Hidden Figures is an inspiring and wonderfully filmed movie because it highlights the contribution of African American women to NASA’s many years of operation. Many of their contributions to NASA have not been recognized or heard of by many in today’s society. Hidden Figures not only dramatizes these contributions accurately but also the racial tension of the 1960s.

A beautifully mastered aspect of this film is the soundtrack, mainly produced by singer-songwriter, rapper, and producer, Pharrell Williams. The score he created reflects the black music of the 1960s. Each song has its own signature funk and groove that corresponds with scenes throughout the film, evoking emotions from the audience only to be conjured from soulful music. By far, the soundtrack was one of the most noteworthy aspects of Hidden Figures.

Most movies in Hollywood about the tribulations of black people tend to focus on slavery. In my opinion, it is a negative and overdone viewpoint in cinema. Hidden Figures instead creates a different storyline that portrays the struggles of blacks yet still features overlooked contributions of the black individuals. I applaud Hidden Figures for paving the way for different storylines for black Hollywood.

Hidden Figures follows the true story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three African American mathematicians working for NASA in the 1960s. Facing many obstacles and adversity, they become the brains behind the Project Mercury, which sent the human race into Earth’s orbit and returned safely. Together, the trio broke down barriers for women and people in color in the science community.

2016 was a tremendous year for people of color in the entertainment industry. Hidden Figures can be compared to the work of other women of color, such as Beyonce’s Lemonade, which themes include feminism and black womanhood.

All this builds up to the fantastic cast that exquisitely depicts this true story. The cast acted fluidly together and truly dramatized the film accurately. The lead actress, Taraji P. Henson, interpreted her role with passion felt beyond the screen. Her skills in especially climatic points left chills.

With Black History Month around the corner, I encourage readers to see this film. It will open your eyes to the unknowns of black history, features an iconic soundtrack, and offers a different, more positive, viewpoint of black history.