The Woman in Green

The film opens with the kingdom of Dahomey establishing Ghezo as their new king in 1823. Their enemies, the Oyo Empire and Mahi people, ally to attack Dahomey and capture villagers for the European slave trade. The Oyo's advantage lies in their guns and horses, threatening Dahomey's sovereignty.

The female warriors of Dahomey, the Agojie, locate a Mahi village, infiltrate it, and slaughter the soldiers. They free captured villagers caught in the raid before returning home at dawn. The warriors mourn their fallen comrades and escort the villagers back to safety.

A young woman, Nawi, is brought to the king's court after her father offers her for marriage to a brutish man. She refuses the marriage, fights back, and is taken in by an Agojie soldier, Izogie. Nawi is motivated to join the Agojie after her rejection and initial training begins.

The recruits, including Nawi, undergo rigorous training involving ropes, weapons, running, and combat drills. Nanisca, the general, oversees their progress and begins mentoring Nawi, recognizing her potential despite difficulties. Nawi struggles with heavy weapons but shows resilience.

Nawi sets off a small explosion as a prank during training, earning Nanisca's correction. Later, Nanisca confides in Amenza about her past, revealing she was a captive and a product of rape, and that she gave up her daughter long ago. Nanisca relates to Nawi’s struggle for survival.

The Oyo, led by General Oba Ade, arrive at Dahomey's gates, demanding tributes and threatening war. Nanisca recognizes Oba Ade as her rapist, leading to shock and tension. Ghezo refuses to surrender warriors, escalating the conflict.

Portuguese settlers led by Captain Santo Ferreira arrive in Dahomey, discussing trade. Malik, a man with a Dahomey connection, is introduced. He is horrified at the slave trade, revealing internal conflicts about his roots and the kingdom’s reliance on slavery.

The Agojie trainees, including Nawi, participate in an obstacle course challenge. Nawi wins, impressing Ghezo and Nanisca. The event showcases their combat skills and Nawi’s potential as a warrior, earning recognition and confidence.

Nanisca and Nawi share a moment where Nanisca reveals she once gave up her child, who she suspects is Nawi. Nanisca’s emotional confession confirms Nawi’s identity as her long-lost daughter, linking her to the legacy of violence and survival.

The Oyo launch a surprise attack, resulting in a fierce, bloody battle. The Agojie suffer losses, including Izogie who is fatally wounded. Nawi helps her sister during captivity, and Nanisca plans to retaliate to defend their kingdom.

Nanisca leads a daring assault on a European slaver camp to rescue captives destined for England. They set fire to the camp and engage in brutal combat. Malik sacrifices himself to ensure the captives' freedom in a climactic act of heroism.

Nawi faces off against Oba Ade, Nanisca’s abuser, in a brutal duel. Nanisca overpowers and kills him, ending his threat. The victory marks a turning point for Dahomey’s independence and Nanisca’s leadership.

The Agojie return victorious, with escaped captives and a victorious Nanisca. Ghezo promotes Nanisca to Woman King for her bravery. Nawi, recognized as Nanisca’s daughter, joins in the celebration and they share a moment of familial pride.