Lena Derriecott’s Reaction to Netflix’s WW2 Film ‘The Six Triple Eight’ Revealed by Tyler Perry

Director Tyler Perry Reflects on Lena Derriecott King’s Emotional Response to The Six Triple Eight

Tyler Perry, the director of The Six Triple Eight, recently shared insights into how the remarkable Lena Derriecott King reacted to the film. King was a distinguished member of the 6888th Battalion, an all-Black, all-female military unit that played a crucial role in World War II. This battalion successfully managed to process a staggering 17 million pieces of mail that had accumulated over several years, accomplishing this monumental task in fewer than 90 days. At the film’s conclusion, viewers can see King through historical footage recorded when she was 99—she sadly passed away in January 2024, just shy of her 101st birthday.

In an interview with Today, Perry recounted that he provided King with a rough cut of the movie before her passing, which she received with great enthusiasm. He was particularly touched by her vivid memories of her wartime experiences. Perry noted how moving it was for her to witness her story, along with the narratives of her fellow servicewomen, represented on screen. He also had the opportunity to screen the film for the children of Major Charity Adams (portrayed by Kerry Washington) at the Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, ahead of the Netflix release. Below are Perry’s reflections:

99 and sharp as a tack. She told me these incredible stories. Her recall and memory were so great that when I ran it by a historian, he was blown away that she could recall that much.

She was saluting the screen. She was laughing. But at the end of it, it was so powerful. She was in tears. She just said, “Thank you so much for letting the world know that we contributed.”

When I found out her health was failing, I got a rushed cut to her. She cried as she watched it. Every image took her back. She said how inspired [and] thankful she was that I was able to let the world know that Black women contributed.

It was so exciting to share it with [Adams’ children]. I’m just happy that they were proud.

The Impact of The Six Triple Eight

Honoring the Legacy of the Battalion

The profound story depicted in The Six Triple Eight is further amplified by the heartfelt reactions it inspired from those connected to the brave women of the 6888th Battalion. Recognizing these trailblazers not only highlights their significant contributions during World War II but also sheds light on the remarkable individuals who made those achievements possible. The heartfelt responses from King and Adams’ children truly reflect the film’s success in conveying these important narratives.

Films that draw from real-life events spark curiosity, especially when audiences have the chance to connect with the actual people behind the stories. The cast, including Ebony Obsidian as Lena, along with Kerry Washington and the rest of the ensemble, should take pride in their impactful portrayals. Perry is to be commended for bringing this essential narrative to life and for ensuring that King experienced it prior to her passing.

Exploring Tyler Perry’s Insights

Lena Derriecott King’s Legacy Endures

Perry’s comments stand out, particularly illustrating his admiration for King’s remarkable recollection of her WWII experiences. Even in the twilight of her life, King consistently astonished those who might have underestimated her brilliance. Her emotional journey while viewing The Six Triple Eight adds substantial depth to the film, affirming the enduring impact of her story. The knowledge that her legacy will continue to resonate with future audiences is a heartening outcome.

Source: Today

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