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Hidden Figure film

Theatrical release poster

Hidden Figures is a 2016 American biographical drama film. It is directed by Theodore Melfi and the script is written by Melfi and Allison Schroeder. This film is based on a true story. It is loosely based on the 2016 non-fiction book of the same name Hidden Figure by Margot Lee Shetterly about three female African American mathematicians such as Katherine Goble Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae), who worked at NASA during the Space Race. Other stars include Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, and Glen Powell. The cinematography was by Mandy Walker, edited by Peter Teschner, music by Hans Zimmer, Pharrell Williams and Benjamin Wallfisch and production companies by Fox 2000 Pictures, Chernin Entertainment and Levantine Films.

Hidden Figures had a limited release on December 25, 2016, by 20th Century Fox, before going wide on January 6, 2017. The film received positive reviews, with praise for the performances (particularly Henson, Spencer and Monae), the writing, direction, cinematography, emotional tone, and historical accuracy, although some argued it featured a white saviour narrative. The film was a commercial success, grossing $236 million worldwide against its $25 million production budget. Deadline Hollywood noted it as one of the most profitable releases of 2016 and estimated that it made a net profit of $95.5 million.

Three female characters in this film are Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae)
Katherine Goble Johnson (Taraji P. Henson) and Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer)

Plot of the film

Approximately a year (early 1961 to early 1962) the height of the American Soviet space race--in the lives of three female friends, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, who worked in the female African American computing pool at NASA Langley, is portrayed. Their then-little-publicized work at advancing the US space program is dramatized, work that they were able to accomplish while struggling with both gender and racial issues, the latter due to much of the US, including NASA, still being segregated. Mary Jackson, who works in the space-capsule heat shield team, was prompted by one of her fellow engineering colleagues to apply for an upper-level engineering position since she acknowledges her expertise in the field. In what is ultimately a Catch-22, Mary does not have the requisite qualifications for the promotion, and she is unable to obtain those qualifications since the extension courses are not offered in any high school accessible to African Americans in Hampton, where she resides. Her quest is also hindered by her husband, Levi Jackson, a civil rights activist who views the progress of African Americans narrowly. Dorothy Vaughan has been the acting supervisor of the section, carrying the responsibilities that came with it without the title or the salary that was attached. Dorothy lays the blame for not being promoted largely on the actions of her white supervisor, Vivian Mitchell. As the first IBM mainframe computer is acquired by NASA, Dorothy, despite the opposition that she is facing, seeks to teach herself as much as possible about its potential in a bid to save not only her own position but that of the whole African American women computer section during this era of transition. Katherine Goble, a single mother, is a mathematical genius whose aptitude in analytical geometry lands her a position in the Space Task Group, led by Al Harrison, a pragmatic man who will do anything to complete the task. To reach Harrison, Katherine has to navigate around the jurisdiction of chief engineer Paul Stafford, who dismisses her as a lesser functionary and frequently invokes the rationale of security clearance to prevent Katherine from being able to perform her professional responsibilities efficiently. In addition, her developing relationship with National Guardsman Jim Johnson, which began inauspiciously, is portrayed with more drama.

Character performance

Taraji P. Henson as Katherine Goble Johnson - Mathematician
Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan - Mathematician and supervisor
Janelle Monae as Mary Jackson - Mathematician and engineer
Kevin Costner as Al Harrison - Director of the Space Task Group (STG)
Kirsten Dunst as Vivian Mitchell - Supervisor
Jim Parsons as Paul Stafford - Head engineer in STG
Mahershala Ali as Jim Johnson - A military officer who romances and eventually marries Katherine
Aldis Hodge as Levi Jackson
Glen Powell as John Glenn - Astronaut
Kimberly Quinn as Ruth
Olek Krupa as Karl Zielinski - Engineer (a fictionalized version of Kazimierz Czarnecki, who encourages Mary Jackson)
Saniyya Sidney as Constance Johnson
Lidya Jewett as young Katherine Coleman (Katherine Goble Johnson)

1. Taraji P. Henson as Katherine Goble Johnson - Mathematician

Taraji P. Henson portrayed the brilliant mathematician Katherine Goble Johnson in the 2016 film "Hidden Figures." The movie is based on the true story of three African American women Katherine Goble Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson who worked at NASA during the Space Race and made significant contributions to the success of the U.S. space program. Katherine Goble Johnson, played by Henson, was a mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of several NASA missions, including John Glenn's orbital flight. The film highlights the challenges these women faced due to racial and gender discrimination, as well as their incredible achievements and perseverance.

