The Six Triple Eight is a 2024 American war drama film directed and written by Tyler Perry, based on the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—the only all-Black, all-female unit of the U.S. Women’s Army Corps to serve overseas during World War II. The film stars Kerry Washington as Major Charity Adams, the battalion’s commanding officer, and features an ensemble cast including Oprah Winfrey, Ebony Obsidian, Susan Sarandon, and Sam Waterston.
Set against the backdrop of WWII, the film chronicles the battalion’s mission to sort and deliver a massive backlog of 17 million pieces of undelivered mail to American soldiers in Europe. Despite being given six months to complete the task, the unit accomplished it in just 90 days. The women faced significant challenges, including segregation, poor working conditions, and rampant racism and sexism. Nevertheless, they persevered, forming a tight-knit community and demonstrating exceptional dedication and resilience.
Filming took place in Atlanta, Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the United Kingdom, with meticulous attention to historical accuracy. The film was produced with a budget of $70 million, making it Perry’s largest and most expensive production to date.
Upon release, The Six Triple Eight received a mixed critical response. It holds a 56% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising Kerry Washington’s performance but criticizing the film’s presentation and pacing. The film was nominated for Best Original Song at the 97th Academy Awards for “The Journey,” written by Diane Warren and performed by H.E.R.
The Six Triple Eight is available for streaming on Netflix.
This film serves as a poignant tribute to the 6888th Battalion’s invaluable contributions during WWII, shedding light on a significant yet often overlooked chapter in American history.(decider.com)
