Shirley Chisholm is one of the more interesting female historical figures, yet many have never even heard her name. That’s why it was a pleasure to see writer-director John Ridley’s “Shirley,” an entertaining look at the first-ever black Congresswoman of the United States. This biopic may be pedestrian in its by-the-book nature, but with its assured focus and strong lead turn from Regina King, it’s a fitting tribute to a genuine American trailblazer.
In 1972, Chisholm (King) launched a campaign to become the first black female president of the United States. Despite obstacles thrown in her face left and right due to her race and sex, she never gave up in her quest to secure the Democratic presidential nomination. This film offers a rousing retelling of the true story of the ups and downs of Chisholm’s time running for the highest office in the land.
This biopic feels very timely even five decades later. After hearing Chisholm’s story, you can’t help but wonder the different trajectory our country would’ve possibly taken, politically speaking, if she had won. She ran on a platform of race and gender equality, billing herself as a “catalyst for change,” all of which made Chisholm quite popular among her district (New York) and with younger, educated, black, and women voters in particular. But the ins and outs of the well-oiled political machine conspired to keep her on the outside.
The film, as is the case with the majority of biopics, only offers a selective (and very positive) portrait of Chisholm, carefully avoiding showing her flaws. She was a person to admire for sure, and King’s portrayal captures her personality as a strong, outspoken, and very confident black woman (in other words, the type of person that has weak-minded men shaking in their boots).
“Shirley” is a well made and immersive tribute to a woman that paved the way for so many others in government service. It’s an excellent introduction to a modern-day pioneer who embraced the spirit of America.
