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Tyler Perry, a name synonymous with groundbreaking cinema, is set to add another feather to his cap. This December, Perry will make his debut in the historical war drama genre with his latest project, “The Six Triple Eight,” a film that recounts the extraordinary story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit to serve in World War II. With the movie set to release exclusively on Netflix, anticipation is building. Here’s a deep dive into everything we know about this upcoming historical epic.
What is ‘The Six Triple Eight’?
The Six Triple Eight is more than just a movie; it’s a historical tribute. Written, directed, and produced by Tyler Perry, the film tells the untold story of the 6888th Battalion. This was the first all-Black, all-female battalion sent overseas during World War II, a time when segregation was still prevalent, making their contribution to the war effort even more significant.
Tyler Perry’s Foray into Historical Drama
Known for his work in dramas and comedies, The Six Triple Eight marks Perry’s first venture into historical war drama. His studio, The Tyler Perry Company, will be handling production, making it the studio’s debut in this genre as well. The project was officially announced by Netflix in December 2022, and since then, it has generated significant buzz.
The Cast: A Stellar Lineup
One of the most exciting aspects of The Six Triple Eight is its star-studded cast. Leading the ensemble is the talented Kerry Washington, known for her versatile roles in films like The School for Good and Evil and The Prom. The cast also includes:
- Ebony Obsidian (If Beale Street Could Talk, Sistas)
- Milauna Jackson (A Jazzman’s Blues, How to Get Away With Murder)
- Kylie Jefferson (Tiny Pretty Things)
- Shanice Shantay (The Wiz Live!, Perfect Harmony)
- Sarah Jeffery (Charmed, Descendants)
- Pepi Sonuga (Pam & Tommy, Queens)
- Jay Reeves (Safety, The Tax Collector)
- Jeanté Godlock (Daybreak, The Simone Biles Story: Courage to Soar)
- Moriah Brown (Raising Dion, Power Book II: Ghost)
- Baadja-Lyne Odums (Ruthless, Within)
- Gregg Sulkin (World of Fire, The Throwback)
- Dean Norris (Breaking Bad, Claws)
- Sam Waterston (Law & Order, Grace and Frankie)
- Susan Sarandon (Thelma & Louise, Dead Man Walking)
- Oprah Winfrey (Selma, The Butler)
With such a powerful lineup, the film is set to be both a critical and commercial success.
Plot Overview: A Story of Determination and Courage
At its core, The Six Triple Eight is a story of perseverance, resilience, and courage. Set against the backdrop of World War II in 1943, the film focuses on the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. As the war intensified, the U.S. Army faced an overwhelming backlog of mail that threatened to sever the connection between soldiers on the front lines and their families back home.
The Impossible Mission
The 6888th Battalion, consisting of over 800 Black women, was tasked with the seemingly impossible mission of sorting through years of backlogged mail. The stakes were high, and failure was not an option. Despite being met with skepticism and doubt from military higher-ups, the women of the 6888th were determined to succeed.
From Birmingham to Rouen
The battalion’s journey began in Birmingham, England, where they were met with a staggering 17 million pieces of undelivered mail. What was estimated to be a six-month job was completed in just three months, thanks to their tireless efforts. Their success didn’t stop there; the battalion was later sent to Rouen, France, where they tackled yet another mountain of backlogged mail, completing the task with the same efficiency and dedication.
A Legacy of Service
After their incredible achievements in Europe, the 6888th Battalion returned to the United States in 1946, only to be met with little to no recognition for their service. It wasn’t until decades later, in 2009, that the battalion was formally honored for their contributions during a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The film seeks to shed light on their story, ensuring that their legacy is not forgotten.
Release Date and Where to Watch
Netflix has officially confirmed that The Six Triple Eight will be released globally on Friday, December 20th, 2024. For those eager to experience the film on the big screen, it will also have a limited theatrical release starting December 6th, 2024. With a runtime of 2 hours and 7 minutes, the movie is rated PG-13, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of The Six Triple Eight
Production for The Six Triple Eight began in January 2023 and wrapped up in April of the same year. Filming took place in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England, a location chosen for its historical architecture, which adds authenticity to the movie’s setting.
Recreating History
One of the most intriguing aspects of the film’s production was the recreation of historical elements. For instance, Tyler Perry shared an image from the set featuring a replica of the iconic Douglas C-47 Skytrain, the aircraft that led the formation of planes on D-Day during the Normandy invasion. The attention to detail in recreating such pivotal moments in history is a testament to Perry’s dedication to bringing this story to life.
Why This Film Matters
The Six Triple Eight is more than just a film; it is a significant historical account that highlights the contributions of Black women during World War II. Their story is one of resilience and determination, breaking barriers in a time when the odds were stacked against them.
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An Untold Story Finally Told
For decades, the story of the 6888th Battalion remained largely untold. This film not only brings their story to the forefront but also honors the legacy of these women, who played a crucial role in maintaining morale among soldiers during the war.
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Conclusion: A Must-Watch Film
As the release date for The Six Triple Eight approaches, excitement continues to build. With Tyler Perry at the helm, an incredible cast, and a story that deserves to be told, this film is set to be a major highlight of Netflix’s 2024 lineup. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a compelling story of courage and determination, The Six Triple Eight is a must-watch.
FAQs
1. What is the runtime of The Six Triple Eight?
The Six Triple Eight has a runtime of 2 hours and 7 minutes.
2. When will The Six Triple Eight be available on Netflix?
The film will be released globally on Netflix on December 20th, 2024.
3. Is The Six Triple Eight based on a true story?
Yes, the film is based on the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II.
4. Who is directing The Six Triple Eight?
Tyler Perry is directing the film, marking his first foray into historical war dramas.
5. Will The Six Triple Eight be released in theaters?
Yes, the film will have a limited theatrical release starting December 6th, 2024.
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