Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Netflix | Release Date: November 25, 2020
6.7
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 174 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
113
Mixed:
36
Negative:
25
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8
TVJerryDec 4, 2020
Ma Rainey was considered “Mother of the Blues” and this film is a fictionalized account of a 1927 recording session based on the play by August Wilson. This not a musical or even a narrative. It’s more about the characters and theirMa Rainey was considered “Mother of the Blues” and this film is a fictionalized account of a 1927 recording session based on the play by August Wilson. This not a musical or even a narrative. It’s more about the characters and their conflicts. Viola Davis (in lots of makeup and a fat suit) embodies Ma with intimating gusto. The biggest clash comes from her rambunctious trumpeter (Chadwick Boseman in an electrifying final performance). Being that it’s taken from a Wilson play, you can expect extended monologues about traumatic event in pasts of the major players. Even with that, this is a compelling showcase for all of the actors, George C. Wolfe’s direction keeps it crisp and absorbing. Interesting fact: Davis won the Oscar for Best Supporting in 2017 for her role in Fences, another Wilson play adapted for the screen.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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7
moviemitch96Dec 19, 2020
In this film, adapted from August Wilson's 1982 play of the same name, Viola Davis stars as eccentric and famed blues singer Gertrude 'Ma' Rainey, who finds herself collaborating with a small jazz band in 1920s Chicago. The story is prettyIn this film, adapted from August Wilson's 1982 play of the same name, Viola Davis stars as eccentric and famed blues singer Gertrude 'Ma' Rainey, who finds herself collaborating with a small jazz band in 1920s Chicago. The story is pretty straightforward and simple enough, and because it was adapted from a play, it definitely felt very limited in this regard (much like Wilson's other play-turned-film 'Fences' from 4 years ago that also starred Davis.) In other words, it felt a little too much like I was watching a play instead of a film the whole time, which isn't to say that it detracted from the film's quality, as the set pieces and atmosphere did a fine job of taking me back to the roaring 20s. The real draw here, however, is the performances. Viola Davis is in top form her as the titular Ma Rainey, as she acts and sings her heart out like nobody's business. We're also treated to arguably a career-best (and sadly final) performance from the late, great 'Black Panther' star Chadwick Boseman, who will charm the pants off of you in some scenes, but touch and stir your soul in many others. Both stars are very much worthy of awards consideration this year! Storywise, like I said, it feels pretty straightforward, and the stakes are never especially high, but it makes for a smooth, sleek, and fun watch overall. Just come for the fantastic performances and stay for some great fun and music and you won't be disappointed.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
HerickDienerDec 18, 2020
"Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" é um filme com problemas, mas que são diluídos pelas ótimas intepretações de Viola Davis e Chadwick Boseman (para ser sincero, todo o elenco faz um belo trabalho). Porém, eu realmente estava mais interessado na"Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" é um filme com problemas, mas que são diluídos pelas ótimas intepretações de Viola Davis e Chadwick Boseman (para ser sincero, todo o elenco faz um belo trabalho). Porém, eu realmente estava mais interessado na história de Ma Rainey, interrompida constantemente pelos dilemas do personagem Levee Green, apesar do título do longa. Além disso, pelo fato de ser uma adaptação do teatro, o roteiro conta com diálogos super longos, o que faz você se sentir assistindo a uma peça ao invés de um filme, gerando uma opinião pessoal negativa ou positiva do espectador. No meu caso, os longos diálogos de Levee e seus companheiros fizeram a narrativa de Ma Rainey ficar mais apagada ainda, causando um desequilíbrio no filme. Mas, no fim das contas, é um privilégio poder ver Viola sendo um monstro em cena e o eterno Chadwick em seu último filme.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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8
mrmonsterDec 18, 2020
An excellent film, and an excellent sendoff for Chadwick Boseman. I certainly hope he gets an Oscar nomination for his final role.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
joelgreenbergDec 20, 2020
yes, we know the film is adapted from wilson's play of the same name. still, that doesn't prevent us from entering this world wholly willing to accept its reality. apart from wolfe's occasional 'assistance', as he uses images to punctuate hisyes, we know the film is adapted from wilson's play of the same name. still, that doesn't prevent us from entering this world wholly willing to accept its reality. apart from wolfe's occasional 'assistance', as he uses images to punctuate his points, the film is an intimate and personal portrait of a time in history we need to experience however we can. boseman's performance is certain to garner awards, as indeed it should, and davis's power to hold the screen, and anyone who dares mess with her, is shattering at the same time that it is terrifying.
the

