Beyoncé Will Reportedly Write and Star in Her Own Movie Based on South Africa's "Hottentot Venus"

The movie is about the tragic story of Saartjie Baartman.

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Complex Original

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Beyoncé has her sights set on winning an Oscar, as she reportedly plans on writing and starring in her own movie about Saartjie Baartman, a South African woman who was displayed in London freak shows during the 1800s and nicknamed "Hottentot Venus" because of her large bottom.

According to The Sun, Beyoncé has recruited a staff of acting coaches and writers to help bring Baartman’s story to life. During her time as a performer, Baartman was involved in a court case where she felt forced to exhibit her body against her will. However, she ended up losing. It's these moments of her life and more that Beyoncé plans to bring out on the big screen.

Sources say Beyoncé wants to be taken seriously as an actress. She believes writing a screenplay and taking on the leading role will allow her to gain the respect of the film industry. Sources also note she’s been doing a lot of research through books on Baartman, and wants to make sure she tells her story the right way.

Beyoncé hasn’t announced when we’ll be seeing the project. But as an already accomplished artist in music, we know she’ll be striving for perfection to hopefully win an Academy Award someday.

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