Tyler Perry's film about the only African American women's army corp to serve over seas in WWII is rather standard and predictable but the story of these real life women is compelling enough to overcome that so when we get to the end of this story, we are moved and inspired. I'll give Perry credit that despite framing his story in a rather paint by numbers sort of way, he does film it beautifully, often featuring stunning scenes. The Six Triple Eight ends up being rather enjoyable while giving us a peak into one of those historical moments that is often pushed to the side.
Perry's film lacks in nuance and subtlety. Washington's performance brings strength but not a lot of dimension to the lead character. None of the characters get to be very complicated. They are all either completely good or completely bad and no one has a character arc. Instead we just follow through the steps of their story as they prove their worth and decades later get some of the recognition they deserve.
And this is a very inspiring story and one that points to patterns of history and those who manage to overcome them. His transition at the end to take us into the real world as H.E.R.'s The Journey is playing is a powerful and satisfying conclusion that might juts give a bit of hope for us for the future. Despite being rather formulaic, The Six Triple Eight is not boring nor does it talk down to its audience and in the end I was happy I watched it.
The Six Triple Eight
Starring: Kerry Washington, Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, Kylie Jefferson, Shanice Shantay, Sarah Jeffrey, Dean Norris, Sam Waterston, Oprah Winfrey, Susan Sarandon,
Writer/Director: Tyler Perry
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