hidden figures complete movie guide answers
Hidden Figures⁚ Overview
Hidden Figures is a 2016 American biographical drama film directed by Theodore Melfi. It tells the true story of three African-American mathematicians at NASA during the 1960s.
The film vividly portrays the lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, showcasing their vital contributions to the early space program. Their story is one of overcoming racial and gender barriers.
Biographical Drama Film
This film is a biographical drama, focusing on the real lives of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. It highlights their experiences as African-American women working at NASA during the 1960s. The narrative portrays their struggles with both racial and gender discrimination, while emphasizing their significant contributions to the space race. This genre uses real life events as a base for an emotional and engaging story.
Historical Context
The film is set in the 1960s America, a time of significant social change. The era was marked by racial segregation and the intense competition of the Space Race.
1960s America
The 1960s in America were a period of profound social and political transformation, characterized by stark racial segregation and discrimination, particularly in the Southern states like Virginia, where the film is set; This era saw the rise of the Civil Rights Movement, challenging the unjust laws and practices of the time. It was a period of great struggle for equality and justice for African Americans.
Space Race Era
The Space Race, a defining aspect of the Cold War, fueled intense competition between the United States and the Soviet Union. This period saw both nations vying for supremacy in space exploration, pushing technological boundaries and driving significant advancements in science and engineering. NASA’s efforts during this time were crucial, with enormous pressure to achieve milestones like orbiting Earth and landing on the moon, shaping the era’s narrative.
Main Characters
The film centers on three brilliant African-American women⁚ Katherine Johnson, a gifted mathematician; Dorothy Vaughan, an expert programmer; and Mary Jackson, an aspiring engineer. Their stories are the heart of the movie.
Katherine Johnson (Goble)
Katherine Johnson, portrayed by Taraji P. Henson, is a brilliant mathematician whose calculations were crucial for NASA’s early space missions. She faces both racial and gender discrimination, yet her exceptional talent and dedication shine through. Her work was essential for John Glenn’s orbit, proving her invaluable contribution to the space race. Her character embodies perseverance and intellect.
Dorothy Vaughan
Dorothy Vaughan, played by Octavia Spencer, is a skilled mathematician and leader who supervises the West Area Computing Unit at NASA. She is a pragmatic and determined woman who anticipates the impact of computers on their work. She takes the initiative to learn FORTRAN programming to ensure her team’s relevance. Vaughan’s resourcefulness and foresight are key to her team’s success.
Mary Jackson
Mary Jackson, portrayed by Janelle Monáe, is a brilliant mathematician and engineer at NASA. Despite facing significant racial and gender discrimination, she aspires to become an engineer. She battles the system, taking night classes and successfully petitioning to attend a segregated school. Jackson’s determination and courage in the face of adversity are inspirational.
Plot Summary
The film centers on three African-American mathematicians at NASA in the 1960s. They face racial and gender discrimination while playing a key role in John Glenn’s orbit. Their work was crucial to the success of the space race.
African-American Mathematicians at NASA
The movie Hidden Figures highlights the crucial roles of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three brilliant African-American women working as mathematicians at NASA. Set during the early 1960s, the film portrays their significant contributions to the space program amidst racial segregation and discrimination. They served as human computers, providing vital calculations for space missions, including John Glenn’s orbit, and challenged existing societal norms.
Overcoming Racial and Gender Discrimination
In Hidden Figures, the protagonists face immense racial and gender discrimination at NASA during the 1960s. They are subjected to segregated facilities, unequal treatment, and limited opportunities. Despite these systemic barriers, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson persevere, demonstrating their exceptional mathematical abilities and challenging the prejudiced status quo. Their fight for recognition highlights the struggle for equal rights and opportunities in a deeply divided America.
Key Role in John Glenn’s Orbit
The film showcases the pivotal role Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson played in John Glenn’s historic orbit around the Earth. Their meticulous calculations and mathematical expertise were crucial for the success of the mission. Despite facing discrimination, their work proved invaluable and contributed significantly to the United States’ space race efforts. Their dedication and brilliance were essential for the safe return of astronaut John Glenn.
Technical Aspects
The film’s technical aspects, including directing choices and historical accuracy, enhance its overall impact. Theodore Melfi’s direction is praised for its effective storytelling, making the material all the more impactful.
Directing Choices
Theodore Melfi’s directing in Hidden Figures is lauded for its light touch, a quality not often found in dramas of this nature. This approach makes the film’s powerful message even more effective, allowing the audience to connect with the characters’ struggles. His choices in storytelling elevate the movie beyond a simple historical account, highlighting the emotional depth of the narrative. Melfi’s subtle hand allows the performances and the story to shine, creating a compelling viewing experience.
