Movie Hidden Figures
The movie Hidden Figures, released in 2016, tells the inspiring and lesser-known story of a group of African-American women who played vital roles in the early years of the NASA space program. Based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly, the movie shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of these talented women, breaking barriers of gender and race. “Hidden Figures” showcases the powerful stories of unsung heroes.
Key Takeaways:
- Hidden Figures highlights the untold stories of African-American women mathematicians at NASA during the Space Race.
- The movie overturns stereotypes and emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion.
- It showcases the critical roles these women played in key missions such as John Glenn’s orbit of the Earth.
- Hidden Figures emphasizes the impact of individual determination and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The Story Behind Hidden Figures
In the early 1960s, as tensions grew between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Space Race, NASA was looking for talented mathematicians to work on complex mathematical calculations. However, at the time, African-Americans, particularly women, faced immense discrimination and were often overlooked for such roles. These determined women defied societal expectations and fought for their rightful place in the NASA program.
The Remarkable Women of Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures focuses on the stories of three extraordinary women: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. These women overcame both racial and gender barriers to become vital members of the NASA team. Johnson’s mathematical expertise was instrumental in John Glenn’s successful orbit around the Earth, Vaughan’s leadership led to becoming NASA’s first African-American supervisor, and Jackson became NASA’s first African-American female engineer. Their achievements continue to inspire generations to come.
Data Points and Achievements
| Character | Role/Position | Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Katherine Johnson | Mathematician | Calculated the flight trajectory for the first human spaceflight by an American, Alan Shepard. |
| Dorothy Vaughan | Supervisor | Learned FORTRAN programming language and became NASA’s first African-American supervisor. |
| Mary Jackson | Engineer | Became NASA’s first African-American female engineer and later worked to improve diversity and inclusion within the space agency. |
The Impact of Hidden Figures
The release of Hidden Figures had a significant impact on popular culture and society as a whole. It shed light on the previously overlooked contributions of African-American women in the history of the space program. The movie sparked discussions on diversity and inclusion in STEM fields and inspired many young women and minorities to pursue careers in science and mathematics. Hidden Figures changed the narrative and encouraged the embrace of representation and equal opportunities for all.
Further Recognition and Awards
- The movie won numerous awards, including the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.
- Hidden Figures was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
- Octavia Spencer, who portrayed Dorothy Vaughan, was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Hidden Figures’ Enduring Message
Hidden Figures serves as a powerful reminder that our history is filled with countless untold stories of individuals who have made significant contributions to science and society. As we continue to uncover these hidden narratives, we must recognize the importance of celebrating diversity and providing equal opportunities for all. Hidden Figures demonstrates the strength and potential that lies within individuals, regardless of the limitations placed upon them by society.
| Aspect | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Oscar Nominations | 3 |
| Screen Actors Guild Awards | Won for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture |
| Octavia Spencer’s Nomination | Best Supporting Actress |
Hidden Figures is a remarkable movie that unveils the extraordinary contributions of African-American women at NASA during a crucial period in history. It celebrates their achievements, showcases their resilience, and challenges societal norms. By bringing their stories to the forefront, Hidden Figures inspires viewers to believe in their own potential and the power of diversity. Hidden Figures is a must-watch for anyone seeking to be inspired by true heroes of science and history.
Common Misconceptions
Misconception 1: It is Fictional
One common misconception about the movie Hidden Figures is that it is purely a work of fiction. However, this is not true. The movie is based on a non-fiction book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly, which explores the contributions of African-American women mathematicians at NASA during the space race. The characters and events depicted in the movie are based on real people and real events.
- The movie is based on a non-fiction book by Margot Lee Shetterly.
- The characters in the movie are based on real people.
- The events depicted in the movie are based on real events.
Misconception 2: It Exaggerates the Contributions of the Women
Another misconception about Hidden Figures is that it exaggerates the contributions of the women depicted in the movie. While the movie may take some creative liberties with the storytelling, the essential contributions made by these women to the space program are well-documented and widely recognized. Their work was crucial to the success of NASA’s missions, and the movie seeks to shed light on their invaluable contributions that were often overlooked or downplayed in history.
- The contributions made by the women to the space program are well-documented.
- The women’s work was crucial to the success of NASA’s missions.
- The movie aims to shed light on their overlooked contributions.
Misconception 3: It Represents the Full Diversity of the Women Involved
Some people may mistakenly believe that Hidden Figures represents the full diversity of the women involved in the space program. While the movie focuses on the stories of three African-American women, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, it is important to acknowledge that there were many other women of diverse backgrounds and ethnicities who also made significant contributions at NASA during that time. Hidden Figures is a powerful film, but it is vital to recognize the wider range of women involved in shaping NASA’s history.
- The movie focuses primarily on the stories of three African-American women.
- There were many other women of diverse backgrounds and ethnicities involved at NASA.
- Hidden Figures showcases a specific group of women, but there is a wider range of stories to be told.
Misconception 4: It Overlooks the Challenges Faced by the Women
One misconception about Hidden Figures is that it overlooks the challenges faced by the women working at NASA during the 1960s. While the movie highlights the brilliance and achievement of these women, it also depicts the racial and gender discrimination they experienced. It demonstrates the obstacles they had to overcome in a heavily segregated and male-dominated environment. By acknowledging both their successes and struggles, the film provides a more holistic portrayal of the women’s experiences.
- The movie depicts the racial and gender discrimination faced by the women.
- It highlights the obstacles they had to overcome in a segregated environment.
- Hidden Figures provides a more holistic portrayal of the women by acknowledging both their successes and struggles.
