Hidden Figures
Overview
Hidden Figures is a 2016 biographical drama film directed by Theodore Melfi, based on the true story of three African American women mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Space Race. The film stars Taraji P. Henson as Katherine Johnson, a mathematician who calculated the trajectories for the Mercury and Apollo missions; Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan, a mathematician who became NASA's first African American supervisor; and Janelle Monáe as Mary Jackson, a mathematician who became NASA's first African American engineer. The film follows the women as they face racism and sexism at NASA, while making vital contributions to the space program. The film is a powerful, inspiring, and uplifting story about the triumph of talent and determination over prejudice. Hidden Figures was a massive critical and commercial success, earning over $236 million on a $25 million budget. It was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the space program and the unsung heroes who made it possible.
