Netflix’s Big New War Movie Is Doing Something The Genre Almost Always Overlooks

By Shoaib Yusuf
3 months Ago

Tyler Perry’s latest venture with Netflix, “Six Triple Eight,” breaks new ground in the war movie genre by shedding light on the overlooked story of an all-Black, all-women battalion during World War II. This historical drama, directed and written by Perry, stands out for its portrayal of the crucial role played by the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, addressing a chapter in history often neglected by other war films. Starring Kerry Washington and Oprah Winfrey, “Six Triple Eight” promises to bring visibility to an essential but lesser-known aspect of World War II.

Exploring the Unseen Story in “Six Triple Eight”:

Tyler Perry, renowned for his work in comedy, drama, and thrillers, takes on a new genre with “Six Triple Eight,” a historical war drama set during World War II. Unlike many war movies that focus on battlefield narratives and predominantly white male characters, Perry’s film shifts the spotlight to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black and all-women unit in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). This fresh perspective brings attention to a vital yet overlooked chapter in the history of women’s contributions to World War II.

Key Points About “Six Triple Eight”:

Story of the 6888th Battalion:

“Six Triple Eight” narrates the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, consisting of 855 women, handling a massive backlog of mail during World War II. The film emphasizes the unit’s role in boosting soldiers’ morale by ensuring timely mail delivery.

Leadership of Major Charity Adams:

Major Charity Adams, portrayed by Kerry Washington, leads the battalion. The film highlights Major Adams’ leadership and the unit’s commitment to the motto “No mail, low morale.” Under her guidance, the 6888th successfully processed millions of items in just three months.

Recognition with Congressional Gold Medal:

Although the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion went largely unacknowledged for years, “Six Triple Eight” aims to bring recognition to their contributions. In 2022, the real-life battalion, led by Major Charity Adams, was finally awarded a Congressional Gold Medal.

Visibility to Overlooked History:

Tyler Perry’s film serves as a platform to bring visibility to the often-overlooked history of Black women’s contributions during World War II. By exploring the achievements of the 6888th, “Six Triple Eight” challenges the traditional narrative of war movies and emphasizes the diversity of wartime experiences.

Stellar Cast with Kerry Washington and Oprah Winfrey:

The film boasts a stellar cast, with Kerry Washington taking on the role of Major Charity Adams. The inclusion of Oprah Winfrey adds further star power to the project, drawing attention to the significance of the story being told.

Frequently Asked Questions about “Six Triple Eight”:

What is “Six Triple Eight” about?

Six Triple Eight” tells the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black, all-women unit, during World War II, focusing on their crucial role in handling a massive backlog of mail.

Who is Major Charity Adams?

Major Charity Adams, portrayed by Kerry Washington, is the leader of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in “Six Triple Eight.”

Why is the 6888th Battalion significant?

The 6888th Battalion is significant for being an all-Black, all-women unit that played a crucial role in processing and delivering a massive backlog of mail during World War II.

What is the Congressional Gold Medal awarded to the 6888th Battalion?

The Congressional Gold Medal is a recognition awarded to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in 2022, acknowledging their outstanding contributions during World War II.

Why is “Six Triple Eight” considered groundbreaking?

Six Triple Eight” is considered groundbreaking for its focus on the often-overlooked story of an all-Black, all-women battalion, challenging the traditional narrative of war movies.