Before Superman, the Flash, and Captain Marvel, there was real-life hero Harriet Tubman. The biopic Harriet, directed by Kasi Lemmons (Eve’s Bayou), plunges into drama right away, showing a young Harriet (then known as Minty), her freeman husband, John, and extended family receiving a resounding “no” after pleading for Harriet’s freedom with her master. Slave owner Edward Brodess swiftly resolves to sell Minty away from his plantation—and her family—despite his son Gideon’s initial affinity for her.
Before the film’s release, Cynthia Ervo, the British actress who stars as Harriet, made comments regarding African American Vernacular English that put a nasty taste in some people’s mouths. But controversy aside, she delivers an outstanding performance. The script relies more heavily on fast-paced action than on piecing together every historical detail in Tubman’s life. And that’s fine—it didn’t need to. Enough facts set the foundation; solid storytelling and engrossing performances carry the film to its end.
Directed by Kasi Lemmons. PG-13, 125 min. Now playing in wide release.
