Apple TV+ today released the official trailer for its big December movie, Emancipation. The film, which stars Will Smith, was expected to be a top contender for this year’s awards, although Jada Pinkett Smith’s husband’s Oscar slap in the face somewhat damaged his reputation and therefore his chances. Despite the controversy, Apple is clearly confident the film will be a hit with audiences, and has chosen not to push back its release date.
A strong film to come on TV+
The film is inspired by the life of famous slave Whipped Peter, whose whipping injuries were photographed and widely publicized – these images served as symbols of the abolitionist movement to end slavery in America.
© AppleTV+
Will Smith obviously stars as Whipped Peter, with the film depicting his impossible journey to escape captivity. Antoine Fuqua is the director.
“Emancipation” tells the triumphant story of Peter (Will Smith), a man who escapes slavery, relying on his wits, unwavering faith and deep love for his family to escape cold-blooded hunters and to the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana in his quest for freedom. The film is inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter”, taken during a Union Army medical examination and first published in Harper’s Weekly. One of the images, known as ‘The Scourged Back’, which shows Peter’s bare back mangled by the whippings of his slavers, helped build public opposition to slavery .
Watch the trailer released on the official Emancipation movie page:
The film will premiere on Apple TV+ on December 9. It will be released in some cinemas a week earlier, in particular to be eligible for awards at various festivals.