Will SmithThe comeback of Rihanna When Dave Chappelleare just two of the notable guests who attended the recent screeningreleaseThe Antoine Fuqua-directed slavery drama marked Smith’s first film release since the 2022 Oscars, slapping host Chris Rock on stage.
A photo posted to Instagram shows Smith at a screening of ‘Emancipation’ alongside Rihanna, Chappelle, Kenya Barris and A$AP Rocky. Smith wrote in the caption: Thank you for coming to see #Emancipation. I hope you enjoy it!!”
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“Emancipation” stars Smith as a runaway slave who came to be known as “Whipper Peter” after a photograph was distributed showing him a keloid scar on his back to demonstrate the atrocities of slavery. The film follows the character of Smith as he navigates the swamps of Louisiana to escape a plantation owner who tries to kill him.
Perry wrote on her Instagram story, “I’m still haunted by ‘Liberation. Thanks for the preview, Smith.”
Barris also posted on Instagram Stories: Will Smith, you got it.
Smith is currently serving a ten-year ban from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for his actions at the 2022 Oscars. The actor posted an apology video in July, calling his behavior “unacceptable.”
“There’s no part where I think it was the right thing to do in that moment,” Smith says in the video, sighing deeply at a point and seemingly holding back tears. I don’t know anyone who thinks it’s the right way.”
Smith added: I contacted Chris and got a message back saying he wasn’t ready to speak.
“Emancipation” will premiere in theaters on December 2nd and stream on Apple TV+ starting December 9th.
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