The Six Triple Eight, a riveting project from Netflix, chronicles the remarkable journey of the only all-Black female battalion in the U.S. during World War II. These brave women took on the monumental task of sorting through a massive backlog of wartime correspondence, enabling soldiers to stay connected with their families back home. Initially perceived as menial work, their assignment evolves into a powerful narrative of resilience and inspiration. Directed and written by Tyler Perry, this film marks his third endeavor of 2024, delving deeper into history far beyond his earlier comedic roots.
Starring Kerry Washington—who also serves as a producer—the movie features her in the role of Major Charity Adams, the commanding officer of the 688th Battalion. Major Adams’s outlook evolves significantly when she meets new recruit Lena Derriecott King, played by Ebony Obsidian. Lena, having enlisted following the loss of her fiancé in combat, brings a human touch to the battalion’s spirit. Together, these courageous women broke records, sorting 17 million pieces of mail ahead of schedule, overcoming the expectations and skepticism of their peers.
Kerry Washington Explores Her Fortuitous Connection to The Six Triple Eight
“Wouldn’t it be cool to do a movie about these women?”
ScreenRant: Your portrayal in this film is extraordinary. It reveals a part of you we haven’t seen before, and I’m thrilled this important story is being told. Many people, myself included, were unaware of the Six Triple Eight until now.
Kerry Washington: Real heroes. Real, real heroes.
ScreenRant: How did you first become aware of the Six Triple Eight’s remarkable story, and what was your reaction when you learned about their achievements?
Kerry Washington: A fascinating incident occurred. I received an email from Tyler Perry, inviting me to view a sizzle reel for a project he wanted us to collaborate on. I planned to watch it after a hectic weekend filled with photoshoots.
During that weekend, I participated in a photoshoot for an Instagram series called Black Herstory, where I dressed as Lena Derriecott King. This experience was thrilling! I had no prior knowledge of these women; my social media director introduced me to their story. I was completely floored and thought, “We should absolutely turn this into a film.” Although it felt like just a whimsical notion, it was a serious desire.
Then, a few days later, I watched the sizzle reel, which revealed it was indeed their story. It was astonishing. When I spoke with Tyler, he told me he wanted me to embody Captain Charity Adams, and I felt an overwhelming sense of commitment. I thought, “Let’s make this happen, even if it’s about mail sorting—I’m all in!”
ScreenRant: It’s moving that a film centered on mail can evoke such deep emotions.
Kerry Washington: Absolutely. There were so many serendipitous moments on set. I’d even refer to it as divine intervention.
Insights on Leadership from Major Charity Adams of The Six Triple Eight
“She expected the best and the most of these women, but she also did it with a very open heart.”
ScreenRant: As Major Charity Adams, what did you glean from her leadership approach, particularly in maintaining team morale?
Kerry Washington: Interestingly, as I stepped onto the set, I felt pulled to embody her spirit. As an executive producer, I felt obligated to foster a collaborative environment among the cast so we could trust and support one another creatively.
Her method of leadership genuinely inspires me; she skillfully balanced authority with compassion. In her memoir, she touches on this aspect. She expected greatness from her women while leading with a nurturing heart—a maternal instinct she exhibited despite not yet being a mother. I admire her philosophy, infusing it into my own life, as she represents one of our greatest unsung heroes.
ScreenRant: You expressed feeling a connection with the spirits of the Six Triple Eight during production. Can you share a particularly profound moment that underscored this connection?
Kerry Washington: Yes, there was a remarkable moment when Tyler Perry and I were rehearsing one of her monologues in my dressing room. We were refining the dialogue when we received an unexpected knock on the door. A transportation staff member walked in with an old trunk marked “Charity Adams.”
Inside were wardrobe pieces and even remnants from her victory garden she had cultivated in Europe, which I had just read about in her memoir. It was surreal, as if her spirit was woven into that collection of belongings.
Kerry Washington Delves Into Her Experience with Knives Out 3
“We are so excited to share this film with the world.”
ScreenRant: What has your experience been like collaborating with the talented Rian Johnson on the eagerly awaited Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery?
Kerry Washington: It’s exhilarating! I just reconnected with Rian at my Walk of Fame star celebration, and it was wonderful to see him again. We recently wrapped filming this Summer, and I enjoyed discussing the post-production work with him. The joy of creating that film was unparalleled.
While I can’t share details about the plot, I can say that Daniel Craig is part of our ensemble, and trust me, it’s a fantastic film. We truly bonded as a cast and are eager to unleash this film upon the audience.
Learn More About The Six Triple Eight (2024)
The Six Triple Eight tells the inspiring story of the first and only Women’s Army Corps unit of color deployed overseas during WWII. Despite grappling with rampant racism, sexism, and grueling working conditions, these women remained dedicated to their mission with grace and fortitude. United in purpose and driven by hope, they shattered societal barriers while serving their country with distinction.
Stay tuned for more exclusive interviews related to The Six Triple Eight:
- Tyler Perry
- Ebony Obsidian
The Six Triple Eight is set to premiere for streaming on December 20, exclusively on Netflix.
Source: Screen Rant Plus
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