By Ed Sum
(The Vintage Tempest)
Legendary Comics
Available to order on Amazon USA
Spoiler Alert
Going beyond the Women’s suffrage movement, Elizabeth Wilkinson dared to defy gender roles by being one of the world’s first lady boxers in 18th Century London. This lass couldn’t make enough shilling to support herself and Tess, her sister, in a world was primarily run by men. These chauvinists believed their place was at the home and were “servants.” Liz disliked her place in society and had no trouble butting heads in her attempt to become recognized as a fighting champion.
I can’t help but be reminded of Chick Fight, which stars Malin Akerman, Bella Thorne and Dulcé Sloan in a different type of story. Writer/director Paul Leyden may well have been influenced by this historical figure. The ideas are the same–we have a heroine who must prove her worth not only to herself but also amongst her peers, fellow fighters who are male and female. When Wilkinson formally issued a challenge to Hannah Hyfield, a foe she’s not ready to face (much like in the movie with Akerman’s character to Thorne) she needs a seasoned pro to teach her the finer points of gladiatorial combat.
Continue reading “Fighting Her Way to the Top. Liz Wilkinson, Championess”