The biographical period drama Hidden Figures is airing on Film4 tonight at 6.30pm, with viewers hailing it as a 'masterpiece' and a 'must-see' film that leaves a lasting impression.
Audiences have described the 'marvellously entertaining' film as 'one of the best films ever', with some devoted viewers declaring they've watched it 'at least half a dozen times' and still find themselves captivated by it.
A celebrated true story
The film features Octavia Spencer, Taraji P Henson, and Janelle Monáe in the leading roles, with the trio portraying three brilliant and historically pivotal African-American mathematicians working at NASA. Written, directed and produced by Theodore Melfi, with a screenplay co-written alongside Allison Schroeder, Hidden Figures is loosely adapted from non-fiction author Margot Lee Shetterly's 2016 book of the same name.
The film recounts the real-life story of Katherine Goble Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson — three of the sharpest minds at NASA during the 1950s and 60s, who played a pivotal role in one of the greatest space operations in history. The three lead actresses are complemented by Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, and Glen Powell.
Critical and commercial success
The film's official synopsis reads: "Three brilliant African American women at NASA, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, serve as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history, the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit, a stunning achievement that restored the nation's confidence, turned around the Space Race and galvanized the world."
Hidden Figures proved to be an enormous commercial triumph, amassing an extraordinary $236 million at the worldwide box office against a production budget of just $25 million. Octavia Spencer was particularly singled out for praise for her depiction of Dorothy, earning nominations across all the prestigious Best Supporting Actress categories following the film's release, including an Oscar, a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award (SAG).
The film itself secured three Academy Award nominations in total, covering Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Boasting an impressive 93% approval rating from both critics and audiences alike, the film has proved to be a resounding triumph on every level.
Viewer reactions
One critic said of the film: "It's a feel good, inspirational and entertaining film with winning performances across the board and an incredibly valuable history lesson." Another reviewer added: "Boy or girl, man or woman, black or white, any audience member who has ever marvelled at the Space Age of our national history will find much to love in Hidden Figures."
A third critic wrote: "It's an important film to be sure, but also a well-written and well-acted piece that's as inspiring as it is entertaining. It made me laugh and cry, with an ending that made me want to get up and cheer."
Audiences have been left just as enchanted, with one viewer saying: "One of the best films I have ever seen, truly a film to inspire anyone who sees it." A user review posted to IMDB says: "Hidden Figures is a marvellously entertaining film. The script adaptation by Allison Schroeder and Theodore Melfi tells its true story accurately and engagingly. Melfi also directs and uses his talented and award-worthy cast to thrill us, to make us cheer and give us moments of humour and just plain fun."
"I was impressed at how much this movie packed in without seeming cluttered, how much it affected me emotionally without being manipulative, and how much appreciation I gained for these women. Don't let Hidden Figures be a hidden treasure. See it soon! It's out of this world. A+."
One fan of the film shared: "I loved it so much, I purchased it. And I've watched it at least a half dozen times already. Okay, maybe more. The acting was so good, the obstacles these women overcame in their lives... beautifully acted. These women earned their place in history and helped push forward the science of space travel. It's a must see!"
While another viewer said: "Hidden Figures is one of those rare films that leaves a lasting impression every time you watch it. I've seen it multiple times now, and each viewing only deepens my appreciation for its powerful storytelling and exceptional performances."
Hidden Figures is set to broadcast tonight on Film4 at 6.30pm.
