In
the early 1960s, NASA is desperate to keep pace with the Russians who are first
in space with a satellite and manned launch.
Despite segregation laws and statutes that hinder job advancement and higher education,
three women of color including a math prodigy Katherine Johnson (Henson), a
talented computer expert Dorothy Vaughan (Spencer), and engineer Mary Jackson
(Monáe), defy the odds in helping the US
space program at a critical point in the ‘space race’. As the trio, led by Johnson, strive to prove
themselves in a male dominated world and the coming computer revolution,
astronaut John Glenn prepares to pilot the most challenging, dangerous US space
flight ever, and the calculations for a safe orbit and reentry are in question
as the countdown begins for history.
Much
of what happens is based on fact, a fascinating history lesson amid the Cold
War and civil rights movement. (The film has an added aura with the passing of
the real life Glenn.) Henson is outstanding in a choice role, and
Costner as a NASA director compliments her perfectly. Spencer has the best
comeback line, and Monáe is an actress to watch. The balance of serious drama,
tension, and humor is well done as each female lead gets a moment to shine while
overcoming great adversity.
Never
short on heartwarming scenes, this amazing story (from the novel) is done
justice by scriptwriters Allison Schroeder and director Theodore Melfi. Watch out for this one-like The Blind Side, it has tremendous
goodwill and its solid work should garner Oscar attention.
***1/2
of **** stars
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