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Will Smith received the first award for his upcoming film “Emancipation” at the African American Film Critics Association Awards 2023, after the controversy that arose following the film’s exclusion from the 2022 Oscars. The film, which depicts the brutal reality of slavery in the United States, has been highly anticipated by audiences and critics alike.
In his acceptance speech, Will Smith spoke about the significance of the film and the importance of telling stories that represent the experiences of marginalized communities. He thanked the AAFCA for their support and recognition, stating that it meant a lot to him to receive this award.
Smith said, “Emancipation’ was the individual most difficult film of my entire career. It was all outdoors, that is true.”
He also stated, “It was the second day of shooting and 110 degrees… I was in a scene with one of the white actors. The actor decided to ad-lib. So we’re doing the scene. I did my line. He did his line. And then – ad lib – he spit in the middle of my chest.” And he further added, “The actor felt that the ad-lib had gone well. So we do take two. I do my line. He does his line – and spits in the middle of my chest again… In the distance, I hear a voice. And Antoine says, ‘Hey, let’s do a take without the spit.’ And in that moment, I knew that God was real.”
Despite the controversy, “Emancipation” has continued to generate buzz and anticipation among audiences. The film is set to be released later this year and is expected to have a powerful impact on audiences, continuing the conversation about the importance of diversity and inclusion in the film industry.