Will Smith slapping Chris Rock on live television during the 94th Academy Awards was not something the world had anticipated witnessing, yet the situation has become a much bigger deal than people thought it would be. Will Smith’s new movie, Emancipation, was scheduled for release in Fall 2022, but has been moved to 2023 since the incident occurred. However, as the controversy started to die down over the last few months, Apple TV+ has decided to release the movie this coming winter. Emancipation will be the first ever movie, starring Will Smith, to be released after the infamous slap that occurred back in March, and no one knows if the movie will turn out successful.

According to Apple, Emancipation is based on a true story, inspired by the 1863 photos of “Whipped Peter”which shows a graphic image of whip marks on the back of an enslaved man known as Peter. Emancipation revolves around the story of Peter, played by Smith, in which he attempts to run away from a Louisiana plantation to join the North Union Army. Smith relies on his wits, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family in order to motivate himself.

Apple spent $120 million on the production of Emancipation. The movie is rumoured to be an eligible Oscar winner. Because of that, Apple has moved the release date of the movie to December 2022, which is right in time for award eligibility. Despite being banned from the Academy for 10 years, Smith still has a chance to win another Oscar award. However, he would not be able to physically receive the award, or even retrieve it through a virtual phone call. 

It’s unclear how the public will react to the movie, as many people have had different opinions regarding the Smith-Rock slap situation. Until then, award season will determine whether the movie will turn out successful or not. Emancipation is scheduled to be released in theaters on December 2nd, 2022, and will be available globally on Apple TV+ on December 9, 2022.