Kerry Washington’s upcoming role as an army captain is part of a campaign to bring some long-needed exposure and recognition to some often-overlooked heroines of World War II. This was the first and only Women’s Army Corps unit of color in that conflict. There were 855 Black women and women of color in the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. They had to sort through a mail backlog that dated back three years and try to get the right letters to the correct soldiers as part of an effort to improve morale. Plus, they were doing this while fighting overt, sometimes ugly racial discrimination. Washington portrays Charity Adams, the woman in charge of the unit in “The Six Triple Eight,” an upcoming Netflix production from writer/director/producer Tyler Perry.
The film is based on journalist Kevin M. Hymel’s article, “Fighting A Two-Front War” that was featured in WWII History Magazine. It’s also Perry’s fourth Netflix film, and one that may at least stem, if not completely halt, criticism over content, casting and direction in some past Perry projects.
Publicity materials say the film is “inspired by the first and only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve overseas in WWII. Despite facing racism and sexism — and grueling working conditions — they were committed to serving their country with honor and distinction. Given an extraordinary mission and united in their determination, these unsung heroes delivered hope and shattered barriers.” Others in the impressive cast include Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, Kylie Jefferson, Shanice Shantay, Sarah Jeffery, Pepi Sonuga, Moriah Brown, Jeanté Godlock, Jay Reeves, Jeffery Johnson, Baadja-Lyne Odums, Donna Biscoe, Gregg Sulkin, Scott Daniel Johnson, Susan Sarandon, Dean Norris, Sam Waterston and Oprah Winfrey.
Producers are Nicole Avant, Angi Bones, Tony L. Strickland, Keri Selig, Carlota Espinosa and Perry, while Peter Guber and Washington are executive producers.
Netflix will give “The Six Triple Eight” some exposure in select theaters nationwide beginning Dec. 6. Then it will stream on Netflix beginning Dec. 20.
Copyright TNTRIBUNE 2024. All rights reserved.
