The first trailer for Netflix’sThe Six Triple Eighthas debuted.Starring Kerry Washington, the film is based on the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, who was the only Women’s Army Corps unit of color to serve during World War II. Comprised of 855 women, the 6888th Battalion provided much-needed hope during the war by sorting through 17 million pieces of mail that had been backlogged for three years, ensuring the mail was delivered to soldiers and their loved ones.

Tyler Perry, who wrote and directed the film, shared the trailer on X/Twitter (which was later posted by Netflix), and expressed what it meant to him to tell this important and overlooked true story. Check out the trailer below:

In addition to sharing his gratitude for making this film, Perry emphasized that it is dedicated to the memories of each of the 855 women who served within the 6888th Battalion. He also noted that the film will be available to stream via Netflix on December 20, although it will debut two weeks earlier on December 6 as part of a limited theatrical run.

Why The Six Triple Eight Is An Essential Story To Tell

While many films have been made about World War II, none have ever told the story of the 6888th Battalion before. The majority of World War II films, fromSteven Spielberg’sSaving Private Ryanto Christopher Nolan’sDunkirk, mostly focus on the accomplishments and heroism of white men. These stories are essential, but so isThe Six Triple Eight, which isa rare and much-needed insight into a World War II story about women and a battalion predominantly comprised of women of color.

The fact thatThe Six Triple Eighthas been made is a triumph in its own right, and will shed new light on overlooked aspects of World War II history.

The Six Triple Eightalso breaks the trend of stories that primarily focus on Black trauma. Critically acclaimed and award-winning films like12 Years a Slaveare important, butit is vital to have stories that explore other aspects of Black history and go beyond Black traumaas well.The Six Triple Eightis a perfect example of this by telling a hopeful, inspiring, and real story about Black women leading the way to achieving a seemingly impossible task.

Oprah Winfrey, Susan Sarandon, Sam Waterston, and Dean Norris are also members ofThe Six Triple Eight’s cast.

It is unfortunate that there will only be a limited, two-week theatrical release before theWorld War II movie comes to Netflix, as a longer and more widespread run in theaters could bring more exposure to the little-known and uplifting story. Between the story itself, Washington’s star power, and Perry’s name recognition,it would have plenty of mainstream appeal and would likely do well in theaters. Nevertheless, the fact thatThe Six Triple Eighthas been made is a triumph in its own right, and will shed new light on overlooked aspects of World War II history.

The Six Triple Eight

Cast

The Six Triple Eight is a World War II drama about the US Army’s all-Black, all-women battalion tasked with sorting a massive backlog of 17 million undelivered letters to American soldiers. They must complete the mission within six months, showcasing their resilience and crucial contributions during the war.