Emancipation

'Emancipation' tells the triumphant story of Peter (Will Smith), a man who escapes from slavery, relying on his wits, unwavering faith and deep love for his family to evade cold-blooded hunters and the unforgiving swamps of Louisiana on his quest for freedom. The film is inspired by the 1863 photos of 'Whipped Peter', taken during a Union Army medical examination, that first appeared in Harper's Weekly. One image, known as 'The Scourged Back', which shows Peter's bare back mutilated by a whipping delivered by his enslavers, ultimately contributed to growing public opposition to slavery.

'Emancipation' is directed by Antoine Fuqua, the screenplay is from William N. Collage. The film is produced by Will Smith and Jon Mone through Westbrook Studios, Joey McFarland through McFarland Entertainment, and Todd Black through Escape Artists. Chris Brigham, Antoine Fuqua, James Lassiter, Heather Washington, Cliff Roberts, Glen Basner and Scott Greenberg serve as executive producers.

Will Smith stars 'Emancipation' alongside Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa, Gilbert Owuor, Mustafa Shakir, Steven Ogg, Grant Harvey Ronnie and Gene Blevins.

The film will be available in selected cinemas of the United States December 2 and worldwide via Apple TV+ on December 9.

• Drama