Review of Hidden Figures (2016) by Byron B — 01 Aug 2018

An uplifting picture based on a book and time in history when America was reaching for space, but also struggling to make strides in civil rights for women of color. Watching these women persevere as mathematicians at NASA warms your heart, but many in today's political/sociological climate would recognize the societal problems of racism and sexism are still an issue.

It is even more disheartening that our nation is no longer making the effort it once was to explore the stars let alone our own solar system in the way we were then. Anyway, the story in Hidden Figures hits all the points you'd expect from a prestige picture.

The well-defined characters and ensemble cast led by Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe are strong. Of course the film takes some dramatic license to amp up the thrills at key moments, but overall is excellently put together with respect.