“Fences 2016” is a powerful and emotional film about a complex family dynamic. The story revolves around Troy Maxson, a former baseball player turned garbage collector, and his relationships with his wife, son, and friends. The fence in Maxson’s backyard serves as a metaphor for the walls he has created in his life to protect himself from hurt. Maxson’s inability to break down these walls leads to tension and conflict within his family. As the story unfolds, secrets are revealed that challenge the characters’ perceptions of themselves and each other. Ultimately, “Fences 2016” is an exploration of the human experience and the difficulties we face in reconciling our past with our present.
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Review
“Good fences make good neighbors” is a quote that promotes the idea of maintaining a healthy and respectful relationship with those around us. It’s also the inspiration behind the Oscar-nominated film, “Fences,” based on August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play.
Denzel Washington directs and stars in this powerful and emotional drama that explores the complexities of family, race, and identity. Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, “Fences” tells the story of Troy Maxson (Washington), a former baseball player who now works as a sanitation worker to support his family.
Troy’s relationship with his wife, Rose (Viola Davis), his sons, and his best friend Bono (Stephen McKinley Henderson) is challenged by his troubled past and tense present. He struggles to reconcile his dreams of becoming a professional athlete with the realities of racism and discrimination.
The film is an adaptation of Wilson’s play, which was originally staged on Broadway in 1987. It was praised for its raw emotion, powerful performances, and lyrical dialogue. Wilson wrote ten plays that focused on the African American experience in America throughout different decades of the twentieth century. This inspired Washington to bring “Fences” to life on screen and celebrate Wilson’s legacy.
One of the most remarkable things about “Fences” is its exceptional acting performances. Denzel Washington brings an intense depth to Troy Maxson’s character as he navigates through familial and societal pressures. His portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
Viola Davis won her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Rose Maxson – one that was both heart-wrenching and admirable. Davis’ facial expressions alone convey complex emotions that words often fail to describe; she carries the weight of every hurtful word or action with grace.
The rest of the cast also delivered top-notch performances. Stephen McKinley Henderson as Bono provides much-needed comic relief and an ear for Troy’s troubles. Troy’s sons, Lyons (Russell Hornsby) and Cory (Jovan Adepo), give glimpses into the generational divide within the Maxson family.
“Fences” also explores themes of prejudice, particularly in sports. In one scene, Troy shares his disappointments with his son Cory, who has hopes of playing college football. He expresses how black people are not welcomed or given a fair chance in the industry. This sentiment echoed many incidents throughout American history where Black people were denied opportunities due to systemic racism.
The film is an excellent example of how a powerful story can be elevated by a great musical score. Marcelo Zarvos’ music is understated yet impactful; it complements the emotional weight of the scenes without distracting from them.
“Fences” received much critical acclaim upon its release and was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. The film ultimately won the award for Best Supporting Actress, which Davis dedicated to Wilson’s life’s work.
The cinematography of “Fences” was another highlight of the film. Charlotte Bruus Christensen’s camera work provides a new perspective on Wilson’s story as it captures Pittsburgh’s urban intricacy and conveys mood through lighting and framing.
“Fences” is a cinematic masterpiece that will leave viewers thinking long after it ends. The dialogue may be dense at times, but its themes are universal and speak to every human experience: love, belongingness, ambition, race and identity issues – all portrayed in this tale of family relationships that will leave you breathless with each emotional exchange.
Challenging in both structure and content, “Fences” remains an essential piece of cinema alongside works like “Do The Right Thing,” “Moonlight,” or “If Beale Street Could Talk.” Its powerful performances remind us why movies have been storytelling tools from time immemorial.
In conclusion, “Fences” is a must-watch for anyone who loves great storytelling with powerful performances and deep emotional impact. Washington delivers an honest and heartbreaking portrayal of a man struggling to reconcile his dreams with reality while also fighting the forces of societal prejudice. Davis shines as his wife, adding grace and depth to the story. The film is grounded in authenticity and speaks to the human experience like no other movie in recent times. So grab your popcorn, find a good spot on your couch, and let this film take you on an emotional journey that will leave you changed forever.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 139
- Release : 2016-12-16
- Genre : Drama
- Cast : Denzel Washington as Troy Maxson, Viola Davis as Rose Maxson, Stephen McKinley Henderson as Jim Bono, Jovan Adepo as Cory Maxson, Russell Hornsby as Lyons Maxson
- Crew : Victoria Thomas as Casting, Scott Rudin as Producer, Denzel Washington as Director, Denzel Washington as Producer, David Gropman as Production Design
- Popularity 21.792
- Budget : $24,000,000
- Revenue : $64,414,761
- Company : Paramount, Scott Rudin Productions, MACRO
- Summary : In 1950s Pittsburgh, a frustrated African-American father struggles with the constraints of poverty, racism, and his own inner demons as he tries to raise a family.
- Tagline : Some people build fences to keep people out, and other people build fences to keep people in.
