'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
UPDATED MAR 23, 2024
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.

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