Hidden Figures is an autobiographical film directed by Theodore Melfi. The journey is about three dedicated female mathematicians: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn and Mary Jackson. They serve as the brains behind one of the greatest procedures in history, the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Set in the 1960s the group of women tackle all obstacles of gender and race, as the theme of racism and sexism is prominent in the film. Their positive attitude is what creates success, and the best of American Heroes.
I had never felt so angry at the way a character was treated. One memorable character that made me feel this way is Katherine Johnson. I was overwhelmed by the emotions she brought to the screen. I felt the sorrow and the anger when Katherine agonizingly says, “There are no bathrooms. There are no coloured bathrooms in this building”. I could see the pain reflect through her face, words and expressions. It was definitely despairing to watch, and the more she spoke the more I became attached to her character. I liked the way Melfi portrayed Katherine as a strong, courageous women. I was inspired by her ability to use her voice, and her ability to stand up for herself. For me, I was naturally able to feel the anger on the way Katherine was treated, but more significantly, made me realize the significance of racism and sexism in the 1960s. In addition, to drawing my sympathy, her character drew my attention to the issues of racism and sexism, and evidently highlighted that she is a true hero for confronting issues that are still prominent in today`s society.
Hidden figures reveals a problematic reality for our society, as I see that women of colour are overrepresented as victims of racism and sexism. The film portrays this in poignant ways, and therefore differentiates itself as Melfi depicts the hardships of Katherine, Mary and Dorothy to address the issues of racism and sexism in the workplace of 1960s. The film opened my eyes to the reality of race and gender equality, and how it affected coloured women from living a normal life. One scene that drew my attention was when Mary faces a judge, as she says “I plan on being an engineer at NASA. But I can`t do that by taking classes at an all-white school. And I can`t change the colour of my skin. So, I have no choice but to be the first”.
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This scene is impactful, because it drew my attention to the endless work the African American women have done for our society, to make sure everyone has an equal opportunity. I think that the film signifies how gender and race can shape an individual, and to the hardships and barriers, particularly women of colour face in our society. I may not know what it`s like to be the first member of my family to go to university, however, we are familiar with the challenges these experiences bring. We may not be innovators in our society, but we can still understand the feelings of being first. The film reaches out to the audience to stand up for those who can`t speak for themselves.
I have to say Hidden Figures is one film that every teenager should watch. It is possibly the most moving, inspirational and captivating film I have come across. In my opinion, the film distinguished itself, because it was packed with important morals that are still relevant in our society, and particularly towards teenagers. One significant moral that Melfi conveys is that every individual should pursue their dreams and goals. This may be something we already understand, but I believe that execution of pursuing a dream can be far difficult than we imagine. The film reminded me that life can be difficult. However, I believe that hardships should not deter us from persevering to realise our dreams. For me, hardships are the beginning of a new start, and when faced with its greatest challenges, the remainder of our impossible, miraculous realities can be the inspirations we need to carry on. “It always seems impossible until its done”- Nelson Mandela.
