Hidden Figures

Hidden Figures

Year: 2016

Runtime: 127 min

Language: English

Director: Theodore Melfi

BiographyDramaHistory

As the Cold War heats up, NASA's quest for space supremacy sparks a trailblazing journey of three African-American women - Dorothy Vaughn, Mary Jackson, and Katherine Johnson - who defy conventions to become the "human computers" behind some of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Hidden Figures (2016)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Hidden Figures (2016). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1961

The movie is set in 1961, a pivotal year during the Space Race when the United States was striving to catch up with the Soviet Union in space exploration. It was also a time marked by deep racial segregation and gender discrimination, particularly in the workplace. This backdrop intensifies the challenges faced by the characters as they navigate their roles within NASA.

Location

Langley Research Center, Hampton, Virginia

The Langley Research Center is one of NASA's primary centers for aerospace research and development, located in Hampton, Virginia. During the 1960s, it was a focal point for many groundbreaking projects related to human spaceflight, symbolizing the intersection of innovation and racial barriers. The setting serves as a backdrop for the remarkable accomplishments of African-American women at NASA during a critical era of American history.

🏢 Research Center 🌆 Virginia

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:11

Main Characters – Hidden Figures (2016)
Meet the key characters of Hidden Figures (2016), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Katherine Goble Johnson (Taraji P. Henson)

Katherine Goble Johnson is a brilliant mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of NASA's manned space missions. Despite facing systemic racism and sexism, she remains determined and resourceful, showcasing her exceptional analytical abilities. Katherine's journey from being underestimated to becoming a key figure in America's space program embodies struggle and triumph.

👩‍🏫 Mathematician ✨ Trailblazer

Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe)

Mary Jackson is an aspiring engineer known for her passion and determination. She faces significant hurdles due to her race and gender but demonstrates incredible resilience by advocating for her education. Mary's story is about breaking through barriers and paving the way for future generations of female engineers, making her a beacon of hope.

🔧 Engineer ⚖️ Advocate

Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer)

Dorothy Vaughan is a skilled mathematician and a natural leader who anticipates the changes in technology that threaten her job. She takes the initiative to learn programming and teaches her colleagues, ensuring their relevance in a technological revolution. Dorothy’s foresight and determination to uplift those around her exemplify her strong leadership qualities.

👩‍💻 Programmer 🌟 Leader

Al Harrison (Kevin Costner)

Al Harrison is a supportive and progressive leader at NASA who recognizes Katherine's talent and challenges the status quo by eliminating segregation within the workplace. His advocacy for Katherine represents a vital turning point in acknowledging the contributions of African-American women in science. His character is a reminder of the impact that allyship can have in the struggle for equality.

💼 Leader 🤝 Ally

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:11

Major Themes – Hidden Figures (2016)
Explore the central themes of Hidden Figures (2016), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

✊ Perseverance

The theme of perseverance is embodied by the central characters as they confront and overcome systemic barriers in a racially divided society. Their relentless pursuit of equality and recognition showcases the courage and resilience required to defy societal norms. Despite facing ongoing challenges, they remain dedicated to their work, leaving an indelible mark on history.

🚀 Inspiration

The film highlights the theme of inspiration, as Katherine and her colleagues serve as role models for young women and people of color. Their achievements in mathematics and engineering not only contributed to historic space missions but also inspired future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields. Their story reveals the importance of representation and breaking barriers.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:11

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