Some films are so inspirational that people have drawn life values from them that shaped them positively and put them on the right track. I have always admired how brave and powerful the female voice can be when she stands up for what she believes in.
I have watched some inspirational movies where a woman took control of her life and braved the challenges that were thrown at her. But Hidden Figures (2016) stands out for me amongst them in response to the twitter prompt.
Hidden Figure is an American biopic that brings to life the true story of three enigmatic and brilliant women (Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson) who not only changed the course of history for the women folks but also changed the narrative for people of colour, especially the blacks. They remind me of a quote by Maya Angelou—
“Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women.”
This film is about three African-American women in the 1960s who worked at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) during the period when the US was frantic about sending American astronauts into space. These women changed history and saved the day when they discovered a flaw in the space capsule design and worked with the astronauts to achieve safe and successful space missions.
The film was excellently directed and edited. I admire how it interpreted the truth of the discrimination towards the women in a supposedly 'men' field. I cannot imagine how hard it must have been for these three remarkable women to have risen to such positions. Even when the laws were against them working in certain departments due to their qualifications, they went to court and got a ruling allowing them to study (night classes). These women received the requisite certificates and went on to change lives.
The cast was great. The parts of the three brave women were played by skilful actresses: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe. Their acting was outstanding. The film not only portrayed their activities at work but made their characters relatable by focusing on their families, relationships and communities. These women were united in their cause and spoke with one voice. Scenes where if one of them closed before others, she would wait for the other two and they would ride home together are powerful.
Also, the focus on space activities in NASA was entertaining especially for viewers (like me) who were not born at the time of the Space Race. In this film, we get to see John Glenn and other astronauts work towards the first successful orbit around the earth.
As we celebrate Women's International Day, this is one film I'll recommend to inspire and encourage young minds. I'll say this film is more than a history lesson. It is remarkably inspirational as well.
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Image 1: Imdb, edited with Canva
Other images sourced from Imdb
