Thuso Mbedu, internationally acclaimed South African Actress, born and bred in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, visited her hometown and province ahead of the premiere of The Woman King, in which she makes her film debut opposite lead actress Viola Davis.
KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission (KZNFC), Durban Film Office, eThekwini Municipality and Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) partnered to host a true KZN homecoming for Mbedu, her co-star, British actor and producer, John Boyega and other cast members of the movie which will be released tomorrow (October 1) in South Africa.
The Women King, an upcoming American historical epic film, inspired by true events and the Agojie all female warrior unit which protected the West African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 19th century. It was shot in South Africa and KZN particularly Jozini. Thuso stars as Nawi in film.
“This is an exciting moment when the daughter of KZN soil comes home to celebrate her achievements with the nation. As the Film Commission and our partners, we are thrilled to host our talent,” said KZNFC Acting CEO Victor Senna.
In a tightly packed two-day itinerary, the stars met with the heads of partner organisations, media, overnighted at Nambithi game reserve in Ladysmith, and Mbedu, Boyega thrilled learners of Pelham primary school, Mbedu’s primary school.
“This is a great partnership between provincial and local government to show the world that KZN is back in action. This was the perfect opportunity to showcase our province to a global audience and assure international filmmakers that KZN is the ideal tourism and film destination. The cast of this movie are much loved and celebrated stars in some of our key international markets like Nigeria, UK, and the USA, which makes this a perfect partnership,” concluded Senna.
The superstars attended the premiere screening of The Woman King at Gateway Theatre on Friday evening attended by over 400 invited guests.
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