Hidden Figures (2017)

Usually when I hear that a movie is fantastic, I tend to be underwhelmed when I actually go to see it as I set my expectations wayyyyy too high. I had heard from one person after another that Hidden Figures (2017) was amazing and naturally set my expectations accordingly. But, for once, I wasn’t disappointed.

Hidden Figures was incredible. It told a story that was remarkable on its own but even better when paired with an excellent cast and production crew, allowing the plot take flight (pun intended). If you don’t already know, the movie expands on the oppressed women of color in the space industry that helped make the 1962 Friendship 7 launch a success.

What I really appreciated about the film was that it didn’t just focus on the divide between blacks and whites (although that theme was obviously prevalent), but, rather, it emphasized how certain characters actually bridged the divide between the two, making it possible for women of color to advance at NASA after working inferior positions. The movie managed to turn a terrible period of systemic racism and segregation into a story of assimilation and inclusion.

Although I have never had to personally endure the discrimination that African-Americans do, the film did a wonderful job at giving me invaluable insight into what it felt like to be a black in a white man’s world in the 1960s. At some points during the movie, I couldn’t help but cry with disgust at how poorly African-American workers - and people in general - were treated. And what’s worse is that the movie was absolutely a much milder interpretation of the actual segregation that took place during that period.

The cast consisted of some key players: Taraji P. Henson, Janelle Monáe, Octavia Spencer, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, and Jim Parsons. An unlikely bunch, they all came together seamlessly for their roles in Hidden Figures, each bringing flare and charisma to the table for their respective characters.

If you haven’t already, I would highly recommend seeing this film. It’s a must-see, feel-good triumph that leaves you craving more of the like.