1. Early Life and Career

In the film, we see Katherine's exceptional talent for mathematics from a young age. She was a child prodigy who skipped several grades and attended high school by the age of 10. After completing her education, she began her career at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA.

2. NASA Contributions

Katherine's role at NASA involved performing complex mathematical calculations that were essential for the success of space missions. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, she quickly proved her worth through her brilliance and determination. Her calculations were critical for the trajectory analysis of several missions, including the first American manned orbital flight by John Glenn in 1962.

3. Overcoming Discrimination

The film highlights the significant challenges Katherine faced as an African-American woman in a predominantly white and male-dominated field. She worked in a segregated division, the West Area Computing Unit, and had to deal with separate restrooms, cafeterias, and workspaces. Despite these obstacles, Katherine's resilience and dedication shone through, and she earned the respect of her colleagues.

4. Personal Life

The film also delves into Katherine's personal life, showing her as a widow with three young daughters. She later married James A. Johnson, portrayed by Mahershala Ali in the film. Her personal story adds depth to her character and showcases the balance she maintained between her professional and personal responsibilities.

5. Key Moments

One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Katherine is asked to verify the calculations for John Glenn's mission. Glenn specifically requested that Katherine check the calculations before he embarked on his historic flight, demonstrating the trust and respect she had earned through her work.

6. Legacy

Katherine Goble Johnson's contributions to NASA and the Space Race were groundbreaking. The film "Hidden Figures" brought her story, along with the stories of Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson, to a wider audience, shedding light on the pivotal roles these women played in American history.

Taraji P. Henson's portrayal of Katherine Goble Johnson is a tribute to her intelligence, perseverance, and pioneering spirit. The film not only celebrates Katherine's achievements but also serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the pursuit of scientific progress.

2. Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan - Mathematician and supervisor

Octavia Spencer delivered a compelling performance as Dorothy Vaughan in Hidden Figures. Dorothy Vaughan was a brilliant mathematician and one of the first African American women to be promoted as a supervisor at NASA. In the film, Spencer portrays Vaughan's intelligence, leadership, and unwavering determination to break through racial and gender barriers. As a mathematician and computer programmer, Vaughan made significant contributions to the development of computer programming at NASA. She led a team of African American women mathematicians who played a critical role in various NASA projects, including the early space missions. Spencer's portrayal of Dorothy Vaughan was praised for its depth and authenticity, capturing the spirit and resilience of the real-life pioneer. The film showcases how Vaughan's leadership and expertise were instrumental in the success of NASA's missions and in paving the way for future generations of women in STEM fields. Taraji P. Henson as Katherine Goble Johnson, appreciates Octavia Spencer's portrayal of Dorothy Vaughan. Hidden Figures is a powerful reminder of the incredible contributions these women made to science and history.

1. Historical Background

Dorothy Vaughan was a mathematician who worked at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA. She started her career in the West Area Computing unit, a segregated section for African-American women who performed complex mathematical calculations. Despite the challenges of racial segregation and gender discrimination, Vaughan's expertise and leadership were undeniable.

2. Character Performance

1. Intelligence and Expertise

Spencer skillfully conveys Vaughan's mathematical brilliance and deep understanding of complex calculations. Her character's adeptness with numbers and early adoption of computer programming languages like FORTRAN are pivotal to the film's plot.

2. Leadership

Vaughan's transition from mathematician to supervisor is portrayed with grace and determination. Spencer captures her character's ability to lead and mentor a team of African-American women mathematicians, highlighting Vaughan's commitment to their professional development and advocacy for fair treatment.