i've neither seen nor read the play, but i imagine the film's final, scene was created for the film - regardless, the final moment is the most chilling, sobering scene i've experienced in years.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
OlavLJan 16, 2021
A movie with glaring problems, held together by strong dialogue and even stronger performances. The absolute un-necessity of certain scenes and characters ultimately damages the film to such an extent that I really can't say I enjoyed theA movie with glaring problems, held together by strong dialogue and even stronger performances. The absolute un-necessity of certain scenes and characters ultimately damages the film to such an extent that I really can't say I enjoyed the duration of the film. But, with a heart wrenching conclusion, and the best male performance of the year from Chadwick Boseman, it is worth seeing, even if just to enjoy parts of what could have been an amazing whole.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
mattaluckDec 20, 2020
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is a play by August Wilson, which developed into a movie, with the stage play background of the script, the full on-and-on dialogue in the movie make you feel like it's still stagy, but cinematography deliver ofMa Rainey's Black Bottom is a play by August Wilson, which developed into a movie, with the stage play background of the script, the full on-and-on dialogue in the movie make you feel like it's still stagy, but cinematography deliver of 1920's Chicago. Chadwick Boseman's Levee raw and deep emotion telling his story about his mother and father, mother's gangrape, and his belief of god, Boseman is truly fantastic. Viola Davis is not convincing as a singer of Ma Rainey, she failed of the lip-syning performance, her mouth is not conving me she is singing, obviously there voice-over on the singing as Viola did sing a little bit, Viola did not understand the physiology of mouth when human is singing. Overall, her performance is great, sometimes she slip a little modern accent, but the sad thing is her character is underdevelopment, not enough back story, other than her explanation of how white men took advantages of her voice, almost all the time in diva mood. Colman Domingo, Glynn Turman and Michael Potts are all great supporting act.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
CriticCxDec 19, 2020
I thought it was a lovely movie, and a great performance by Viola Davis. You can tell that she embodies any character given to her, and that is why she is always amazing.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
CDiggoryJan 9, 2021
I thought the plot was really slow, but I don't have anything negative to say about the acting, ESPECIALLY from Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman. It was weird seeing the Black Panther I know and love speaking in a Southern accent. However,I thought the plot was really slow, but I don't have anything negative to say about the acting, ESPECIALLY from Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman. It was weird seeing the Black Panther I know and love speaking in a Southern accent. However, except for the emotional scenes, I didn't think there was very much story to it. Maybe that was the point, idk.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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10
alejandro970Dec 19, 2020
Did you get the blues? Based on real events, about the difficult path that would be to record a music album: the demands of the artist, the tensions between the musicians, the technical failures. Viola Davis is surprising, and it's nice toDid you get the blues? Based on real events, about the difficult path that would be to record a music album: the demands of the artist, the tensions between the musicians, the technical failures. Viola Davis is surprising, and it's nice to see Chadwick Boseman in his last performance. For those who like music.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
donksongsDec 20, 2020
Masterful. In that title role, Viola Davis has crafted an icon for the ages. If we are lucky, this cohort will give us a version of all of August Wilson's plays.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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9
lonewolfe420Dec 14, 2020
I am not sure how the general public will enjoy the film, but I simply marveled at it. The movie is based on a play, and you can clearly see the stage aspect of the film, but the director does a good job of keeping you engaged.

The acting aI am not sure how the general public will enjoy the film, but I simply marveled at it. The movie is based on a play, and you can clearly see the stage aspect of the film, but the director does a good job of keeping you engaged.

The acting a 10.
The story is a 10.
The music is a 10.

So why did I give it a 9?

Well, the movie is only 90 minutes, 3 acts, to be precise.

I wanted more singing from Ma, I wanted a musical, but got a film with music.

