What’s It About
The intimate portrayal of trailblazing political icon Shirley Chisholm, the first Black Congresswoman and the first Black woman to run for President of the U.S., and the cost of accomplishment for Shirley herself. This film will tell the story of Chisholm’s boundary-breaking and historic presidential campaign, based on exclusive and extensive conversations with family, friends and those who knew her best.
MOVIESinMO REVIEW
Regina King is perfect as the titular character, Shirley. The film focuses intensely on Chisholm’s 1972 presidential campaign. A direction that hurts the film’s purpose by overshadowing her remarkable life story. Despite her desire otherwise, Chisholm’s assignment to the Agriculture Committee demonstrates her unwillingness to compromise, a trait that defines her character but also highlights her inflexibility. This is more noticeable when the movie jumps straight into Chisholm’s bid for the presidency, showcasing her fearless nature and unyielding demeanor in the face of adversity. She stands out among her white male counterparts, exuding pride and strength. But, while the film delves into her presidential campaign, it neglects to explore the complexities of 1972, diminishing the significance of her nomination pursuit. Despite the challenges, Chisholm’s campaign strategy, highlighted by her husband Conrad and advisors, demonstrates her determination and savvy political instincts. King’s portrayal captures Chisholm’s essence, revealing her as a person beyond just a candidate. Her strained relationship with her sister and the challenges faced by her husband add depth to her character, showing the toll her career took on her personal life. Despite the admiration for Chisholm, the film often feels like a history lesson, lacking in emotional depth and focusing more on events than on character development. The film’s treatment of Chisholm as a symbol rather than a person detracts from its impact, leaving the audience emotionally detached. While King’s performance is commendable, the script fails to fully realize Chisholm as a complex individual, relying instead on her achievements to carry the narrative. Ultimately, Shirley falls short in portraying its titular character, leaving the audience a void in emotional connection.
OUR RATING – A POLITICAL 4