I love being around her, says Viola Davis, speaking fondly of Thuso Mbedu

Acclaimed US actress Viola Davis left South Africans brimming with pride after gushing about award-winning actress Thuso Mbedu and hailing her talent after Mbedu graced the cover of “Essence” magazine.

The popular pair star together in the highly-anticipated historical film, “The Woman King”.

“To me Thuso is translucent talent. Light comes through in every shade and that is how I see her emotional life come through with this character of Nawi. It is that immediacy. It's that accessibility that only a few have. And I think it's the building block of a very incredible actor. I also find Thuso to have incredible integrity. And I find her to be someone who absolutely works hard,” said Davis.

She further expressed how much she loves working with South African actress.

The acting talent has been visiting American shows sharing their experience of shooting the film.

When the movie was announced last year it created a spark of excitement, particularly about the list of skilful actors featured in it.

Though this piece of art is being cheered globally, for South Africa, the vibrancy has been on another level because of the local heavyweights who form part of the crew.

This includes internationally acclaimed actress Thuso Mbedu, renowned actor Siv Ngesi, former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, Seputla Sebogodi, Thando Dlomo, Masali Baduza, Makgotso M, Monyemorathoe and Cebelihle Mbambo.

This much-anticipated film was inspired by true events. The story follows Nanisca (Davis), the general of an all-female military unit, and Nawi (Mbedu), an ambitious recruit. The duo together will take on their enemies who violated their honour, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for. John Boyega stars as Dahomey’s ruler, King Ghezo.

The film is scheduled to be released in theatres this month by Sony Pictures.