This Netflix Film Is Based On A Real-Life Story But Doesnt Do It Justice

(L-R) Kerry Washington as Major Charity Adams and Milauna Jackson as Lt.Campbell in "The Six Triple Eight."Laura Radford/Perry Well Films 2/NetflixWe had high hopes for “The Six Triple Eight.” Higher hopes than we typically have for Tyler Perry productions.

With a strong trailer, cast and a story backed by the unsung heroes of the 6888th Battalion, we thought it would be different than the filmmaker’s other work, especially since his writing had to stay within the confines of historical facts.That partially happened, as some truly moving moments highlight the resilience and bravery of the only all-Black battalion of the Women’s Army Corps who served overseas during World War II, led by Major Charity Adams (Kerry Washington).“The Six Triple Eight” tells the story of how these women created a process to deliver thousands of pieces of backed-up mail and parcels to soldiers and their families during the war.

The film is at its best when leaning into their story, sisterhood and how they overcame when faced with racism, sexism and adversity.Advertisement Where it falls short, however, is within the same tropes that often plague Perry’s work.Flat and stereotypical depictions of Black women distract from the story.

The film spends too much time seesawing between the love stories Lena Derriecott (Ebony Obsidian) has with her late white lover who was killed at war and a Black soldier she meets while serving.Fleshing out the plot and characters with more depth and nuance would’ve been a more productive use of time.Still, it is important that the 6888th Battalion’s story is being told.

We just hope that it isn’t limited to this one film.We break down our thoughts and reactions to “The Six Triple Eight” here.Let’s Talk About The Cast And Their PerformancesI will never not admire writer-director Tyler Perry for being able to get some of the most talented Black actors in Hollywood in his movies — despite many of the movies being quite bad.Opra...