UK Premiere of “Emancipation” in London with the Return of Actor Will Smith – Red Carpet Arrivals

December 2022 – London, UK – Bader Content Studios was on the red carpet for the UK premiere of “Emancipation” which tells the triumphant story of Peter, played by 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.

The movie marks Smith’s first film after he slapped comedian Chris Rock onstage at the Oscar in March, resulting in his resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences which results in a ban from attending its award ceremonies for the next 10 years.

In July, Smith posted a video to multiple social media platforms apologizing to Rock for what happened admitting that he had been “out of line” and his “actions were not indicative of the man I want to be.”

“I’ve reached out to Chris and the message that came back is that he’s not ready to talk, and when he is he will reach out,” Smith said. “So I will say to you, Chris, I apologize to you. My behavior was unacceptable, and I’m here whenever you’re ready to talk.”

He also wrote about letting down fans due to his actions, saying, “it hurts me psychologically and emotionally to know I didn’t live up to people’s image and impression of me.”

“I know it was confusing, I know it was shocking, but I promise you I am deeply devoted and committed to putting light and love and joy into the world,” he said.

Emancipation is currently playing at select theaters and will premiere on Apple TV+.