Harriet (2019)

About Harriet

"Harriet" is a 2019 biographical film directed by Kasi Lemmons. The film is a moving tribute to the life of American abolitionist Harriet Tubman. Born into slavery, Tubman escaped to freedom, then made over a dozen missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people, using the network of activists and safe houses known as the Underground Railroad. Her courage, wit, and determination offer an inspiring blueprint for anyone who dreams of changing the world.

Making / Production

The movie was produced by Debra Martin Chase, Daniela Taplin Lundberg, and Gregory Allen Howard with screenplay by Gregory Allen Howard and Kasi Lemmons. The film successfully crosses the gap between Tubman's day and our contemporary era to tell the timeless tale of bravery and resistance against inhumanity.

Actors

• Cynthia Erivo as Harriet Tubman: The inspiring lead actress played Tubman with fierce determination. Her depiction breathed life to the character, showing her courage, intelligence and undying spirit.
• Leslie Odom Jr. as William Still: Odom played the role of the abolitionist and writer, offering a realistic portrayal of the man who was one of Tubman's key allies.
• Janelle Monáe as Marie Buchanon: A free-born black woman, Marie offers Harriet assistance and guidance on her arrival in Philadelphia. Monáe played the role with warmth and dignity.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Before Cynthia Erivo was cast, several actresses including Viola Davis were considered for the role of Harriet.
• The movie was filmed in Virginia, which is geographically and historically appropriate considering Tubman's life story.
• The director, Kasi Lemmons, makes a cameo appearance in the film as a church goer.

Awards

"Harriet" received several award nominations, among which was an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for Cynthia Erivo's formidable performance. The film's title song, "Stand Up", was also nominated for an Oscar. Furthermore, Erivo won the NAACP Image Award for outstanding actress in a motion picture for her role as Harriet Tubman.

Quotes

• "I'm gonna be free or die." - Harriet
• "I don't know if you know how extraordinary this is, but you have made it 100 miles to freedom all by yourself." - William Still
• "Every great dream begins with a dreamer." - Harriet

Music and Soundtrack

• The music for "Harriet" was composed by Terence Blanchard. His score beautifully augmented the emotional depth and historical context of the film.
• The film's title song, "Stand Up", was performed by Cynthia Erivo and became an emotional anthem for the movie.
• Other songs in the soundtrack evoke the era and underscore the film's themes of freedom and resistance.