Hidden Figures (2016) - Breaking Barriers and Defying Odds
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Release Date: December 25, 2016
Genres: Biography, Drama, History
Language: English
Director: Theodore Melfi
Writer: Allison Schroeder, Theodore Melfi
Stars: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe
Top Casts:
- Taraji P. Henson as Katherine G. Johnson
- Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan
- Janelle Monáe as Mary Jackson
- Kevin Costner as Al Harrison
- Kirsten Dunst as Vivian Mitchell
Awards
Hidden Figures was nominated for three Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress (Octavia Spencer), and Best Adapted Screenplay. The movie also won several other prestigious awards, including:
- Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture
- Satellite Awards for Best Ensemble
- Hollywood Film Award for Ensemble of the Year
Synopsis of Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures tells the inspiring story of three African American women – Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson – who worked at NASA and played a crucial role in one of the most important missions in American space history: John Glenn's launch into orbit. Set during the 1960s, the film explores the women's struggles against racism and sexism as they rose to become key contributors in the field of space exploration. Known in some regions as Figures Cachées, the movie highlights how these brilliant mathematicians broke barriers and defied the odds to achieve greatness.
With its blend of historical fact and drama, Hidden Figures emphasizes themes of perseverance and teamwork, making it a highly relevant and educational watch.
Moral of the Movie
At its core, Hidden Figures is about overcoming adversity through resilience and intelligence. The film shows that it’s not just individual brilliance that leads to success, but also the support and collaboration of others. Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary faced institutionalized racism and sexism, yet they stayed true to their goals. They demonstrate that determination, combined with hard work, can break down even the most rigid barriers.
The message is clear: one must always fight for what is right, even when society seems set against them. Their story serves as a reminder that change is possible, but it requires courage and unity to break long-standing traditions of inequality.
What Do We Get to Learn from the Movie?
Beyond the scientific achievements, Hidden Figures also explores friendship, family, and the power of love. The bond between Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary is central to the film, and it’s heartwarming to see how their shared struggles and victories bring them closer. They are not just co-workers – they are friends who lift each other up in tough times.
The film also shines a light on the importance of family support. Katherine’s family is her anchor, and their unwavering belief in her dreams shows the role of loved ones in overcoming life’s challenges. The love between the characters is subtle yet powerful, emphasizing how love, in all its forms, helps us push through obstacles.
Similar Movies
If you loved Hidden Figures, here are some similar films that share its themes of perseverance and historic achievements:
Where to Watch
You can watch Hidden Figures on major streaming platforms like Disney+, Amazon Prime, and Hulu.
Prequels / Sequels
There are no prequels or sequels to Hidden Figures. However, the film is based on a true story, with the book Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly serving as its source material. The book provides more detailed insight into the lives of these extraordinary women.
Popularity
Hidden Figures is widely recognized for its historical significance and powerful storytelling. The film resonated globally due to its themes of equality and women empowerment, particularly in regions like the U.S. and U.K. Audiences from diverse backgrounds connected with the characters’ struggles against racial and gender discrimination.
The movie is based on real events, specifically the contributions of African American women to the U.S. space program. Katherine Johnson's calculations were key in John Glenn's successful mission, a fact that solidifies the film's impact.
Fun Facts
- Taraji P. Henson, who plays Katherine, has a mathematics degree in real life!
- NASA allowed the filmmakers to shoot in some of the real-life locations where the events took place.
- John Glenn, the astronaut portrayed in the film, personally requested Katherine Johnson’s confirmation on his launch calculations.
- The real Katherine Johnson lived to be 101 years old and passed away in 2020.
- Pharrell Williams was an executive producer and contributed songs to the soundtrack.
Character Highlights
- Katherine G. Johnson: The brilliant mathematician who broke racial and gender barriers at NASA.
- Dorothy Vaughan: NASA’s first African-American supervisor and a self-taught programmer.
- Mary Jackson: The first African-American female engineer at NASA, determined to change laws to pursue her dream.
Quotes
- “We all get to the peak together, or we don’t get there at all.” – Al Harrison
- “I’m just doing my job.” – Katherine G. Johnson
- “Every time we get a chance to get ahead, they move the finish line.” – Mary Jackson
Soundtrack Information
The movie’s soundtrack features songs from Pharrell Williams, Hans Zimmer, and Benjamin Wallfisch. Pharrell’s music adds a modern touch to the film, balancing the historical setting with an upbeat vibe.
Thematic Analysis
The key themes in Hidden Figures revolve around courage, equality, and friendship. The film beautifully portrays the battle against systemic discrimination while celebrating the strength of teamwork. It teaches us that every barrier can be broken, and true progress is only possible when we work together.
