The critically acclaimed biographical film, Harriet, which chronicles the extraordinary life of Harriet Tubman, clocks in at 2 hours and 5 minutes (125 minutes). This runtime effectively balances the vast scope of Tubman’s heroic journey from slavery to becoming a leading abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad with the need for pacing and compelling storytelling.
The Journey and Its Length: Why 125 Minutes Matters
Understanding the length of a film like Harriet is crucial for appreciating the narrative choices made by the filmmakers. Biographical films often grapple with the challenge of condensing a complex life into a manageable timeframe. The 125-minute runtime allows the film to explore key moments in Tubman’s life, including her escape from slavery, her transformation into “Moses”, the code name she adopted while guiding others to freedom, and her unwavering commitment to the cause of abolition.
Considerations during production likely included:
- Historical accuracy: The film strives to remain as historically accurate as possible, necessitating the inclusion of numerous real-life events and figures.
- Character development: Exploring the internal struggles and emotional growth of Harriet Tubman required sufficient screentime.
- Pacing: Maintaining audience engagement throughout a story spanning multiple years and geographical locations is paramount.
The chosen runtime represents a carefully considered balance, allowing the film to be both informative and emotionally resonant without feeling rushed or overly lengthy.
Diving Deeper: Frequently Asked Questions About Harriet
To further enhance your understanding of the film Harriet, and the context surrounding its creation and reception, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: What is Harriet rated, and why?
Harriet is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). This rating indicates that the film may contain material that is unsuitable for children under 13. The PG-13 rating is primarily due to violence, thematic content involving slavery, and some language. While the film avoids overly graphic depictions, it does realistically portray the brutality of slavery and the dangers faced by Harriet Tubman and those she helped to escape.
FAQ 2: Who stars in Harriet, and what are their key roles?
The film boasts a talented cast, led by Cynthia Erivo as Harriet Tubman. Other notable cast members and their roles include:
- Leslie Odom Jr. as William Still: A prominent abolitionist and clerk for the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society.
- Janelle Monáe as Marie Buchanon: A free black woman living in Philadelphia who assists Harriet.
- Joe Alwyn as Gideon Brodess: The son of Harriet’s former slave owner.
- Clarke Peters as Rit: Harriet’s father.
- Vondie Curtis-Hall as Reverend Green: A supportive minister.
FAQ 3: Where can I watch Harriet?
Harriet is available on various platforms, including:
- Streaming services: Availability varies by region and streaming service. Common options include Hulu, Amazon Prime Video (rental or purchase), YouTube Movies (rental or purchase), and Apple TV (rental or purchase).
- DVD and Blu-ray: Physical copies of the film can be purchased online or at retailers.
- Rental services: Digital rental services allow you to stream the film for a limited time.
Checking your local streaming service listings is the best way to determine current availability.
FAQ 4: Is Harriet based on a true story?
Yes, Harriet is based on the true story of Harriet Tubman, a remarkable woman who escaped slavery and became a leading figure in the abolitionist movement. While the film takes some creative liberties for narrative purposes, it remains grounded in historical fact and accurately portrays the major events of Tubman’s life.
FAQ 5: What is the historical accuracy of Harriet?
While Harriet strives for historical accuracy, it is important to remember that it is a dramatization, not a documentary. Some characters and events may be fictionalized or compressed for narrative coherence. However, the film is generally considered to be faithful to the core events of Harriet Tubman’s life and her contributions to the Underground Railroad. Historians have debated some aspects of the film’s depiction of certain individuals, but the overall portrayal of Tubman’s bravery and commitment to freedom is widely accepted.
FAQ 6: What awards and nominations did Harriet receive?
Cynthia Erivo’s performance as Harriet Tubman garnered significant acclaim, leading to numerous awards and nominations. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama. The film also received a nomination for Best Original Song (“Stand Up”) at the Academy Awards.
FAQ 7: Who directed Harriet, and what else have they directed?
Harriet was directed by Kasi Lemmons. Lemmons is a talented filmmaker known for her work exploring themes of race, identity, and social justice. Her other notable directorial credits include Eve’s Bayou, The Caveman’s Valentine, Talk to Me, and Black Nativity.
FAQ 8: What is the main message of the movie Harriet?
The main message of Harriet is one of courage, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom. It highlights the extraordinary bravery of Harriet Tubman, her deep faith, and her commitment to helping others escape the horrors of slavery. The film also underscores the importance of resistance and the power of one person to make a significant difference in the fight for social justice.
FAQ 9: How did Harriet Tubman get the nickname “Moses”?
Harriet Tubman earned the nickname “Moses” because, like the biblical figure Moses who led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, she led enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad. This moniker reflected her role as a liberator and her unwavering determination to guide others to a better life.
FAQ 10: What was the Underground Railroad?
The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the United States during the early to mid-19th century. It was used by enslaved African Americans to escape to free states and Canada with the aid of abolitionists and allies who were sympathetic to their cause. It was neither underground nor a railroad; those were code words used to maintain secrecy.
FAQ 11: How many people did Harriet Tubman help escape slavery?
It is estimated that Harriet Tubman made 19 trips back to the South and helped approximately 70 enslaved people escape to freedom via the Underground Railroad. She also provided detailed instructions to many more who found their way north. Her unwavering dedication and strategic planning made her an incredibly effective conductor on the Underground Railroad.
FAQ 12: What impact did Harriet Tubman have on the Civil War?
Harriet Tubman played a significant role in the Civil War. She served as a scout, spy, and nurse for the Union Army. She led the Combahee River Raid in South Carolina, which freed over 700 enslaved people. Her knowledge of the terrain and her ability to gain the trust of local populations proved invaluable to the Union cause. Her contributions solidified her legacy as a national hero and a champion of freedom and equality.
By understanding the film’s runtime and delving into these frequently asked questions, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, a true American hero.