2016 film “Hidden figures” touches on racism and female brilliance.

During the space race, a team of female African-American NASA mathematicians are tasked with calculating the launch and safe return of astronaut John Glenn.

During the film the lead characters face adversity, which they push to overcome.

Acting is a high in the film.

Taraji P. Henson did a great job in the leading role. Her performance was filled with emotional power and energy. She didn’t sound over-the-top and her lines were convincing. The other actors did a great job as well.

The cinematography is superb.

Top notch lighting and set design make the audience feel as though they’ve been transported to 1963 at the NASA headquarters.

Numerous historical films come out ‘cookie cutter’.

There are a few exceptions such as: “The Right Stuff”, “Apollo 13” and “Touching the Void”.  These films break norms.

However, “Hidden Figures” conforms to typical films in the genre. Viewers know how it’s going to end just by looking at the trailer. There’s nothing surprising about it for that reason.

“Hidden Figures” is still worth a watch, due to its wonderful acting and cinematography.

Rating: 6/10