Hidden Figures (2016) is an uplifting and inspiring biographical drama directed by Theodore Melfi and based on the non-fiction book by Margot Lee Shetterly. The film stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monรกe, with Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, and Mahershala Ali in supporting roles. It tells the untold story of three African American womenโKatherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jacksonโwhose work at NASA was instrumental in the United States’ success during the Space Race in the 1960s.
Plot Summary
Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement and the Cold War, the film introduces Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), a brilliant mathematician with a gift for analytical geometry. She works as a “computer” in NASA’s segregated West Area Computing unit, alongside her colleagues Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), a self-taught programmer and aspiring supervisor, and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monรกe), an ambitious mathematician and engineer.
The three women face systemic racism and gender discrimination at work and in society. Despite these barriers, their determination and talent shine through. Katherine is assigned to the Space Task Group, led by the demanding Al Harrison (Kevin Costner). She becomes integral to NASAโs efforts to calculate launch and reentry trajectories for astronaut John Glenn’s historic orbital flight. Katherineโs mathematical genius not only helps NASA solve complex problems but also earns her reluctant respect from her peers.
Meanwhile, Dorothy learns the IBM computers that NASA is implementing and becomes a pioneer in programming, training herself and her team to operate the new machines. Her foresight and leadership eventually lead to her recognition as a supervisor. Mary pursues her dream of becoming an engineer, overcoming legal obstacles to attend an all-white high school and earn her qualifications.
The film climaxes with the successful launch and safe return of John Glenn, a mission made possible by Katherineโs precise calculations. The success cements the importance of their contributions and marks a turning point for greater inclusion in NASA.
Hidden Figures is a story of perseverance, intelligence, and breaking barriers. It highlights the challenges of racism and sexism faced by the protagonists and their unwavering commitment to excellence despite systemic oppression. The film underscores the importance of teamwork, diversity, and equality in achieving groundbreaking milestones.
The title, โHidden Figures,โ reflects both the mathematical calculations that made space exploration possible and the overlooked contributions of the women who performed them. The film also explores the broader societal struggle for civil rights, drawing parallels between personal aspirations and collective progress.
Hidden Figures was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $235 million worldwide against a $25 million budget. It received widespread acclaim for its performances, storytelling, and historical significance. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actress for Octavia Spencer.
Audiences and critics praised the film for bringing the often-overlooked contributions of women of color to the forefront, celebrating their vital role in one of history’s greatest scientific achievements. It remains a cultural milestone for its powerful message and inspirational legacy.