Emancipation

Emancipation is inspired by the 1863 photograph of 'Whipped Peter,' a runaway slave whose severely scarred back became a symbol of the brutality of slavery. The film aims to humanize Peter beyond the iconic image and provide a more nuanced understanding of his life and motivations during a pivotal moment in American history.

• Will Smith delivers a compelling and emotionally resonant performance as Peter, showcasing his resilience and determination in the face of unimaginable adversity.
• The film's cinematography and visual storytelling are stunning, vividly depicting the brutal realities of slavery and the beauty of the Louisiana landscapes.
• The narrative explores powerful themes of faith, family, freedom, and the indomitable human spirit, making it a thought-provoking and inspiring experience.
• The action sequences are thrilling and suspenseful, effectively conveying the dangers and challenges Peter faces as he fights for his survival and freedom.

Fun Facts

• The film's production was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to delays and changes in filming locations.
• While the film is based on a real person and historical events, certain details and plot elements have been fictionalized for dramatic purposes.
• Will Smith learned some basic French to realistically portray his character who lives in Louisiana and deals with creole speakers.