Regina King is set to portray Shirley Chisholm in the upcoming Netflix movie 'Shirley,' which offers a glimpse into the life of the first Black woman elected to Congress. The film's trailer showcases Chisholm's remarkable journey to secure a seat in Congress, highlighting the challenges she faced as the daughter of a Barbados-born maid and a Guyanese laborer.
Chisholm's struggles to navigate the predominantly White male Congress are depicted in the sneak peek, shedding light on her groundbreaking moments, including her audacious 1972 presidential campaign.
The movie, produced by King and her sister Reina King, features a talented cast that includes the late Lance Reddick, Lucas Hedges, Terrence Howard, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and Christina Jackson. John Ridley, known for his work on '12 Years a Slave,' serves as the writer and director of the film.
King, who dedicated 15 years to developing the project with her sister, emphasized the importance of bringing Chisholm's story to the screen. She expressed her disappointment at the lack of recognition for Chisholm's pioneering achievements over the years.
The decision to release the film in an election year was intentional, aiming to honor Chisholm's legacy in a meaningful way. King believes that launching the movie during an election season adds to its impact and relevance.
'Shirley' is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on March 22, offering viewers a glimpse into the remarkable life and legacy of Shirley Chisholm, a true trailblazer in American politics.
