History Lesson

Rating: 8/10 (19 January 2017)

Hidden Figures is, as the title states exactly that. Three black women math geniuses, along with several others, were used as human computers to calculate intricate formulas necessary for the first manned space shots in 1961. The film is an important history lesson about race and expectations in America. The struggles endured by these brave women is heart breaking. This was the time of separate but equal schools, bathrooms, drinking fountains, and every other facet of life that we now take for granted in a supposed post racial country. John Glenn is shown to be a true hero, not just as the first man in space, but as a color blind human being who puts his faith on a brilliant black woman whose calculations he would rely on for a successful space mission. A bit too long at over two hours, but still one of the ten best movies of the year with a great ensemble cast.