The Six Triple Eight

Short Take: The phrase comes from the film industry, originally, and it means a short bit of recording or “something that only takes a short time,” especially if a longer version may be done later.

Short Take review: A short review of a film with potential discussion points

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5)

Synopsis: The 6888th Battalion, the Women's Army Corps' all-Black battalion, yearned for the opportunity to serve the country during World War II. Despite opposition within the leadership ranks, they were finally allowed to be deployed to assist with an unusual morale issue during the war. Mail meant for the troops and families back in the US had been backlogged in warehouses in Scotland. The battalion of over 800 women was given the daunting task of sorting and delivering more than 17 million pieces of mail quickly. Despite racism and the formidable task of sorting these letters, these amazing women rose to the task of boosting the hopes of American soldiers and their families.

Short Take review: Writer/director Tyler Perry (Mea Culpa) delivers a dramatic account of these history-making women led by Major Charity Adams (Kerry Washington). Her work set the stage for women of colour serving in the American armed forces. The set-up involves melodramatic moments and caricatures of the military and the era, but this does not detract from the significance of these women's achievements. To think that a film could be made of the delivery of mail may make some pause until they understand the human interest story behind this monumental task takes hold. Some personal stories woven into this true-to-life story work to make things more heartwarming. Still, the film's overall message will keep audiences watching to the end to see if these women were allowed to finish their goal.

REEL DIALOGUE: Christianity, racism and discrimination

The Six Triple Eight addresses topics that have been a part of America’s and the world’s social conscience since the beginning of mankind. Racial hatred and discrimination relate to something more profound than mere social injustices. These two issues are a deeply embedded insult to God and offence to the entirety of humanity.

For students of the Bible, it is not difficult to see that racism runs counter to the message that can be read throughout its pages. The hatred depicted in this film and the actions taken by many worldwide are not a representation of Christianity or Jesus’ message. He died on the cross to redeem men and women of every race, colour, and ethnic background. The world's Saviour lives today to show the eternal value of all people, regardless of nationality, race, development, appearance, or ability. His followers must embrace this aspect of the Bible’s message and live accordingly while sharing this truth with the world without prejudice.

Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly. John 7:24

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28

If you want to discuss this film's topics, contact us at Third Space. We would love to chat with you about this and more.