The first trailer for Netflix‘s The Six Triple Eight has debuted. Starring Kerry Washington, the film is based on the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, who was the only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve during World War II. Comprised of 855 women, the 6888th Battalion provided much-needed hope during the war by sorting through 17 million pieces of mail that had been backlogged for three years, ensuring the mail was delivered to soldiers and their loved ones.
Tyler Perry, who wrote and directed the film, shared the trailer on X, and expressed what it meant to him to tell this important and overlooked true story. Check out the trailer and his post below:
In addition to sharing his gratitude for making this film, Perry emphasized that it is dedicated to the memories of each of the 855 women who served within the 6888th Battalion. He also noted that the film will be available to stream via Netflix on December 20, although it will debut two weeks earlier on December 6 as part of a limited theatrical run.
Why The Six Triple Eight Is An Essential Story To Tell
It Improves On Numerous Hollywood Trends
While many films have been made about World War II, none have ever told the story of the 6888th Battalion before. The majority of World War II films, from Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan to Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk, mostly focus on the accomplishments and heroism of white men. These stories are essential, but so is The Six Triple Eight, which is a rare and much-needed insight into a World War II story about women and a battalion predominantly comprised of women of color.
The fact that The Six Triple Eight has been made is a triumph in its own right, and will shed new light on overlooked aspects of World War II history.
The Six Triple Eight also breaks the trend of stories that primarily focus on Black trauma. Critically acclaimed and award-winning films like 12 Years A Slave are important, but it is vital to have stories that explore other aspects of Black history and go beyond Black trauma as well. The Six Triple Eight is a perfect example of this by telling a hopeful, inspiring, and real story about Black women leading the way to achieving a seemingly impossible task.
Oprah Winfrey, Susan Sarandon, Sam Waterston, and Dean Norris are also members of The Six Triple Eight‘s cast.
It is unfortunate that there will only be a limited, two-week theatrical release before the World War II movie comes to Netflix, as a longer and more widespread run in theaters could bring more exposure to the little-known and uplifting story. Between the story itself, Washington’s star power, and Perry’s name recognition, it would have plenty of mainstream appeal and would likely do well in theaters. Nevertheless, the fact that The Six Triple Eight has been made is a triumph in its own right, and will shed new light on overlooked aspects of World War II history.
Source: Tyler Perry/X
