Respond to these rapid questions in our Harriet quiz and we will tell you which Harriet character you are. Play it now.
drawn to Tubman’s determination and unique connection to God, who eventually becomes her protector. The montage sequences of various escape scenes, mixed with the occasional scares when Harriet is stopped and searched by white officials, help to elevate the overall appeal of a package that is admittedly more standard issue than innovative in its presentation. However, given that this is the first major film to tackle such a significant figure in American civil rights history, the simplicity of the film is not necessarily a negative characteristic. No less surprising is the fact that Lemmons has chosen to keep the bloody brutality to a minimum on screen, in favor of an inspirational and womanly character study. However, despite the fact that the heartbreaking truths in “Harriet” are somewhat glossed over in that sense (especially when compared to Steve McQueen’s unforgiving “12 Years a Slave”), the film’s demographic reach may be broader, speaking to even younger audiences as a result of this visually palliating treatment.
Apart from these strategic storytelling decisions, Lemmons’ most valuable asset in this film is unquestionably the tough-as-nails performance that serves as the film’s focal point. Her shining spirit and courage are beautifully captured by Erivo, who depicts Tubman’s toughened face, which she wears with pride, as well as her compassion for those around her. That the occasionally wooden dialogue of “Harriet” flows with grace and that the sporadic visual misfortunes do not linger in the mind for an extended period of time is a testament to her commitment to introspection. Although this may not be the best film to pay tribute to an American hero who has been neglected on our screens for far too long, Erivo’s performance as Tubman may very well become the one that is associated with the character. This is a good place to begin, by any standard of evaluation.
For more personality quizzes check this: Color Out Of Space Quiz.
