Hidden Figures is a biographical drama that debuted on January 6. Theodore Melfi directed the film, written by Melfi and Allison Schroeder. Hidden Figures is a true story based on the nonfiction book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly.

Hidden Figures depicts the untold stories of three female African American mathematicians at NASA and their contributions to the Space Race. The bulk of the story is set in the early 1960s, when NASA was working hard to put a man into Earth’s orbit.

The title of Hidden Figures is a clever one. Figures can mean several things, referring to people or numbers; in this case, it refers to both. Hidden Figures can refer to the three protagonists of the film or to the calculations NASA spent the entirety of the film working towards.

The cast includes Taraji P. Henson as Katherine Goble Johnson, Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan, Janelle Monáe as Mary Jackson, Kevin Costner as Al Harrison, Kirsten Dunst as Vivian Mitchell, Jim Parsons as Paul Stafford and Glen Powell as John Glenn.

The story is very compelling and simplistic, as the film is historically accurate and depicts segregation and racism well. It tells of the jobs and difficulties that the African American females endured. One cannot help but to form an emotional bond to the protagonists and root for them. This helps one dive into the story more.

The actors performed well, showcasing the not only racist and sexist attitudes of the day but also how the African American community’s determination to improve their lives. This well-showcased acting helps one get more attached to the film.

Dashes of light comedy were sprinkled throughout the film. Many of these were regular jokes about presented situations, pointing fun at the illogicality of the racist and sexist attitudes throughout the film. This made the characters more real and displayed their strength and resolve.

The film’s score was excellent. It accompanied the film well, driving home emotional scenes. The score was fitting but felt like music the characters would listen to.

The film has been nominated for several awards including three Oscars and two Golden Globes. The Oscars were for Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress for Octavia Spencer. The Golden Globes were Best Supporting Actress for Octavia Spencer and Best Original Score.

The film was great overall. Rotten Tomatoes’ critics gave it a 93 percent while the audience gave it 94 percent. IMDb gave it a 7/10 and Metacritic gave it a 74/100. The scores listed above show that both critics and fans can agree that the film was exceptional. Hidden Figures, a rated PG-13 film, is a must see film that one can enjoy and rewards the accomplishments of these women.