Hidden Figures

By Joyce & Don Fowler
Posted 1/12/17

Many of us remember the excitement over the Space Race back in the '60s, but few of us knew about or remember the amazing story of three black female computers" who played a major role in"

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Hidden Figures

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HIDDEN FIGURES

* * * * ½

(Amazing true story about NASA women)

Many of us remember the excitement over the Space Race back in the ’60s, but few of us knew about or remember the amazing story of three black female "computers" who played a major role in America's successful space program. "Hidden Figures" tells the story in an exciting, inspiring, compassionate, sometimes humorous, and often shameful way. It is hard to accept the blatant prejudice toward not only African Americans but women in general in the ’60s, especially in Virginia and particularly at NASA.

The movie tracks three brilliant black women who were part of the Colored Computers, and their contribution to the success of the program, especially John Glenn's 1962 orbit.

Taraji P. Henson plays Katherine Johnson, a woman who wants to be an engineer but can't because people of her race are not allowed in the all-white school that teaches the courses she needs. Janelle Monae plays Mary Jackson, truly an inspirational figure for her persistence in helping to open doors for women, especially black women. Mary must walk a half mile to the colored ladies room, has her own coffee pot, and sits in a room filled with white-shirted white men who act as if she doesn't exist. Octavia Spencer plays Dorothy Vaughan, a strong woman who supervises the "colored computers" but is refused the title or pay grade for her work.

They are all under the wing of a well meaning but naive, uniformed boss (Kevin Costner), who slowly comes to recognize their worth, both as human beings and as brilliant minds. Kirsten Dunst and Jim Parsons both are good in unattractive roles as roadblocks in the way of the "Hidden Figures" being recognized for their contributions to the program.

You will shudder at the way they are treated, cheer at their stamina and faith, and watch in amazement as America struggles to catch up with Russia.

"Hidden Figures" (clever title) is a movie that adults who lived through that period of American race and space history must see. It is equally embarrassing and uplifting.

Rated PG, with some minor profanity. Don't let that stop you from bringing your children or encouraging your teenagers to see this great movie. 

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