Will Smith Gives a Breathtaking Performance in ‘Emancipation’

Will Smith is fighting for his freedom in the new gripping film Emancipation. It follows the triumphant journey of an ambitious enslaved man named Peter (Will Smith), whose quest for freedom and reuniting with his family motivates him to escape captivity across the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana. All odds are stacked against him as he attempts to evade capture by hunters, but his unwavering faith allows him to push through. The film stars Charmaine Bingwa as Dodienne, Ben Foster as Jim Fassel, Mustafa Shakir as Lieutenant André Cailloux, Steven Ogg as Howard, Aaron Moten as Knowls, and Imani Pullum as Betsy. It also stars Grant Harvey as Leeds, Ronnie Gene Blevins as Harrington, Jayson Warner Smith as Captain John Lyons, Jabbar Lewis as Tomas, Gilbert Owuor as Gordon, and Michael Luwoye as John.  

Emancipation is inspired by the historic photos of “Whipped Peter” taken in “1863 during a Union Army medical examination, that first appeared in Harper’s Weekly,” according to the synopsis. Many have witnessed the picture, but very few people know the muse’s story, with his bare back exposing the hateful lashings given by his enslavers. The image “The Scourged Back” illustrated the ugly truth behind slavery and provoked public opposition to it. Director Antoine Fuqua and writer William N. Collage have created a masterpiece surrounding this untold story which has been praised as some of the best work of their careers. It just may be an Oscar award contender. 

The debate about whether or not we need another slavery movie has been ongoing. In fact, Will Smith admitted on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah that his daughter asked him that same question. “Daddy, do we really need another slave movie,” she asked. Will Smith responded most profoundly, saying, “Baby, I promise you I wouldn’t make a slave movie. This is a freedom movie.” 

The film is produced by Will Smith and Jon Mone through Westbrook Studios, Joey McFarland through Mcfarland Entertainment, and Todd Black through Escape Artists. It is executive produced by Chris Brigham, James Lassiter, Cliff Roberts, Scott Greenberg, Antoine Fuqua, Heather Washington, and Glen Basner. Emancipation hit theaters yesterday, December 2, and will be available to stream on December 9 on Apple TV+. 

About Apple TV+:

Apple TV+ is a streaming service from Apple. It features Apple Original shows and movies, with new premieres each month. Browse all available content on Apple TV+ inside the Apple TV app.