British-Nigerian Actress, Cynthia Erivo, takes on the role of the iconic Harriet Tubman in the forthcoming biopic titled “Harriet”. The Emmy, Grammy and Tony-Winning Actress plays lead in the gripping drama in which she delivers a convincing performance with what we see in the just-released trailer.
“Harriet” is based on the true story of the famous slave-turned-freedom-fighter and key player in the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman.
Directed by Kasi Lemmons, Shadow and Act describe the movie as; “Based on the thrilling and inspirational life of an iconic American freedom fighter, Harriet tells the extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes. Her courage, ingenuity, and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and changed the course of history.”
The trailer for the film begins with Tubman running for her life. “Follow that north star,” she is told. “If there’s no stars, follow the river.” When Tubman comes to the end of the river, with slave owners hot on her heels, she makes a choice that leads to her freedom. “I’m gonna be free or die,” she says before jumping off a bridge. Erivo sells every moment, giving what looks like an Oscar-worthy performance.
Alongside Erivo, the film also stars two other British-Nigerian actors, Deborah Ayorinde (Girls Trip) and Zackary Momoh (Seven Seconds), as well as Leslie Odom Jr. (Murder on the Orient Express), Janelle Monáe (Hidden Figures), Joe Alwyn (The Favourite), amongst others.
The movie is set to hit cinemas in November.