The Netflix movie “Shirley,” directed by John Ridley, follows the groundbreaking 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black congresswoman to run for president. Regina King portrays Chisholm, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of a woman who made history not only in Congress but also in her quest for the White House. King’s powerful depiction draws from her extensive career, where she has delivered standout performances in films like “If Beale Street Could Talk” and the HBO series “Watchmen.”
Chisholm, originally from Brooklyn, left an indelible mark on American politics, serving seven terms in Congress from 1969 to 1983. Her boldness in seeking the presidency inspired generations, and her legacy continues to influence political discourse today. Regina King’s role as Chisholm is a fitting tribute to both women’s legacies, as King herself has ventured into directing with her acclaimed film “One Night in Miami…” which explores the intersection of civil rights and popular culture.
The Cast and Their Real-Life Counterparts
Lucas Hedges plays Robert Gottlieb, a key figure in Chisholm’s presidential campaign who helped coordinate youth outreach. Known for his roles in films such as “Manchester by the Sea” and “Lady Bird,” Hedges brings a nuanced depth to the character, portraying the energy and dedication required during such a monumental campaign.
Michael Cherrie takes on the role of Conrad Chisholm, Shirley’s first husband, who worked as a private investigator. Cherrie, a Trinidadian actor with international theater experience, captures the complexities of their relationship, highlighting both the personal and political challenges faced by Chisholm.
Another key figure, Ron Dellums, played by Dorian Missick, was a co-founder of the Congressional Black Caucus and later the mayor of Oakland. His close working relationship with Chisholm in advocating for Black Americans in Congress plays a significant role in the film, underscoring his influence on her political journey.
Amirah Vann portrays Diahann Carroll, a trailblazing actress and singer, whose presence in the entertainment industry broke racial barriers. Vann’s performance mirrors Carroll’s path as one of the first Black women to lead a primetime TV series with her role in “Julia,” a portrayal that challenged stereotypes and opened doors for future Black actors.
W. Earl Brown brings George Wallace, the segregationist Alabama governor, to the screen, illustrating the tension between Chisholm’s progressive campaign and Wallace’s defense of segregation. Brown’s portrayal adds complexity to the political landscape of the time, revealing the sharp divisions in American society.
Civil Rights Leaders and Advisors
André Holland’s portrayal of Walter Fauntroy, a civil rights activist and Congressional Black Caucus co-founder, adds depth to the film’s focus on the broader movement that supported Chisholm. Fauntroy’s activism, alongside Chisholm, played a crucial role in advocating for racial equality and justice during a tumultuous era in American politics.
Terrence Howard steps into the role of Arthur Hardwick, Shirley’s second husband, who was instrumental in fundraising and advising during her campaign. Howard’s performance delves into the personal sacrifices and support systems that empowered Chisholm’s groundbreaking run for office, showing how Hardwick helped shape her historic campaign.
By connecting these characters to their real-life inspirations, “Shirley” not only brings history to life but also sheds light on the personal and political alliances that propelled Shirley Chisholm into the national spotlight.