Apple Original Films’ ‘Emancipation’ picks up newcomer Imani Pullum

Apple Original Films has reportedly signed newcomer Imani Pullum to join the upcoming Apple TV+ movie Emancipation. The movie already has Will Smith, Ben Foster, and more stars signed on.

According to a new Deadline report, the movie is already in production in New Orleans.

The Antoine Fuqua pic currently in production in New Orleans tells the story of Peter (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.

Pullum will play Betsy, Peter’s eldest daughter in what will be her first major studio movie role.

There is currently no date set for when Emancipation will be available for us all to watch, but it’s likely to get both a theatrical and Apple TV+ debut at some point. The movie will add more content to the Apple TV+ streaming service as Apple seeks to make it a bigger player in the global streaming wars. While popular in its own right, the service is dwarfed by the likes of Disney Plus and Netflix.

If you want to enjoy Emancipation in style, be sure to check out our list of the best Apple TV deals on the market today.