Did you know that the new movie Harriet, directed by Kasi Lemmons (Eve’s Bayou, Candyman) and starring Cynthia Erivo (Widows, Bad Times at the El Royale) is the first time a biopic has been made of Harriet Tubman? The story explores Harriet’s origins, when she was known as Minty, and her original goal was to free just herself and her family. Tubman eventually freed over 300 slaves by the time she died in 1913.

One of the most incredible things about Erivo’s performance in the film is how she
totally disappears into the role. I talked to her about this in a red carpet interview r at Urban World Film Festival in September. The movie details many historical facts that aren’t regularly taught in schools. For instance, the fact that a blow to the head caused her to have regular blackouts. During these seizures, she said she saw “visions from God” which is where she drew her strength. Many, including producers Debra Martin Chase and Daniela Taplin Lundberg agreed that Harriet Tubman was our real-life superhero.

Kasi LEmmons also shared nuggets from her long an incredible career. (You do realize that she was the sister who starred in Candyman right?) She also talked about what it was like working on set with husband Vondie curtis-Hall and son Henry Hunter Hall, who also stars in the film. Check it out! (And don’t forget to subscribe and comment!