Synopsis:
Chicago, 1927. A recording session. Tensions rise between Ma Rainey (Viola Davis), her ambitious horn player (Chadwick Boseman), and the white management determined to control the legendary “Mother of the Blues.” Based on Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson’s play.
Give people their roses while they are still here. While viewing this film it’s hard not to constantly look at Chadwick Boseman and think about how he was taken from us entirely too early. Fortunately, some of us recognized early on the light that he possessed and the talent he brought. However, regardless of when you stumbled upon a film or interview featuring Mr. Boseman, you knew that he was special. I say that to say, live your life to your fullest potential. If 2020 has taught us nothing else, it reinforced that life and humanity are fragile. Therefore, just as Chadwick’s character in this film does, believe in yourself, make the best of your situation, and chase your dreams despite how your naysayers feel. Also, don’t forget to show love to the people that you appreciate; don’t wait until it’s too late.
Ambition can get you to the moon but it can also make you sign your soul away. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a masterclass in acting. Based on the award-winning play of the same name, the film is entrancing, poignant, and full of life. There are some truly heart-wrenching and powerful scenes throughout the film. Two of them belong to Chadwick Boseman as he and Viola Davis deliver Oscar-worthy performances. Set in a time I’d never want to visit, the film displays the hardships and treatment that Black people had to endure along with vile music industry practices that still go on. Looking at its exterior, the film is about Blues music, but at its core, it’s about two strong personalities at the forefront of the changing landscape of music. The film itself is the blues and nothing is as it seems. It’s a David vs Goliath tale, however, there are two Davids but one of them thinks that they are Goliath. The film is well shot with phenomenally memorable scenes, the chemistry between the cast is amazing, and the production design and lingo transport you. The acting definitely overshadows the storyline but that’s no slight to the script, just praise to the cast. I highly enjoyed every moment of this film, that is until the ending which pissed me off but that’s what it was supposed to do. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a must-see. Its rewatchability is high.
Plot & Pace
When the blues band that backs Ma Rainey arrives at the studio, someone is missing. Not only is Ma not there yet but they are missing their horn player, Levee. Being the youngest and most talented of the band, Levee is ready to have a band of his own so he can play the music he loves. However, the ambition of the young man has caused a disruption to the status quo of the band, and Ma, Mother of the Blues will not stand for it. Eventually, tempers flare and the issue has to be addressed.
This film is highly entertaining and moves at a brisk pace. It was over before I knew it and I wanted more.
Characters & Chemistry
I think this cast might be my favorite of the year. The chemistry was top-notch; you’d think they had actually been friends for years. That said, if this is a masterclass, Chadwick Boseman as Levee and Viola Davis as Ma Rainey are the teachers. Boseman is electric and his performance is Oscar-worthy. Viola Davis delivers a commanding performance that lets us all know that Ma Rainey runs the show.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom premieres on Netflix on December 18th. Enjoy and stay safe.
Director: George C. Wolfe
Writers: Ruben Santiago-Hudson (Screenplay), August Wilson (play)
Rated: R
Runtime: 1h 34m
Rating: 4 out of 5
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
