Review of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020) by Tvjerry — 04 Dec 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 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.
This review of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020) was written by Tvjerry on 04 Dec 2020.
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom has generally received positive reviews.
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