International series.

Already an established actress in South Africa, Thuso has been nominated twice for an International Emmy Award for Best Performance by an Actress for her work on the South African series Is’Thunzi. Mbedu is repped by Creative Partners Group, ICM Partners and Gang, Tyre, Ramer Brown Passman.