The 2016 biographical drama Hidden Figures airs tonight, August 27, on Film4 at 6.30pm. The film, which has been labelled 'inspiring', 'full of heart', and 'truly outstanding' by audiences, tells the untold story of three brilliant African-American mathematicians at NASA in the 1950s and 1960s.
Star-Studded Cast Brings History to Life
Starring Octavia Spencer, Taraji P Henson, and Janelle Monáe in leading roles, the film brings to life the stories of Dorothy Vaughan, Katherine Goble Johnson, and Mary Jackson respectively. The movie's official summary states: "Three female African-American mathematicians play a pivotal role in astronaut John Glenn's launch into orbit while dealing with racial and gender discrimination."
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter in 2017 about her decision to take up the role, Spencer shared: "After doing a little research, I realized these women were real. I got a little angry that history had obscured their contributions to the space program and, with what’s going on in this country today, part of me just felt sad. It was about time the world found out about them, and I wanted to be part of that telling."
Critical and Audience Acclaim
Hidden Figures was nominated for three Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actress, and boasts a near-perfect 93% score on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised the film, with one writing: "Do yourself a favour and see Hidden Figures. It's that good." Another reviewer said: "Overall, Hidden Figures is an inspiring, empowering feature with stellar performances and a strong social message at its core."
One critic lauded the film's ability to stand out: "It is the subtlety and universality of Hidden Figures which makes this a cinematic journey that stands apart from the pack; just like Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson." A fourth reviewer added: "Hidden Figures is compelling, full of heart, and engaging. It's a transforming story that balances humour with drama. A must-see film that allows important themes to play out and is both heartwarming and motivational."
Audience Reactions and Tonight's Broadcast
Audiences are equally enamoured with the biographical drama, as one fan writes: "I love the movie, the story was good ,and it was base off real events which makes the story more captivating in my opinion 5 stars all the way." Another audience review on IMDb reads: "Based upon a true story about the people behind the scenes at NASA in the early 1960's, it has something for the whole family — fantastic writing, award-winning performances, historically accurate events, settings and fashion. Coming out of the crowded theatre, everyone was upbeat and raving about the movie. This is a must-see — by far, the best movie I've seen in a long time!"
While one viewer said: "The hype is justified. This movie is incredible. So inspirational." Yet another user review says: "Outstanding film. Based on a true story and no doubt with some dramatic license it is truly an outstanding story that enlightens and holds your interest throughout. The performances by all involved are worthy of awards, the editing is perfect, direction is perfect."
One fan of the movie adds: "One of the greatest historical movies ever. The movie shows all the struggles of people in that era and how the Civil Rights Movement was involved in NASA. All the actors did a phenomenal job and showed some of the greatest performances ever. This movie deserves many awards for how great it is." Hidden Figures airs this evening on Film4 at 6.30pm.
