Netflix’s recent movie Shirley is a much-anticipated biopic of Former United States Representative, Shirley Chisholm. Shirley paved the way for several black men and women, as she was the first black woman to be elected to the United States Congress. This biopic which revolves around the life of Chisholm and focuses on her political career and run for presidency, reflects society even today, decades after the events of said biopic.
This biopic isn’t just about Shirley or her run for Presidency, which seemed like an impossible milestone to millions of Americans, but about perseverance, about fighting for what one believes in and not giving up.
However, did Netflix’s Shirley live up to all the expectations that were set on it? Keep reading our review to find out more.
Regina King Delivers an Outstanding Performance
The role of Shirley Chisholm, whose life and political career were at the center of Netflix’s latest biopic, Shirley, was played by none other than Regina King. King is one of the most famous actresses in Hollywood and has exuded black excellence for as long as she has been around.
The movie has now officially been added to King’s roster for yet another brilliant role played by her, which made the movie into the iconic piece that it was.
Whilst King’s performance surely stood out in Shirley, amid a cast filled with brilliant actors and actresses, the essence of this biopic remained the story of Shirley Chisholm, and her fight to climb the political ladder, to attempt something nearly unthinkable for a black woman back in the day.
From political campaigns to winning hearts, to losing elections, and much more all fit into the movie, which at times felt like a little drag, but the second you remember what it’s all about, and as soon as King appears on the screen once again, you fall in love with Shirley all over again.
This latest biopic also sheds some light on Shirley Chisholm’s personal life, and how it was impacted by her political career, which is something seen ever so often in politics. Several areas of her life were tapped into during this biopic, in addition to several parts of her personality and attitude that set a tone for women watching this on their screens.
Shirley wasn’t just a movie about politics but about women setting their minds to something and truly going through it. With the somber setting and music at times, in contrast to the upbeat political campaigns and speeches, you will feel constantly immersed in the movie.
2024 also serves as the election year in the United States of America, which makes the release of Shirley early in the year almost fitting and appropriate, giving the viewers a glimpse of what they can expect from the coming times, and just who they would want to vote for. Shirley Chisholm was a woman for the people, and that’s the kind of President everyone is looking for.
Conclusion
This biopic on Netflix is a milestone during the election year, but apart from that, it is simply a soothing yet empowering watch, and for that reason, we would highly recommend streaming it or at least adding it to your watchlist right away!