Crowds at the Omni Dallas hotel were in a dither Saturday to catch a glimpse of Jennifer Hudson at the Dallas premiere of Winnie Mandela. The beauty was all smiles for the public movie screening, which was part of the first International Faith and Family Film Festival during MegaFest.
The film, presented by T. D. Jakes and produced by Andre Pieterse and Michael Mosca, tells the story of Winnie Mandela, wife of Nelson Mandela (played by Terrence Howard), as she fights for the freedom of her husband and her people during the time of apartheid. The film also explores her own solitary confinement and ability to overcome various obstacles in her personal life.
The film originally premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2011, and Hudson is excited to finally share the story of Winnie Mandela in the states.
“I feel like it’s a part of all of our history, and it made a huge difference to the world,” Hudson said. “Without her contribution and fight, where would we be? It’s huge shoes to fill, and it’s a gift in a way. The movie made me have a new appreciation for my freedom. It gave more meaning to it, ya know?”
Joining Hudson on the red carpet were Robert Townsend, Holly Robinson Peete, Earnest Pugh, Keith Williams andKevin Frazier. omg! Insider host Frazier moderated a Q&A with Hudson following the screening.
Winnie Mandela is slated to open in theaters September 6.
Jennifer Hudson
