Emancipation is a 2022 drama movie directed by Antoine Fuqua starring Will Smith.
A period piece based on a true story that brings us up and close to extreme suffering and the resilience required to overcome extreme events. Will Smith proves, yet again, that he has the ability to get into character with unquestionable talent and dedication, and with intensity.
Premise
Inspired by the gripping true story of a man who would do anything for his family—and for freedom. When Peter, an enslaved man, risks his life to escape and return to his family, he embarks on a perilous journey of love and endurance.
Movie Review
A movie that is beautifully produced, with evocative photography. It is a hefty and very dramatic feature that does not shy away from showing the most grueling sides of mankind. It was not intended to be taken lightly, so if you are seeking a cheer-me-upper this is not it.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a two hour long feature of pain and suffering (think ‘Blonde’ – pardon the comparison), with exquisite photography, performances and editing, ‘Emancipation’ might be what you are looking for.
Will Smith takes center stage, and his performance is commendable, albeit very intense. However, he proves once again that he has mastered the art of acting.
Our Opinion
An impressive production, stylistically immaculate that goes up and close both visually and narratively. It is an intense viewing experience that demands something of the spectator.
Release Date
December 9, 2022
Where to Watch ‘Emancipation’
Director
Antoine Fuqua
Fuqua began his career directing music videos for popular artists such as Toni Braxton, Coolio, Stevie Wonder, and Prince. From 1998 onwards, he began directing feature films, although he has worked on a few music videos since then. In a tribute article for TIME magazine, Fuqua expressed his early respect for Kurosawa as a filmmaker and how Kurosawa influenced his own perspective on filmmaking stating: “(screenwriter Hashimoto’s) … working with Akira Kurosawa and Hideo Oguni, was so beautiful and poetic and powerful and heartbreaking. It was all about justice, it was all about sacrifice, and it made me want to be one of those guys”.
Cast
 Will Smith |  Ben Foster |
 Charmaine Bingwa |  Steven Ogg |
 Gilbert Owuor |  Mustafa Shakir |
 Grant Harvey |  Ronnie Gene Blevins |
See full credits >>
