Review of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020) by Sbastos — 20 Dec 2020
Screenplay and direction in Ma Rainey´s Black Bottom have merit but cannot avoid the trap of the filmed play. Viola Davis is a must. Chadwick Boseman has three very good scenes, but as a whole, he is several tones above.
Very irregular, typical case of overacting. Perhaps, as a consequence of a theater director and a relatively short career. Viola Davis on the other hand escapes this exaggerated theatrical tone. She deserves all the praise and leading acting awards, even with a small screen time.
Glynn Turman´s work as the pianist must be highlighted. Unfortunately, under the commotion over Chadwick Boseman's premature death, Turman has been ignored. In short, a good movie, but with some restrictions.
Above all, it, again, proves August Wilson's genius.
This review of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020) was written by Sbastos on 20 December 2020.
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom has generally received positive reviews.
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