The Six Triple Eight, directed by Tyler Perry, stands as not only a cinematic exploration but also a historical tribute to the groundbreaking 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit to serve overseas during World War II. Released on Netflix on December 20, 2024, the film sheds light on the unit's extraordinary and often underreported contributions, focusing on their mission to sort through 17 million mail pieces, which had become stagnant during the war.
Despite the challenges they faced, including racial and gender discrimination, this remarkable battalion completed their task in just 90 days, showcasing their resilience and determination. While the film generated mixed reviews, achieving ratings of 50 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and 73 percent on Popcornmeter, it rapidly gained popularity among viewers, marking 14.3 million views on Netflix shortly after its premiere.
Indeed, The Six Triple Eight pulled off the feat of becoming the second most streamed film during Christmas week, trailing only behind the thriller Carry-On. It proved to be not just another wartime drama but rather your classic hidden figures story, combining representation and recognition with powerful storytelling.
The narrative centers around Major Charity Adams, portrayed by Kerry Washington, who leads her unit against the odds. The film not only highlights their grueling efforts but also sheds light on the systemic racism and sexism they faced from the military establishment at the time. “Because you are Negroes and women, you do not have the luxury to be as good as the White soldiers,” Adams tells her troops, encapsulating the grim reality and burden of being doubly marginalized.
Critics of The Six Triple Eight have argued about its execution, describing the film as earnest yet lacking the depth it deserves. One critic noted, “It’s a good thing the story is inspiring, since the filmmaking is uninspired.” These sentiments echo throughout various reviews, with some emphasizing the performances and the emotional weight the story carries, especially within its historical framework.
Director Tyler Perry also faced scrutiny over his narrative style and the film's pacing, but he managed to attract significant viewership nonetheless. The film’s sharing of the story of Lena Derriecott King, one of the 855 women who served, left viewers with poignant moments, especially when it culminated with images of King, who passed away at 100, providing testimony to the film’s emotional finale. “Thank you for letting the world know we contributed,” she is quoted saying, and it’s these emotional connections and recollections from real-life figures like King which give the film its strength.
Tyler Perry’s film works not only to entertain but also to educate audiences about the pivotal role played by Black women during World War II. This is particularly highlighted by King’s own reflection upon seeing the film; it left her visibly emotional, filled with gratitude for the representation of her and her comrades. Perry, who was acutely aware of the historical significance of their story, ensured to showcase it accurately, weaving between inspiring moments with necessary tension and realism.
Viewers who tuned to Netflix during the Christmas release not only enjoyed the thematic narrative but also the layering of character development, highlighting the nuances of sacrifice and bravery. These character arcs stemmed from the real-life stories of women who served against all odds, often in environments of hostility and discrimination.
“They delivered all 17 million letters in 90 days,” signifies not only the battalion’s efficiency but also their unity, motivation, and camaraderie, reinforced throughout the film. The camaraderie established within the 6888th gave the women resilience against the everyday challenges they faced, known to their fellow soldiers as “the hidden figures” of the battlefield.
It’s also noteworthy how Perry highlights the role of influences like Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary McLeod Bethune, who advocated for the deployment of Black women to Europe, standing against the tide of military prejudice. They pressured Army leaders to recognize the capabilities of these women, showcasing the intersections of gender, race, and military service.
The Six Triple Eight serves as a fitting reminder of the importance of diversity, representation, and acknowledgment of the contributions made by all service members, often overlooked in historical narratives. Its combination of dramatic storytelling with actual historical events presents viewers with not just entertainment but also historical enrichment, encouraging conversations about the roles of women and minorities within the military.
While the film may not have been critically acclaimed as anticipated, its viewership numbers and emotional impact suggest it has succeeded where many films introduce similar topics: raising awareness of historical injustices and the feats accomplished by those who are often relegated to the shadows of history.
The film, streaming now on Netflix, fulfills Tyler Perry's intent of amplifying voices and stories from the past, reconnecting generations with unsung heroines. There’s no doubt, as it continues to gain interest, its contributions to discussions about race, gender, and valor will resonate beyond the screen.
