How many times have you heard a story that took place years, or perhaps centuries, before you were born and wondered, “How did I not know about this?”
When I heard about the true story behind the new film, Hidden Figures, I did not find myself in such a situation. Instead, my response went something like, “Huh. Figures.”
Three African-American women in the 1960s took on central roles in one of the greatest space races of all time in an era that reeked of racism and sexism. Their calculations and brains played significant roles in getting America in orbit, but only to have their names omitted from the history books?
Surprising or unsurprising, it’s a little disappointing on America’s part, to say the least.
But it is never too late to tell a memorable, historical, pivotal story.
Produced by Theodore Melfi and Pharrell Williams, among others, Hidden Figures chronicles the journey of Dorothy Vaughan, Katherine Johnson, and Mary Jackson, all gifted mathematicians and engineers, who against all odds triumphed in making a difference and leaving their mark on the world.
It obviously couldn’t have been a cakewalk for any of them, and perhaps there were points where frustration turned to despair and the desire to quit. We’ll never know their whole story for certain. But as onlookers, we can now see the product of such exceptional hard work.
In need of some inspiration as of late or perhaps just some perspective? Check out Hidden Figures, in theaters now as of December 25, 2016.
Prepare to be fired up.
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