India produces more movies than any other country in the world, and every month on the AMC Scene, we will highlight one of Indian Cinema’s hottest new releases that will make you laugh, cry or sing along — sometimes all three. Read on to learn more about the title we’re spotlighting this month.

THE WARRIOR QUEEN OF JHANSI stars Devika Bhise as feminist icon and fearless freedom fighter Rani Lakshmibai. The period drama centers on the young queen as she led her people into battle against the British in 1857.

In 1848, the British created a policy to only recognize natural born heirs as leaders of princely states like Jhansi. But Rani wasn't of royal blood, and her only biological child with her late husband, the ruler of Jhansi, had died. They had adopted another child, but the British refused to grant him authority.

At the same time, an uprising against the British was growing stronger and spreading from town to town. When the rebels reached Jhansi, they massacred dozens of British. Rani was blamed; tensions quickly boiled over; and the British stormed Rani's fortress and killed between 3,000–5,000 people.

Rani escaped, and with no other choice, she geared up for battle. THE WARRIOR QUEEN OF JHANSI shows how she trained an army of men and women to fight in what is now known as India’s first battle for independence. Her insurrection shifted the balance of power in the region and set in motion the demise of the notorious British East India Company and the beginning of the British Raj under Queen Victoria.

From beginning to end, THE WARRIOR QUEEN OF JHANSI offers a unique perspective of female empowerment and leadership in the late 1800s, which was virtually unheard of at the time. Star Devika Bhise also co-wrote the script with her mother, Swati Bhise, who also directed the film.

In an interview with India Today, Swati said, "For me she [Rani Lakshmibai] is not just Indian. The experience and challenge a woman faces anywhere is a lesson. She worked with what she had. She was not born into royalty. The film implores women to take a more active role."

Get your tickets to THE WARRIOR QUEEN OF JHANSI at AMC today.