Historical Accuracy
Hidden Figures is based on the non-fiction book by Margot Lee Shetterly, striving for historical accuracy in its portrayal of the 1960s. The film depicts segregated facilities at NASA, such as the West Area Computing unit. While some dramatic liberties are taken, the core narrative and the struggles faced by Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson are rooted in real events. The movie also includes the IBM 7090, though the console shown was actually the later IBM 7094.
Themes
The film emphasizes perseverance and determination as the main characters overcome discrimination. It also highlights the fight for equal rights and the importance of recognizing the contributions of marginalized groups in history.
Perseverance and Determination
The core of the narrative showcases the unwavering perseverance of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. They face constant obstacles, including racial and gender discrimination, yet they remain committed to their work. Their determination to excel in their fields is a driving force, pushing them to overcome systemic barriers and make invaluable contributions to NASA’s success during the space race, inspiring viewers.
Fight for Equal Rights
The film highlights the relentless fight for equal rights that these women had to endure within the discriminatory environment of 1960s America. The movie emphasizes the racial segregation and gender bias they faced daily at NASA. It showcases their struggle for recognition, opportunity, and fair treatment in a system designed to hold them back. Their fight contributes to the larger civil rights movement.
Production Details
The film is based on Margot Lee Shetterly’s non-fiction book, Hidden Figures. Filming was completed in December 2016, following post-production that began in August 2016.
Based on Margot Lee Shetterly’s Book
The movie Hidden Figures is adapted from Margot Lee Shetterly’s 2016 non-fiction book, Hidden Figures⁚ The Story of the African-American Women Who Helped Win the Space Race. Shetterly’s work meticulously details the lives and careers of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, highlighting their critical roles as mathematicians at NASA during the space race. The book brought their untold stories to light and served as the foundational source for the film’s narrative.
Filming Timeline
The filming of Hidden Figures progressed through several key stages. By August 2016, the film had entered its post-production phase, indicating that principal photography had wrapped up. The movie was then marked as completed in December of the same year, ready for its initial release. A limited release began on December 25, 2016, followed by a wider release on January 6, 2017. This timeline reflects the efficient production schedule.
Critical Reception
Hidden Figures received overwhelmingly positive reviews upon its release. Critics and audiences praised the film for its inspiring story, powerful performances, and its historical importance. It garnered numerous awards and recognitions.
Positive Reviews and Impact
The film was lauded for its compelling narrative, which highlighted the significant contributions of these often-overlooked women. Critics praised the performances of Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, noting their portrayal of strong, intelligent, and determined characters. Hidden Figures resonated with audiences for its themes of perseverance and equality, making it a powerful and inspirational cinematic experience. Its impact was profound, sparking conversations about race, gender, and representation in STEM fields.
Awards and Recognition
Hidden Figures received numerous accolades, including multiple nominations at the Academy Awards, such as Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actress for Octavia Spencer. The film also earned recognition from the Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and other prestigious ceremonies. Its success at the box office and critical acclaim further solidified its place as a culturally significant and impactful movie, highlighting the importance of recognizing untold stories and celebrating diversity in film.
Comparisons to Other Movies
Hidden Figures joins films like A Beautiful Mind and The Theory of Everything, exploring the lives of mathematicians and physicists. These films often highlight the brilliance and struggles of their protagonists within their respective fields.
Films About Mathematicians and Physicists
Movies such as A Beautiful Mind, Proof, The Theory of Everything, and The Man Who Knew Infinity share a common thread with Hidden Figures. These films delve into the lives of brilliant minds, showcasing their exceptional talents and the personal challenges they face. They often explore themes of genius, societal impact, and the human condition within the realms of science and mathematics.
Legacy
Hidden Figures serves as an inspiration for future generations by highlighting the untold stories of remarkable women. It also underscores the importance of diversity and equal opportunities in STEM fields.
Inspiration for Future Generations
The film’s powerful narrative inspires young people, particularly women and minorities, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Hidden Figures demonstrates that with perseverance and talent, individuals can overcome systemic obstacles and achieve extraordinary feats. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and valuing diverse contributions to society, fostering a more inclusive future.
Highlighting Untold Stories
Hidden Figures brings to light the previously unacknowledged contributions of African-American women to NASA’s early space missions. The film emphasizes the vital role these women played, challenging historical narratives that often exclude or marginalize the accomplishments of marginalized groups. By telling their stories, the film underscores the need to recognize and celebrate the diverse individuals who have shaped history, thus enriching our understanding of the past.