The film Hidden Figures, from 20th Century Fox and CE Productions, is a feel-good comedy-drama with talented actors and an encapsulating vision of the 1960’s.

Directed by Theodore Melfi, Hidden Figures offers a warm, enjoyable biopic with truly amazing performances.

Surrounding three women of color working at NASA during the Space Race and segregation, the film focuses on overcoming odds through optimism and hard work.

The inspirational film presents a view of the sociopolitical climate during the time, consistently demonstrating the blatant racism of the age, the fight for integration and the Cold War.

Melfi’s subtle periodization is very well done, showing a more personal and humanizing side of the 60’s that may have been forgotten.

The audience truly sees a well-rounded presentation of the time period, yet the film remains focused and centered around the characters and plot.

While the plot felt a bit predictable, this is tolerable due to the strong performances in the blockbuster.

Melfi immediately begins characterization as the film begins with a scene solely composed of the three main characters, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughn and Katherine Johnson, played by Janelle Monáe, Octavia Spencer and Taraji P. Henderson respectively.

The audience is immediately drawn towards the characters, and Melfi does an amazing job of forming a connection between the viewer and the screen.

Monáe’s performance felt most memorable, yet with the witty dialogue and sharp humor, each character felt personal and intriguing.

In addition, the star-studded cast also saw supporting roles from Kevin Costner, Jim Parsons and Kirsten Dunst. Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge and Glen Powell also had notable performances.

A solid pace was kept throughout, with well-paced scenes, speeding up and slowing down as necessary, and with a great soundtrack to match.

Overall, the story Hidden Figures tells is one of bravery and power, as well as success and love in the face of hatred and systematic racism.