Based on the life of abolitionist Harriet Tubman, “Harriet” showcases the heroism of the freedom fighter as she helped save slaves via the Underground Railway.
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The film, which is directed by Kasi Lemmons (“Eve’s Bayou” and “Talk To Me”) and co-written with Gregory Allen Howard (“Remember the Titans”), showcases the life of Tubman as she not only escaped slavery, but also help end it.
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However, the film has been controversial, and one of the reasons being is the actress who will portray Harriet, British actress Cynthia Erivo (“Bad Times At The El Royale”). Her casting was controversial due to her being non-American and a non-descendant of slavery.
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But Erivo explained in an Instagram post shortly after her announcement as the freedom fighter that she worked hard for her right to the role. “Nothing has been given to me without me first putting the work in, people speak of foreign privilege, and truthfully life would be unbelievably easy if that were applied to me, but that is not my portion. I fought for the role of Celie, and spilled blood sweat and tears playing her; the same applies for every role I’ve earned; this will be no different.”
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She then went on to say how she wants to do Harriet, and the people who are offended, proud. “I hope that I do everyone, even those who are in doubt or are upset, proud. I hope I quell your fears, because I understand that is what it is. I cannot tell how protective I am of this woman and her story.”
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The film is being distributed by Focus Features and will also feature singer Janelle Monáe (“Hidden Figures”), Leslie Odom Jr. (“Murder on the Orient Express”) and Joe Alwyn (“The Favourite”).
Here is the synopsis:
Based on the story of the iconic freedom fighter Harriet Tubman, her escape from slavery and subsequent missions to free dozens of slaves through the Underground Railroad in the face of growing pre-Civil War adversity.
The film will hit theaters on November 1st, watch the new trailer below.