3. Resilience and Determination

Throughout the film, Spencer's portrayal of Vaughan showcases her resilience in the face of systemic racism and sexism. Her character is depicted as a woman who refuses to be confined by the limitations imposed on her by society, fighting for both her own career advancement and the advancement of her colleagues.

4. Adaptability and Innovation

One of the key aspects of Vaughan's character is her ability to adapt to new technologies. Spencer effectively portrays Vaughan's foresight in recognizing the potential of electronic computers and her initiative in learning and teaching programming languages. This adaptability is crucial to NASA's success and underscores Vaughan's role as a pioneer in the field.

3. Key Scenes and Moments

Promotion to Supervisor

One of the film's most powerful moments is when Vaughan is officially recognized as a supervisor. Spencer's performance captures the emotional weight of this achievement, reflecting the years of hard work and perseverance that led to this milestone.

Mentorship and Empowerment

Throughout the film, Spencer's interactions with her team demonstrate Vaughan's dedication to uplifting others. She provides guidance, support, and encouragement, fostering a collaborative environment where her colleagues can thrive.

Confronting Discrimination

Spencer's portrayal does not shy away from the harsh realities of segregation. Vaughan's determination to fight for equal opportunities and her refusal to accept discrimination are central themes in the film, and Spencer's performance powerfully brings these struggles to life.

4. Impact and Legacy

Dorothy Vaughan's contributions to NASA and the field of mathematics are immense. Her legacy as a trailblazer who broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in STEM is celebrated in Hidden Figures. Spencer's portrayal of Vaughan brings this legacy to the forefront, reminding audiences of the profound impact one person can have on history.

In summary, Octavia Spencer's performance as Dorothy Vaughan is a nuanced and deeply moving tribute to a remarkable woman whose intellect, leadership, and resilience helped shape the course of space exploration and computing.

3. Janelle Monae as Mary Jackson - Mathematician and engineer

Janelle Monae portrayed Mary Jackson, a pioneering mathematician and engineer, in the film "Hidden Figures." The movie is based on the true story of three African American women Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson who worked at NASA and made significant contributions to the space race despite facing racial and gender discrimination. Mary Jackson, played by Monae, was NASA's first black female engineer. She worked tirelessly to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of women and minorities in STEM fields. The film highlights her journey, along with her colleagues, in overcoming obstacles and proving their intellectual prowess during a pivotal time in American history.

1. Mary Jackson: The Real-Life Inspiration

Mary Jackson, born in 1921 in Hampton, Virginia, was an exceptional mathematician and aerospace engineer. She earned her Bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics and Physical Science from Hampton University. After working several jobs, she joined the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA, in 1951.

2. Pioneering Engineer

Mary Jackson's journey at NASA began as a computer—an individual who performed complex calculations by hand. Her determination and intellect quickly set her apart. After working under Dorothy Vaughan in the segregated West Area Computing section, she was invited to work with engineer Kazimierz Czarnecki in the Supersonic Pressure Tunnel. Recognizing her potential, Czarnecki suggested that Jackson pursue an engineering position. However, this required additional courses.

3. Breaking Barriers

Undeterred by the challenges, Mary Jackson petitioned the city of Hampton to attend night classes at an all-white high school. This was a significant feat given the racial segregation of the time. She successfully completed her coursework, becoming NASA's first black female engineer in 1958.

4. Contributions to NASA

As an engineer, Mary Jackson contributed to research focused on the behaviour of the boundary layer of air around aircraft. She co-authored numerous technical papers and was instrumental in advancing knowledge in her field. Beyond her technical achievements, Jackson was a dedicated advocate for equal opportunities, mentoring and supporting the next generation of scientists and engineers.

