The Six Triple Eight

The Six Triple Eight is a war drama film directed and written by Tyler Perry, set during World War II. It tells the inspiring story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-black, all-female battalion in the U.S. Army. The film features a star-studded cast, including Kerry Washington, Oprah Winfrey, Dean Norris, and Sam Waterston.

The movie was released in select theaters on 6 December 2024, and will be available for streaming on Netflix starting 20 December 2024. With a running time of 127 minutes, it explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the struggle for recognition faced by these women during the war.

The plot centers around a mother from West Virginia anxiously waiting for news about her two sons serving overseas. Simultaneously, Lena, a young black woman, grapples with her feelings for Abram, a Jewish friend, as he prepares to deploy. After his tragic death, Lena promises to enlist in the military after graduation.

As Lena joins basic training in Georgia, she meets fellow recruits and their commanding officers, Captain Charity Adams and Lieutenant Noel Campbell. Despite their extensive training, the battalion initially struggles to receive their orders. A turning point occurs when Eleanor Roosevelt learns that soldiers are not receiving their mail, highlighting the logistical issues caused by prioritizing supply deliveries over correspondence.

Upon receiving orders, the battalion must cross the treacherous Atlantic Ocean without naval protection. Upon arrival in Glasgow, they encounter a racist commanding officer, General Halt, who assigns them to a run-down boarding school. Major Adams and Captain Campbell are given six months to convert the facility into a functioning post office and clear a backlog of mail that has accumulated over two years.

As they make progress, Lena has a personal breakthrough when she finds a letter from Abram, which finally brings her closure. The film also highlights the unit's struggles with challenges such as damaged letters and racist treatment, emphasizing the determination and resilience of the women in the battalion.

Despite facing significant obstacles, the 6888 successfully sorts and delivers 17 million pieces of mail in just 90 days, proving their capabilities and paving the way for future recognition. The film culminates in a ceremony led by Michelle Obama, honoring the contributions of the 6888 and acknowledging their struggles.

The movie is notable for its emotional depth and strong performances, particularly by Kerry Washington as Major Adams. The film's score, composed by Aaron Zigman, features a standout song titled "The Journey" by Diane Warren, which has received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award.

While the initial reviews have been mixed, with a 50% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, critics have praised the performances and the importance of the story being told. The Six Triple Eight is expected to resonate with audiences for its powerful narrative and historical significance.