Jennifer Hudson was all smiles at T. D. Jakes’ Megafest that Winnie Mandela, the new biopic that explores the freedom fighter’s life for South African equality, has a Sept. 6 release date.
“It’s crazy. It took a couple of years for ‘Winnie’ and it’s ironic that it comes out now with the other films right behind it. I’ve been working really hard so I’m happy that these films will be seen,” Hudson told Blackfilm.com.
Although the film features Academy Award winner Hudson (Dreamgirls) and nominee Terrence Howard, the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival to bad reviews. The film explores Winnie and Nelson Mandela‘s “untold love story” while focusing on Winnie’s contributions to South Africa’s fight for equality. Winnie Mandela criticized her portrayal in the film. Both issues caused a two year delay in the stateside release of the film.
Over the weekend, the film premiered in Dallas at first International Faith and Family Film Festival.
Fans anticipating Hudson’s third album, can be assured she has recorded new music for Winnie. The Diane Warren ballad “Bleeding for Love” from the film’s soundtrack was released to coincide with the release.
