It took only one hundred years to tell Harriet Tubman’s story and bring it to the big screen but director Kasi Lemmons did just that. Harriet (Cynthia Eriva) was a political activist, who over many missions, freed hundreds of slaves and brought them to freedom after escaping slavery herself. It’s an inspiring, educational biopic that defied the realm of captivity in the pre-civil war era in 1861.
Harriet aka Moses or Mindy Ross traveled hundreds of miles to set free all slaves she could find with the help of an abolitionist (Leslie Odom Jr) and via the Underground Railroad. Harriet was promised freedom by Gideon Brodess (Joe Alwyn), a young wippersnapper plantation heir but lied. Armed with only powerful prayers and a pistol she makes the stealth decision to flea her captor before she is sold.
She makes her way to freedom but can’t live without her family and friends including her husband. She returns for all only to find him remarried as she was presumed to be dead. She was deeply hurt by his news but where was his remorse? The music, particular her singing, played an important role as the film couldn’t survive without it. Harriet is a strong film even if she never truly looks free. Those of you who enjoy biography and history will enjoy this. It open everywhere November 1st. 3 1/2 stars