I wanted to learn more about Ma, but instead, I learned most about Levvy. This movie moved me, we are all leftovers, but won't know it until we realize we are left over.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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9
heltondrewDec 19, 2020
Sensational. An acting masterclass from the entire ensemble but especially Davis and the effervescent Boseman. What a role to mark your curtain call!
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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10
katezoeDec 20, 2020
The performances by Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman are spectacular. The underlying story is heartbreaking. Direction by George C. Wolf is wonderful. One of the best films of 2020.
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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10
NadiggDec 18, 2020
Give Viola Davis another Oscar and give Chadwick Boseman one too!!! Their performances were outstanding.
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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10
mohammadhoseinjDec 27, 2020
This movie touches your heart and has some of the most incredible actings of the year. Chadwick Boseman is the best actor of 2020 without hesitation and makes you laugh and makes you cry. What a beautiful, thoughtfully, poetic adaption. What a Film.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
RenffurDec 24, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" has quite a few undertones that could potentially slip past some viewers. However, I feel this film was beautifully crafted, Boseman's performance is amazing and Viola Davis acts Ma Rainey out in such a way that makes her genuinely likable. The film is mainly based on the play of the same name, so expect nothing more than a proper adaptation. It is mostly in one location but builds upon itself and its mutters very nicely in a short duration. "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" is thought-provoking, funny, and often emotional in this 90-minute film.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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10
KellysndDec 27, 2020
Um filme que tinha tudo para ser chato mas não é
um show de atuação que merece alguns oscars
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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10
LISOCHIKOTOSAFeb 23, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of my favorite films i watched in 2020. The performances from Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Glynn Turman and Taylour Paige are absolutely phenomenal. The film is relatively short but it cuts to the bone, exploring various themes and shedding light on America in the 1920's. Viola did such a great job portraying a very strong-willed, larger than life character.This was also Chadwick's last performance and he gave it his all. He did absolutely well in his role and he has done us proud. The costumes, lighting and setting were pretty good as well. I am still in awe.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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7
IanobJan 19, 2021
Great acting but play may have been cut down too much too allow it to reach its full emotional impact. A fitting epitaph to the talent of Chadwick Boseman who is exceptional.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
JalemanyJan 1, 2021
For me it did not completely worked as a film, but watching it is more than worth it given the awesomely impressive acting and performances. Don't miss the short documentary that complements the film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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10
DrBlahBlahApr 22, 2021
A better play than a film, it nonetheless has outstanding performances and reminds us of what we've lost in Boseman's death. RIP.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
ahmedaiman1999Jan 19, 2021
Like 2016's Fences, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a Viola Davis's starring film adaptation of an August Wilson play. From its limited setting (and by that I refer to the sets as well as the time) and the complete reliance on the dialogue in itsLike 2016's Fences, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a Viola Davis's starring film adaptation of an August Wilson play. From its limited setting (and by that I refer to the sets as well as the time) and the complete reliance on the dialogue in its storytelling approach, I could easily tell after a couple of minutes into the movie that it was originally a play—for better or worse.