Misconception 5: It is Only Relevant to the Past
Some people may mistakenly believe that Hidden Figures is only relevant to the past and has no relevance in the present day. However, the movie’s themes of equality, perseverance, and the pursuit of knowledge are timeless and continue to resonate today. The women depicted in the film paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in the STEM fields, and their story serves as an inspiration for those facing similar challenges in science and technology.
- The movie’s themes of equality and perseverance are timeless.
- The women’s story serves as an inspiration for future generations in STEM fields.
- Hidden Figures is relevant in today’s world and continues to inspire those facing similar challenges.
Meet the Amazing Women of Hidden Figures
The movie Hidden Figures tells the incredible true story of three African-American women who played vital roles at NASA during the Space Race. These unsung heroes faced adversity and discrimination but made significant contributions to the successful launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable women and their achievements.
Katherine Johnson’s Groundbreaking Calculations
Katherine Johnson was a brilliant mathematician who worked as a “computer” at NASA. She performed complex calculations by hand, including trajectory analysis for the first human spaceflight. Her accuracy and attention to detail were vital in ensuring the safety and success of the missions. Johnson was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015.
Dorothy Vaughan’s Leadership and Intelligence
Dorothy Vaughan was a trailblazer who became NASA’s first African-American supervisor. She excelled in programming and played a key role in transitioning from human computers to electronic ones. Vaughan’s leadership and intelligence paved the way for generations of African-Americans in the field of computer science.
Mary Jackson’s Barrier-Breaking Engineering
Mary Jackson was a skilled engineer who made significant contributions to NASA’s aeronautical research. She faced the challenges of racial and gender discrimination but became the agency’s first African-American female engineer. Jackson’s relentless pursuit of her dreams and determination to overcome obstacles serve as an inspiration.
The Battle for Equality
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1941 | Mary Jackson graduates with a dual degree in math and physical science from Hampton Institute. |
| 1958 | Dorothy Vaughan becomes the first African-American female supervisor in the West Area Computers division. |
| 1961 | Katherine Johnson works as a “computer” for NASA’s early space missions, including the Freedom 7 mission. |
Behind the scenes, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson fought against discrimination and racial segregation, challenging the norms of the time. Their stories exemplify the resilience and determination of African-American women seeking equal opportunities in a male-dominated field.
The Launch of Friendship 7
The Friendship 7 mission was a historic moment in American spaceflight, with John Glenn becoming the first American to orbit the Earth. Here are some fascinating details about the mission and the role played by the women of Hidden Figures.
Essential Calculations for Friendship 7 Mission
Katherine Johnson‘s crucial calculations enabled the success of John Glenn’s Friendship 7 mission. Here are some of the vital figures:
| Time Points | Calculated Value |
|---|---|
| Liftoff | 2 minutes, 52 seconds |
| Booster Engine Cutoff | 4 minutes, 48 seconds |
| Orbit Insertion | 5 minutes, 48 seconds |
| Reentry | 4 hours, 35 minutes, 16 seconds |
These precise calculations ensured that John Glenn‘s spacecraft traveled the correct orbital path and returned safely to Earth.
Hidden Figures’ Impact on Space Exploration
Hidden Figures not only shed light on the remarkable contributions of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson but also brought attention to the larger issue of representation and inclusion within the space industry. Their perseverance and accomplishments opened doors and encouraged future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields, regardless of their race or gender. These extraordinary women paved the way for greater diversity and propelled humanity’s journey into the cosmos.
Hidden Figures Inspires Generations
The movie Hidden Figures captivated audiences worldwide with its powerful storytelling and portrayal of courage in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that hidden within history are countless untold stories of marginalized communities, waiting to be discovered and celebrated. Through their groundbreaking achievements, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson left an indelible mark on the world and inspired generations to reach for the stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the movie Hidden Figures about?
Hidden Figures is a biographical drama film that tells the untold true story of three brilliant African-American women who worked at NASA during the Space Race in the 1960s. The movie highlights their immense contributions to the space program and sheds light on their struggles with racial and gender discrimination.
Q: Who are the main characters in Hidden Figures?
The main characters in Hidden Figures are Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. These women are real-life mathematicians and engineers who played vital roles in the success of John Glenn’s orbit around Earth and the Apollo Space Program.
Q: Is Hidden Figures based on a true story?
Yes, Hidden Figures is based on the true story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. The movie adapts and portrays their experiences and accomplishments in a captivating manner.
Q: When was Hidden Figures released?
Hidden Figures was released in the United States on December 25, 2016.
Q: Who directed Hidden Figures?
Hidden Figures was directed by Theodore Melfi.
Q: Who are the lead actresses in Hidden Figures?
Taraji P. Henson plays the role of Katherine Johnson, Octavia Spencer portrays Dorothy Vaughan, and Janelle Monáe takes on the character of Mary Jackson.
Q: Has Hidden Figures won any awards?
Yes, Hidden Figures has received several accolades. It was nominated for three Academy Awards in 2017 and won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.
Q: Can I watch Hidden Figures online?
Yes, Hidden Figures is available to stream or download on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and iTunes.
Q: Are there any similar movies to Hidden Figures?
If you enjoyed Hidden Figures, you might also like other movies with inspiring true stories such as The Imitation Game, Apollo 13, and The Theory of Everything.
Q: Can I recommend Hidden Figures to younger audiences?
Hidden Figures is rated PG (Parental Guidance) in most countries, so it is generally suitable for younger audiences. However, it’s always recommended to review the content and themes of the movie to ensure it aligns with your preferences and the maturity of the viewers.