Behind-the-Scenes
Hidden Figures was primarily shot in Atlanta, Georgia, including at Morehouse College. The production team worked closely with NASA to ensure historical accuracy, which is why many of the sets closely resemble actual NASA offices and labs.
Adaptation
The movie is adapted from the non-fiction book Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly. While the film condenses timelines and simplifies some technical details, it stays true to the core narrative of these incredible women’s contributions to NASA.
Cultural Impact
Hidden Figures has had a lasting cultural impact, sparking discussions on race, gender equality, and the hidden contributions of African Americans to history. The film empowered many, especially women of color, to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
Box Office Collection
Hidden Figures grossed over $236 million worldwide, making it one of the most successful films of 2016.
5 Key Takeaways from the Movie
- Perseverance is key to breaking barriers.
- Teamwork makes even the most impossible tasks achievable.
- Family and friends are critical in overcoming personal challenges.
- Equality should be fought for, no matter the cost.
- Historical contributions of minorities deserve recognition.
Director's Cut
Theodore Melfi, the director, has mentioned that his vision for the film was to tell a story that’s both uplifting and historically accurate. He wanted the film to focus on the humanity behind the numbers and calculations.
Story: Hidden Figures - A Story of Courage and Determination
Hidden Figures, directed by Theodore Melfi, is an inspiring film that tells the untold story of three brilliant African American women who played pivotal roles at NASA during the early years of the space race. Released in 2016, the film stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe as Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, respectively. Their groundbreaking contributions to space exploration challenge the status quo, showcasing resilience, intelligence, and determination.
Breaking Barriers
Set in the 1960s, Hidden Figures opens with a powerful depiction of racial segregation in the United States. The film introduces Katherine Johnson, a gifted mathematician whose exceptional skills in geometry and analytical thinking are quickly recognized. However, her path is fraught with obstacles due to her race and gender. Katherine, along with her friends Dorothy and Mary, must navigate a segregated workplace where their talents are overlooked and marginalized.
Despite the challenges, Katherine’s determination and intellect shine through when she is assigned to the Space Task Group at NASA. Here, she becomes an essential contributor to the calculations that will ultimately launch John Glenn into orbit. Henson’s portrayal of Katherine is both compelling and heartfelt, capturing her struggle for recognition in a male-dominated field.
Empowering Friendships
The film also highlights the importance of female friendships and support systems. Dorothy Vaughan, who leads the West Area Computers, is determined to learn and master the new IBM computer that threatens to make her team obsolete. Spencer’s portrayal of Dorothy showcases her leadership skills and her commitment to empowering her colleagues. She takes it upon herself to teach the other women how to program, embodying the spirit of camaraderie that drives them to succeed together.
Meanwhile, Mary Jackson aspires to become an engineer, facing numerous barriers along the way. Janelle Monáe’s performance is both inspiring and relatable, showcasing Mary’s determination to break through the glass ceiling. Her journey to obtain the necessary education and qualifications reflects the broader struggle for equal opportunities and representation in STEM fields.
Triumph Over Adversity
As the narrative unfolds, Hidden Figures beautifully illustrates the systemic racism and sexism faced by these women. The film does not shy away from addressing the harsh realities of segregation, from the separate bathrooms for black employees to the challenges of gaining access to education and resources. However, the tone remains uplifting, emphasizing the women’s resilience and determination to overcome these obstacles.
Katherine’s role becomes increasingly significant as she not only proves her worth to her colleagues but also earns the respect of her male counterparts, including Al Harrison (Kevin Costner), the director of the Space Task Group. His decision to remove the “colored” sign from the bathroom symbolizes a shift toward inclusivity and acknowledgment of their contributions.
A Historic Achievement
The film culminates in the successful launch of John Glenn, showcasing the crucial calculations performed by Katherine. The tension leading up to the launch emphasizes the stakes involved, highlighting the importance of teamwork and collaboration. The emotional weight of this moment resonates deeply, underscoring the significance of their contributions to one of humanity’s greatest achievements.
Hidden Figures is not just a story about the women behind NASA’s success; it is a celebration of the power of perseverance, friendship, and courage. The film poignantly captures the struggles and triumphs of these remarkable women, reminding us that their contributions were instrumental in shaping history.
A Lasting Impact
Hidden Figures received critical acclaim, garnering three Academy Award nominations and inspiring audiences worldwide. Its impact extends beyond entertainment, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and diversity in STEM fields. The film challenges viewers to reflect on the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in achieving equality and inclusivity.
In a world that often overlooks the contributions of marginalized voices, Hidden Figures stands as a testament to the power of determination and the strength of women who dare to challenge societal norms. It encourages us to celebrate the achievements of those who came before us, paving the way for future generations to reach for the stars.
By shining a light on the stories of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, Hidden Figures inspires us to embrace our own potential and to recognize the invaluable contributions of those who have fought for their place in history.
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