Whilst the theatrical nature sometimes managed to render some scenes a musical flavour that proved refreshing and invigorating, they hindered the cinematic form—and in turn experience— and restrained the real power of August's work, preventing it from fully fleshing out. Consequently, we are only able to sense glimpses of the play's dramatic heft. Likewise, the importance of Wilson's message, which can be applied to social and political climate, is blatantly undermined by the movie's lack of cinematic feel. Granted, Davis and Boseman's characters here are formidable driving forces that redeemed many of these shortcomings. Ma Rainey and Levee, played by Davis and Boseman respectively, are like two opposites that share a common purpose. They have some kind of a tumultuous relationship due to a number of reasons, one of them is their different approaches of dealing with white capitalists. Viola Davis further cements her as an actress who is capable of topping herself over and over again. She makes it look easy to just disappear into many different characters or carry a movie with just her bona fide acting. And I believe that her performance as the eponymous character here should garner her an Oscar nod at the very least. That said, she definitely didn't carry this movie single-handedly as the late Chadwick Boseman delivered what might be the finest performance in his short yet diverse career. Interestingly, I believe that his theatrical performance here did actually bolster the emotional side of the story and, by and large, the viewing experience. This is a performance that's indisputably worthy to earn him a posthumous Oscar. (7/10)… Expand
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8
theredskyFeb 9, 2021
It’s poetic that Chadwick Boseman’s final performance is easily his best. Boseman’s performance is absolutely incredible and powerful. His character is so wonderfully developed and interesting and that’s due to the good screenplay. It isn’t aIt’s poetic that Chadwick Boseman’s final performance is easily his best. Boseman’s performance is absolutely incredible and powerful. His character is so wonderfully developed and interesting and that’s due to the good screenplay. It isn’t a great screenplay but it isn’t bad either. Boseman though, makes the script sound much much better. Viola Davis also does an incredible job too. Her performance and Boseman’s are easily some of my favorites of the entire year. All of the other performances are pretty good too but my issue is that some of these characters who are kinda interesting don’t get that much development. It doesn’t kill the movie in any way but I wish they had a little more development. I didn’t expect the movie to take place in one setting but it did and I thought it worked very well for the film. Keeping the story very self contained helps with the pacing and emotional weight to the film as you know something is going to happen but you don’t know when or where. The reason the film is so self contained is that it’s based on a play of the same name. If you know that it’s based on a play, then the self contained story makes sense. The film looks visually very nice and it has a good score and good sound editing. Viola Davis has an absolutely incredible voice and I really hope that that was actually Boseman on the trumpet. I would highly recommend checking this out as it’s up there on my favorites of the year.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
Stream2BigScreeJan 5, 2021
Happy New Year, Streamers! We're still in the thick of the winter movie season when all of the prestige flicks are crowding the cinemas and home theaters. Netflix has a full stable and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is one of its best. Picture it:Happy New Year, Streamers! We're still in the thick of the winter movie season when all of the prestige flicks are crowding the cinemas and home theaters. Netflix has a full stable and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is one of its best. Picture it: Chicago, 1927. A recording session. Tensions rise between Ma Rainey, her ambitious horn player and the white management determined to control the uncontrollable "Mother of the Blues". Based on Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson's play, George C. Wolfe directs this adaptation to great success.

Adapting a play can be a difficult transition since the medium of film allows for the expansion of the theatrical world. Ma Rainey's Black Bottom takes place in basically two rooms, so it can feel quite static and claustrophobic. Be that as it may, the themes and the language of the play is so dynamic that it's still captivating. The ensemble cast works very well together. Viola Davis is Ma Rainey with all the bravado and a physical transformation that enhances her every move. Chadwick Boseman plays the trumpeter in Ma's band, Levee. Levee aches to break out on his own and grab his own spotlight - literally and figuratively. Boseman's every line is infused with that passion. Glynn Turman, Colman Domingo, and Michael Potts round out the members of the band, who spar with Levee and attempt to make it through the recording session. The scenes of all of them together are worth the price of admission itself.

The most difficult part of watching Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is seeing this great performance given by Chadwick Boseman and knowing that it is the last bit of greatest captured for the actor in his prime. He has powerful monologues that are delivered with great depth of emotion. Boseman was giving it his all. Viola Davis is equally great. She walks in as Ma Rainey and takes over every scene. Davis may have less screen time than Boseman, but not a second, a movement, a look or line delivery is wasted. I've never seen Viola Davis like this and she turns it out.

Beyond the performances, the production does so well to bring this hot Chicago day in 1927 to life. The costumes look great. The make-up and body work on Viola Davis complete that picture of Ma as a woman in control. The design of the practice room and recording studio feel authentic. It all just comes together beautifully, and Wolfe directs this tense and potentially heavy film with such care allowing themes to come to life without feeling heavy-handed. At less than 90 minutes, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom moves at such a steady pace that it's easy to watch multiple times. My only knock is the ending being a bit random and seems to come out of nowhere.

Ultimately, I really loved Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. The entire ensemble is so good and anchored by award-worthy performances from the leads, Boseman and Davis. While the themes can be sobering, the film is not dour - it is lively and entertaining throughout. Take your big box of popcorn and let Ma Rainey's Black Bottom put you in a trance. You'll get that reference when you see the film.… Expand
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7
pedroassugeniDec 22, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A ideia do filme é incrível, mas a execução deixou a decepcionou; o foco principal não foi a mãe do blues e sim seu trompetista e os relatos pessoais dos membros da banda, perdendo a oportunidade de aprofundar na história da mãe, do ritmo blues e principalmente na caracterização incrível da Viola, as atuações e o trabalho de artes são ótimos, mas o resto deixou muito a desejar… Expand
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9
r96skFeb 28, 2021
Excellent!

'Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom' features great performances from Viola Davis (Ma) and Chadwick Boseman (Levee). Their characters aren't flawless, yet Davis and Boseman make them each a fascinating watch; the latter has oneExcellent!

'Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom' features great performances from Viola Davis (Ma) and Chadwick Boseman (Levee). Their characters aren't flawless, yet Davis and Boseman make them each a fascinating watch; the latter has one film-stealing scene. They both truly give their all. The other cast members, spearheaded by Colman Domingo (Cutler), are good as well.

The plot is riveting and very well told, with near perfect pacing and an astutely chosen run time; a 2hr film, for example, would've dragged. The end scene is a noteworthy one, also. There is a lot to enjoy here, even for a story filled with sadness and injustice. Highly recommend.… Expand
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8
Movie_FreakJan 28, 2021
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is a very good movie. It doesn't go the normal way other musicals do, but has a lot of unique style and focus on character conflict and emotions. The costumes are amazing, like the performances. Boseman and Davis giveMa Rainey's Black Bottom is a very good movie. It doesn't go the normal way other musicals do, but has a lot of unique style and focus on character conflict and emotions. The costumes are amazing, like the performances. Boseman and Davis give probably the best performances of their career, and the supporting cast like Turman and Domingo are both really good too. The editing, makeup and production design are superb, with some great sets and editing during the music recording scene. However, this films has some pacing issues, and gets quite boring after it's exciting premise. But other than that, it's a very sold film that also highlights important issues like racism. The character conflict is dealt with really well with some superb dialogues and banter. Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is one of the better films of 2020 and should get recognition at the Oscars for various major and technical categories.… Expand
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7
sbastosDec 20, 2020
Screenplay and direction in Ma Rainey´s Black Bottom have merit but cannot avoid the trap of the filmed play. Viola Davis is a must. Chadwick Boseman has three very good scenes, but as a whole, he is several tones above. Very irregular,Screenplay and direction in Ma Rainey´s Black Bottom have merit but cannot avoid the trap of the filmed play. Viola Davis is a must. Chadwick Boseman has three very good scenes, but as a whole, he is several tones above. Very irregular, typical case of overacting. Perhaps, as a consequence of a theater director and a relatively short career. Viola Davis on the other hand escapes this exaggerated theatrical tone. She deserves all the praise and leading acting awards, even with a small screen time. Glynn Turman´s work as the pianist must be highlighted. Unfortunately, under the commotion over Chadwick Boseman's premature death, Turman has been ignored. In short, a good movie, but with some restrictions. Above all, it, again, proves August Wilson's genius.… Expand
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10
Manny622Jan 2, 2021
An Oscar worthy film, Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman gives a groundbreaking performance in this film for the ages.
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7
megomikeJan 28, 2021
Set in Chicago in the 1920s, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom covers a recording session of the hits of the “Mother of the Blues” and the interpersonal conflicts between the band and its horn player, Levee, between Levee and Ma, and between Ma andSet in Chicago in the 1920s, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom covers a recording session of the hits of the “Mother of the Blues” and the interpersonal conflicts between the band and its horn player, Levee, between Levee and Ma, and between Ma and the white producers wringing her out for every last bit of profit while she’s hot. The language is brilliantly written by Wilson and Santiago-Hudson, but unfortunately the reliance on so much dialogue with little action is occasionally a disservice to the film. Like a Blues Band version of a David Mamet play, Ma Rainey is a movie that simply plays better as a live performance, and short the wonderful performances of its cast and a timely theme, does little to keep the viewer engaged for a short 94 minutes.… Expand
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9
IntranutFeb 16, 2021
A great cinematic rendering of August Wilson’s eponymous play. Everything that was changed made it even better. From winter to summer. The addition
of Ma’s car. The cuts and closeups. This is clearly a triumph.
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8
ChanekeCholoDec 13, 2021
This movie have great performances, directing, production and costume design, but I think is the favorite of nobody.
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9
Richard552Aug 11, 2022
You can tell that she embodies any character given to her, and that is why she is always amazing.$1 to buy a Netflix account, Google search: vtvshare
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8
CarlElmoreNov 24, 2022
Amazing final performance from the late great Chadwick Boseman and great performance from Viola Davis.
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