PBS News Hour

Why a new film about Harriet Tubman focuses on freedom

The Underground Railroad’s most famous conductor, Harriet Tubman, is featured in a new film -- the first to share her story on the big screen. Director Kasi Lemmons and actress Cynthia Erivo, who stars as the title character in “Harriet,” sit down with Amna Nawaz to discuss balancing biography and action, how they researched the project, the criticism they’ve received and the film’s “female gaze.”

Why a new film about Harriet Tubman focuses on freedom

6m 35s

  • May 12, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    May 12, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode

    S2025 E132 - 57m 46s

    Monday on the News Hour, global markets surge as the United States and China announce a deal to roll back steep tariffs, for now. Hamas releases the last living American hostage held in Gaza in what's being described as a gesture of goodwill toward the Trump administration. Plus, the president signs an executive order attempting to lower drug prices in line with what other countries pay.

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