Cynthia Erivo’s stunning portrayal in the 2019 historical drama not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned her a double nomination at the Academy Awards.
Her riveting depiction of an iconic real-life heroine solidified her status as a household name, following an illustrious stint on Broadway.
Adding to her accolades, Erivo co-wrote the original song Stand Up with Joshuah Brian Campbell for the biopic, which secured her twin Oscar nominations in 2019.
Netflix subscribers can now stream the film without any additional charge, making it a must-watch this December.
For those who have marvelled at Erivo’s performance in Wicked, prepare to be captivated by her transformative and equally remarkable role as the abolitionist Harriet Tubman in Harriet, reports the Mirror.
The film is directed by Kasi Lemmons, who recently helmed Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody, and chronicles Tubman’s daring escape from slavery and her ascent to become one of the most revered figures in American history.
The cast also includes Leslie Odom Jr, Joe Alwyn, and fellow musician Janelle Monae.
The synopsis highlights: “Her courage, ingenuity and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and changed the course of history.”
Simran Hans of The Guardian praised the film as “long overdue”, noting that it “[focuses] on liberation and solidarity, rather than amplifying pain, trauma and humiliation.”
Hans further remarked, “So often, historical films are stale and mired in misery, but Harriet has a rare buoyancy.”
Peter Bradshaw lavished praise on Erivo’s depiction of the historical figure, stating she is “sublime” and “terrific” as Tubman. He further highlighted: “Erivo embodies Harriet’s courage, resourcefulness, physical toughness, talent (and relish) for disguise and untutored genius for guerrilla warfare.”
While some critics argue that Harriet occasionally becomes a conventional biopic, theres unanimous acclaim about Erivo’s transformative and breakout leading role.
Film critic Mark Kermode remarked: “It has a central performance that carries the drama shoulder-high” asserting “it’s gripping.”
One avid Letterboxd user exclaimed: “Harriet Tubman is stronger and smarter than most of us ever will be and it’s literally sick that this film, Cynthia’s performance (and her voice…wow, her voice) and most importantly, Harriet Tubman herself are so underrated and under-appreciated. When I saw this in theaters, I was in awe.”
Meanwhile, another added their voice to the chorus: “Cynthia Erivo delivers the best performance of her career in a powerful biopic of an inspirational woman who escapes from slavery and makes it her mission to rescue other slaves trapped in this terrible situation.”
For those who have already witnessed Erivo’s spellbinding acts on the silver screen, dont miss the chance to see her stellar performance in this poignant historical film.
Harriet is available to stream on Netflix.