Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
Released 12-06-2024
Watched 02-08-2025
Reviewed 02-13-2025
Watched on Netflix
"They did not send us because they thought we could do it. We are here because they are sure we cannot."
In a time when unsung heroes of history are finally getting the recognition they deserve, The Six Triple Eight (2024) delivers a powerful and moving tribute to the only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed overseas during World War II. Directed by Tyler Perry, the film chronicles the extraordinary journey of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion as they defied expectations, overcame racial and gender barriers, and completed a seemingly impossible mission in record time.
The story follows the battalion as they arrive in war-torn Europe, tasked with sorting through a massive backlog of undelivered mail—some of it years old—intended for U.S. troops. At a time when morale was at an all-time low, these women understood that letters from home could mean the difference between hope and despair for soldiers on the front lines. The Army gave them six months to accomplish the task, but in an incredible display of determination, efficiency, and teamwork, they completed it in just three.
This film does an exceptional job of capturing both the large-scale impact of their mission and the deeply personal struggles these women faced. The racism and sexism they endured, even from within their own military, serve as a stark reminder of the immense challenges faced by women of color in the 1940s. Yet, the film is not just about hardship—it is a testament to resilience, intelligence, and the unbreakable spirit of those who refuse to be held back by societal limitations.
With a strong ensemble cast, the performances feel authentic and deeply emotional. Kerry Washington, Oprah Winfrey, and Susan Kelechi Watson bring depth and gravitas to their roles, making each character feel like a real person with hopes, dreams, and struggles. The film’s pacing is tight, keeping viewers engaged as the battalion races against time, while the cinematography effectively transports audiences to 1940s wartime Europe.
Releasing during Black History Month, The Six Triple Eight is more than just a historical drama—it’s an essential piece of storytelling that should be required viewing for audiences of all ages. This is a story that should be told not just in February, but year-round, ensuring that the contributions of these remarkable women are never forgotten.
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