5. Janelle Monae’s Performance

Janelle Monáe’s portrayal of Mary Jackson in "Hidden Figures" captures her intelligence, resilience, and unyielding spirit. Monae brings Jackson's determination and pioneering spirit to life on screen, showing her courage in the face of systemic discrimination and her pivotal role in NASA’s success during the space race. Through her performance, Monae honors Jackson's legacy, highlighting both her professional accomplishments and her personal struggles.

6. Impact of "Hidden Figures"

"Hidden Figures" not only showcases the incredible contributions of Mary Jackson but also shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of African American women in STEM fields. The film has inspired many and served as a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in all areas of society. Janelle Monáe's portrayal of Mary Jackson is a testament to the power of storytelling in bringing history to life and honouring the unsung heroes who have shaped our world.

Hidden film review

Hidden Figures is a brilliant movie about workplace inequality and the challenges that African American women had to overcome to succeed. The film needs to be praised for the dramatic events and speeches that are related to women of colour. However, the real events of Katherine Goble, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan were twisted to show how white men were fighting against inequality while in reality the women were still limited and could not enjoy the same rights as their colleagues. The film "Hidden Figures" is a powerful narrative that delves into the intersection of race and gender during the 1960s Space Race. It tells the true story of three African American women—Katherine Goble (later Johnson), Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who worked as mathematicians at NASA and played crucial roles in putting astronaut John Glenn into orbit.

The film highlights the challenges these women faced due to racial segregation and gender discrimination. It portrays their perseverance and intelligence, which allowed them to overcome these barriers and make significant contributions to the space program. The representation of these women as strong, capable, and intelligent challenges the stereotypical portrayals of black women in media, which often depict them in a dehumanizing manner. "Hidden Figures" also sheds light on the broader societal issues of the time, such as the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for gender equality. By focusing on the personal and professional struggles of these women, the film emphasizes the importance of representation and the impact it can have on societal perceptions of race and gender.

For example, in the film,

Katherine Goble (later Johnson) - The Calculation Room Scene

Katherine, brilliantly portrayed by Taraji P. Henson is assigned to work in the Space Task Group. Despite her obvious mathematical genius, she is initially met with scepticism and condescension. In one pivotal scene, Katherine is asked to check the calculations of Paul Stafford (Jim Parsons). When she successfully corrects the calculations, it is a moment of triumph that showcases her intellectual prowess. This scene challenges gender norms by positioning a black woman as a central figure in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Dorothy Vaughan - The IBM Computer Scene

Dorothy Vaughan, played by Octavia Spencer, learns about the new IBM computer being installed at NASA. Recognizing the potential threat to her job and the jobs of her team, she teaches herself and her colleagues programming skills. In one powerful scene, Dorothy single-handedly gets the IBM computer up and running, outperforming the male engineers. This scene underscores the importance of women taking proactive steps to secure their place in the workforce and highlights the intelligence and adaptability of women in STEM fields.

The Bathroom Scene

One of the most poignant scenes in the film is when Katherine, after being reprimanded by her boss Al Harrison (Kevin Costner) for taking long breaks, explains that she has to run half a mile to the only "colored" restroom available. This scene highlights the dual discrimination of race and gender that Katherine faces. Al's response—tearing down the "Colored Ladies Room" sign symbolizes a step towards equality and recognition of Katherine's worth as a professional, regardless of her race or gender.

The Final Launch Scene

In the climax of the film, Katherine is finally allowed into the control room to verify the crucial launch calculations. Her inclusion in this critical moment symbolizes the breaking down of both racial and gender barriers. It is a powerful acknowledgement of her invaluable contributions and an affirmation of her rightful place among her peers.

Overall, "Hidden Figures" does more than recount historical events; it uses these events to challenge and reshape societal perceptions of gender and race. The film's portrayal of strong, intelligent African American women in pivotal roles at NASA serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in all fields. By showcasing their struggles and triumphs, the film encourages viewers to re-evaluate and challenge the existing gender norms and racial stereotypes. "Hidden Figures" serves as an inspirational story that not only celebrates the achievements of these remarkable women but also encourages a re-evaluation of how gender and race are portrayed in media and society.