The Woman King

The facts

• English language
• Runtime: 97 minutes
• A historical action drama set in the 19th century West African kingdom of Dahomey

What’s it about?

The Woman King focuses on Nanisca, the indomitable leader of the Agojie, an all-female royal guard of Dahomey. The Dahomeans are facing a threat from Oba Ade, a general from the dominant Oyo Empire, who are in partnership with slavers from Europe and the Americas.

Why did it get this rating?

The Woman King was due to be cross-rated M in Aotearoa after being rated M in Australia. The Acting Chief Censor called the film in for classification after concerns were raised about the appropriateness of the M rating given the subject matter and the likely audience.

You can find out more about cross-rating here.

Violence

The film contains battle scenes and other action violence where individuals are sliced, stabbed, pierced and shot. Blood effects are limited but bloodied clothing and bodies are depicted.

Much of the strongest violence is implied by sound effects as it takes place just outside the frame. However, there are still some depictions that are likely to be disturbing to children. For example, a man’s neck is twisted in order to snap it, and another man is punched in the face by a fist with a chain wrapped around it.

There is also a scene where severed heads roll out of a basket.

Sexual violence

A historical rape is briefly shown in flashback memories. The depiction is restrained but still affecting. The victim seeks revenge for the attack when she recognises her attacker.

Content that may disturb

The film deals with the 19th century West African slave trade. Victims are shown held in cages and sold at auctions. This material is well contextualised by the narratives and themes.

There are a few scenes that deal with bodily injury such as long spiky thorns penetrating flesh and a broken arm being realigned.

Coarse language

The film contains infrequent use of coarse language such as “bitches” and “bastard”. This language is unlikely to leave a lasting impression on younger viewers.