Hidden Figures is a inspirational story that is made better by the performances of the cast. The powerhouse performance of the film is Taraji P. Henson as the lead character Katherine G. Johnson. She is the focal point of the film as it begins with her as a young girl in 6th grade. We learn how smart she is even at this age as she is naming all the shapes that comprise the stained glass window. It’s a cool visual that has each shape digital pop out as she labels them and draws them in her notebook.
Hidden Figures was a good time at the movies
Her interactions with Kevin Costner, her NASA boss, Jim Parsons, a co-worker, and Mahershala Ali, the love interest, are pretty great. Since it’s set in the 60’s in Virginia at Langley there are a lot of equal rights issues. They are even in effect at NASA, a place full of geniuses, and the struggle Katherine Johnson goes through is frustrating. Yet, her reaction to it and Costner’s progressive removal of policies make for some powerful scenes. It’s definitely inspiring and at the same time entertaining.
Henson’s co-stars Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan and Janelle Monáe as Mary Jackson take a backseat, but are excellent when they’re on-screen. Both characters have their own struggles to deal with both because of their race and their gender. Each story is compelling as they fight for what they deserve. Dorothy is in a battle of wills with Kirsten Dunst’s character. Mary is trying to get an engineering position, encouraged by Olek Krupa, but is up against the system. All three actresses give great performances and their story arcs, while uneven, are all extremely satisfying.
Good direction and Cinematography
The film is directed by Theodore Melfi who directed 2014’s St. Vincent starring Bill Murray. Both films have similar tones of a serious drama with distinct human elements. There is a bit of tension under the surface, but characters are often good willed. Even though both deal with fairly serious topics, there is enough light hearted moments to make the movie have a positive vibe. Hidden Figures definitely excels more as the stakes are much higher for all parties, but there are plenty of funny and happy moments.
The film is shot by Mandy Walker who was also the cinematographer for Australia, Shattered Glass, and last year’s Jane Got a Gun. Hidden Figures looks great, but I especially loved on dialogue scene shot in a bathroom. Two characters are having a very civil conversation, but are looking at each other’s reflections. It is a very traditional over-the-shoulder shot reverse-shot style, but utilizing the mirror to create the effect. The conversation concludes with the two women looking at each other as they are finally starting to see eye to eye. An act that will later pay off for one of the two characters.
Final Thoughts
Hidden Figures is an excellent film full of great performances. My daughter and I both enjoyed the film from beginning to end, even with the slightly over two hour run-time. It’s paced well and looks great. Hidden Figures earns the Not Quite Golden, Ponyboy rating and a definite recommendation from Berk Reviews.
Berkreviews.com 