If you thought Tyler Perry stayed busy just with Madea movies, think again. In 2024 alone he’ll have three films, all dramas, including Mea Culpa, Divorce in the Black, and the upcoming WWII film The Six Triple Eight starring Kerry Washington. That it’s coming out in December should tell you that Netflix has pretty high aspirations for the film about an unsung battalion comprised of Black women.
Based on Kevin M. Hymel’s 2019 WWII History magazine article, The Six Triple Eight stars Washington as Major Charity Adams, the first African-American woman to be an officer in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps and commanding officer of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.
A really good documentary on the 688th was released in 2019 and you can check it out here.
The impressive ensemble includes Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, Kylie Jefferson, Shanice Shantay, Sarah Jeffery, Pepi Sonuga, Moriah Brown, Jeanté Godlock, Susan Sarandon, Dean Norris, Sam Waterston, and Oprah Winfrey.
Dare I say it? This looks like it could be the best, and most significant, movie of Perry’s career. Perry takes a lot of flack for the limited scope of the movies he tackles, and as we speak he’s shooting Madea’s Destination Wedding, but it’s clear of late that he’s been attempting to do more serious stuff. Will it pay off?
The Six Triple Eight hits Netflix on December 20th, preceded by a theatrical run on December 6th.
SYNOPSIS: THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT is inspired by the first and only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve overseas in WWII. Despite facing racism, 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.
