'Regina King is a treasure': Netflix's 'Shirley' garners rave reviews for its exceptional performances

The much-anticipated film, starring Regina King as the titular character, premiered on Netflix on Friday, March 22
Regina King ate and left no crumbs with her portrayal of Shirley Chisholm in Netflix’s latest biographical drama 'Shirley' (@Netflix)
Regina King ate and left no crumbs with her portrayal of Shirley Chisholm in Netflix’s latest biographical drama 'Shirley' (@Netflix)

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK: 'Shirley' has exceeded fans' expectations since its release on Netflix! The much-anticipated film, starring Regina King as the titular character, premiered on the OTT platform on Friday, March 22.

Directed and written by John Ridley, the movie chronicles the 1972 presidential campaign of Shirley Chisholm, a significant figure in American political history.

Regina King receives praise for her outstanding performance in 'Shirley'

Regina King in 'Shirley' (@Netflix)
Regina King in 'Shirley' (@Netflix)

Regina King, honored with the Academy Award, Emmy Award, and Golden Globe Award, reaffirms her acting prowess with a stellar performance in Netflix's 'Shirley'.

In this cinematic biography, she skillfully brings the late American politician Shirley Chisholm back to life with her convincing portrayal.

Praising her work, a fan took to X and wrote, "Regina King is exceptional as Shirley Chisholm! The film SHIRLEY is incredible!"

"Regina King is one of our living greats. Her turn as Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm in John Ridley's Shirley is some of her best work yet," tweeted another fan.



 



 

An impressed fan said, "Regina King is a treasure," while another X user said, "Just finished watching Shirley on Netflix, entire cast did what had to be done and Regina, give her ALL her flowers!!!!"



 



 

Someone reviewed the film and said, "Shirley is an awesome story about women empowerment and being fearless on making a positive change for everybody. The in-depth details of Shirley campaign while overcoming racism/ sexism are engaging. Regina King performance embodies Shirley Chisholm. Another great performance."



 

A fan commented, "I don’t watch biopics for historical accuracy. I read books. I watch them for inspiration. Regina King did that! I burst into tears after that one! What a tribute!" "Shirley was a really great watch, beautiful done," said another.



 



 

What is the plot of the Netflix film 'Shirley'?

Regina King as Shirley Chisholm in a still from 'Shirley' (@Netflix)
Regina King as Shirley Chisholm in a still from 'Shirley' (@Netflix)

'Shirley' is a biographical drama that chronicles Shirley Chisholm's historic journey as the first Black woman elected to Congress, as well as her groundbreaking decision to run for president in the 1972 elections.

Additionally, the film offers glimpses into her personal life, including her intricate relationships with her sister and husband.

The official synopsis reads, "Shirley Chisholm makes a trailblazing run for the 1972 Democratic presidential nomination after becoming the first Black woman elected to Congress."

The film also brings together an ensemble cast of Lance Reddick, Lucas Hedges, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Andre Holland, and Terrence Howard.

'Shirley' is now streaming on Netflix.

GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

James Gunn responds to studio interference rumors surrounding ‘Man of Tomorrow’ following his departure from DC Studios’ leadership.
2026-11-14T17:38:38.000Z
Margot Robbie is set to star in ‘The Week of Pain,’ a new film from A24 and ‘The Drama’ director Kristoffer Borgli.
2026-11-14T02:51:29.000Z
Christian Cousins' brother pays tribute to the former child star, who appeared in 'Kindergarten Cop' alongside his twin brother Joey
2026-11-13T17:23:35.000Z
Jason Voorhees is returning to the big screen with franchise veteran Steve Miner stepping behind the camera
2026-11-13T13:00:02.000Z
Johnny Depp brings a darker, horror-inspired take on Charles Dickens' beloved Christmas classic to the big screen.
2026-11-13T09:02:22.000Z
The trailer introduces Nero, a cat navigating the feline-run underworld of Venice
2026-11-13T04:23:14.000Z
Ryan Reynolds used a ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ clip to respond to ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ rumors
2026-11-13T03:38:59.000Z
The upcoming film 'What Doesn’t Kill Us' will move forward with a personal tribute to the late 'Godzilla' actress.
2026-11-12T20:18:37.000Z
Marvel is bringing an updated version of 'Avengers: Endgame' to Disney+, giving fans a revisit to Infinity Saga finale ahead of 'Avengers: Doomsday'.
2026-11-11T14:18:27.000Z
Paris Hilton and Julia Fox join as Olivia Rodrigo unveils her first Christmas single in Prime Video’s ‘Clashing Through the Snow’ trailer
2026-11-11T11:43:35.000Z