Based on the life of American hero Harriet Tubman, Harriet chronicles her life as she escapes slavery to become one of the most prominent conductors of the Underground Railroad ferrying many to safety and freedom.
Cynthia Erivo (Harriet), Leslie Odom Jr. (William Still), Joe Alwyn (Gideon Brodess), Clarke Peters (Ben), Vanessa Calloway (Rit), Omar Dorsey (Bigger), Henry Hall (Walter), Janelle Monae (Marie).
Harriet begins by showing us the life of Harriet, and the circumstances of her slavery. The film quickly establishes power dynamics of the time while rolling out much of the remaining cast, and the story gets rolling. The film moves along well and doesn't miss a beat when Harriet escapes her slave masters shifting quickly to her role with the Underground Railroad. The remainder of the film has a few minor supporting plot points but seemed to lose coherence toward the end and feel rushed.
Acting was solid with Erivo delivering exceptionally well in multiple settings. Alwyn assumed the role of antagonist and managed it nicely. Dorsey fit well in his almost disturbing role while Peters, Calloway, Monae, and the remainder of the supporting cast were solid and enjoyable.
Camera work, sets, and backgrounds all felt period appropriate and solid with strong use of what appeared to be natural scenery. CGI and effects seemed to be minimal. Dialogue was good and the real meat of the film. Things moved at a good pace with nice detail. Sound and soundtrack are very enjoyable.
Overall Harriet feels like a good representation of the life of American icon Harriet Tubman. Action is very good, technical work well done, and the story itself emotionally impacting for a variety of reasons. Those who enjoy historical or biographical dramas should enjoy this one.
With some mild sexuality, foul language, violence, mild gore, and adult situations, this should be fine for teens and above.
Released: 2019
Reviewed: 6.20.20
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Biography, Action, Period Pieces, Social Issues
copyright ©2020 Dave Riedel
Cynthia Erivo (Harriet), Leslie Odom Jr. (William Still), Joe Alwyn (Gideon Brodess), Clarke Peters (Ben), Vanessa Calloway (Rit), Omar Dorsey (Bigger), Henry Hall (Walter), Janelle Monae (Marie).
Harriet begins by showing us the life of Harriet, and the circumstances of her slavery. The film quickly establishes power dynamics of the time while rolling out much of the remaining cast, and the story gets rolling. The film moves along well and doesn't miss a beat when Harriet escapes her slave masters shifting quickly to her role with the Underground Railroad. The remainder of the film has a few minor supporting plot points but seemed to lose coherence toward the end and feel rushed.
Acting was solid with Erivo delivering exceptionally well in multiple settings. Alwyn assumed the role of antagonist and managed it nicely. Dorsey fit well in his almost disturbing role while Peters, Calloway, Monae, and the remainder of the supporting cast were solid and enjoyable.
Camera work, sets, and backgrounds all felt period appropriate and solid with strong use of what appeared to be natural scenery. CGI and effects seemed to be minimal. Dialogue was good and the real meat of the film. Things moved at a good pace with nice detail. Sound and soundtrack are very enjoyable.
Overall Harriet feels like a good representation of the life of American icon Harriet Tubman. Action is very good, technical work well done, and the story itself emotionally impacting for a variety of reasons. Those who enjoy historical or biographical dramas should enjoy this one.
With some mild sexuality, foul language, violence, mild gore, and adult situations, this should be fine for teens and above.
Released: 2019
Reviewed: 6.20.20
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Biography, Action, Period Pieces, Social Issues
copyright ©2020 Dave Riedel
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