Fences

Fences is a soul-stirring drama based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by legendary American playwright August Wilson. Released in 2016, this cinematic masterpiece is directed by none other than Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington, who also delivers a powerful performance in the leading role. Acting alongside him is Oscar-winner Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson and other accomplished actors who remarkably bring the characters to life.

Set in a working-class African-American community in 1950s Pittsburgh, the movie centers on the life of Troy Maxson, portrayed by Denzel Washington. Troy is a garbage collector who, back in his prime, dreamt of becoming a professional baseball player. However, the barriers of racial segregation in the professional sports leagues thwarted Troy's dreams of playing in the Major League Baseball. This heart-wrenching tale of broken dreams is not just about Troy's personal ordeal but profoundly mirrors the struggles and obstacles faced by the African-American community during the era of racial segregation.

Troy Maxson, now middle-aged, embarks on his life journey while carrying his regrets and sense of failure. Hardened by life, Troy is a complex character who is often harsh and bitter. Despite this, there's an undeniable charisma that Washington lends to Troy, making him flawed yet intriguing. The movie smartly uses the backdrop of a literal and figurative fence that Troy is building throughout the film, symbolizing boundaries, protection, and emotional walls that he has around his heart.

Opposite Washington is Viola Davis as Rose Maxson, Troy's patient and understanding wife. Davis delivers an Oscar-winning performance of an incredibly supportive woman who quietly endures her husband's imperfections and erratic behavior. Her portrayal of a devoted wife and mother, trying to hold the family together amidst turbulence, allows the audience to grasp the depth of the character. It's a portrayal that strikes a chord for anyone who understands the self-effacing sacrifices borne by women, particularly Black women, during this period.

An integral part of the storyline is the strained relationship between Troy and his sons. His older son, Lyons (Russell Hornsby), is a musician who Troy criticizes for not having a steady job. Cory (Jovan Adepo), Troy's younger son from his marriage to Rose, faces Troy's objection to his dream of becoming a football player—another powerful narrative that stems from Troy's personal disappointment and bitterness.

Supporting Washington and Davis is Stephen McKinley Henderson, who plays Troy's devoted friend Jim Bono. Henderson's portrayal of Bono beautifully captures the essence of friendship, loyalty, and honesty, contributing to the layered narrative with grace and finesse.

Fences highlights the pivotal crossroads in American history as it was experiencing profound racial conflict and changing traditional gender roles. It is a compelling story of dreams, disillusionment, and the universal theme of family, evoking a broad spectrum of emotions from viewers.

One of the most exceptional aspects of the movie is its honest dialogue. The screenplay, which August Wilson wrote himself before his demise in 2005, captures the beauty, rhythm, richness, and challenges inherent to African-American life. It offers a portrayal that is both uniquely individual and universally human.

The finesse with which Antonelli's cinematography and Hughes' production design capture the post-World War II era Pittsburgh landscape adds further authenticity to the narrative. The painstaking attention to detail in the sets, costumes, and locations brings the audience back in time, immersing them in the socio-political climate of the period.

Fences is a rare blend of raw emotion and realism, embodied beautifully by the performances of the cast and helmed with Washington's sharp and insightful direction. This film resonates deeply with viewers as it masterfully unfolds a timeless narrative about the human condition, unfulfilled dreams, familial bonds, personal demons, and the relentless pursuit of freedom and dignity against all odds.

In conclusion, Fences is a powerful, engrossing drama that showcases the extraordinary talent of its cast and director while deftly addressing themes of race, family, and aspirations in a bygone era. Enjoy a compelling odyssey into the heart of American history and the human soul with Fences.