𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 (𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟔)

Hidden Figures (2016)

Hidden Figures is a 2016 biographical film based on the book of the same name by Margot Lee Shetterly. The film tells the story of three African-American mathematicians—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who made significant contributions to NASA in the 1960s, helping the United States make major advancements in the space race against the Soviet Union. Despite their exceptional talents, they faced racial and gender discrimination in a society filled with prejudice. The film not only portrays their incredible achievements but also serves as an inspiring story of perseverance, determination, and self-empowerment.

Katherine Johnson, the central figure of the film, is a math genius working at NASA’s Langley Research Center. She is assigned to the Space Task Group to perform complex orbital trajectory calculations. However, Katherine constantly faces discrimination for being both a woman and African-American. She is forced to walk long distances to use a restroom designated for Black employees and is excluded from crucial NASA meetings. Despite these obstacles, her intelligence and persistence gradually earn her respect. At a critical moment, astronaut John Glenn personally requests Katherine to verify all calculations before his historic mission, proving that she is indispensable in America’s space race.

Dorothy Vaughan is an intelligent woman with natural leadership abilities, yet she is denied official recognition due to racial discrimination. She manages a group of Black women at NASA but is not given the formal title of supervisor. When she notices that NASA is transitioning to using IBM computers, Dorothy takes the initiative to learn programming and teaches her colleagues as well. Thanks to her foresight, she ensures her team’s continued employment despite the technological shift. Eventually, her efforts pay off, and she becomes the first African-American woman promoted to a supervisory position at NASA, paving the way for future generations.

Mary Jackson is a talented engineer but is hindered by segregation laws that prevent her from enrolling in the necessary courses to become an official engineer. Instead of accepting defeat, she decides to fight for her right to education. She petitions the court and successfully gains permission to attend a whites-only school, ultimately becoming NASA’s first African-American female engineer. Her story is a testament to courage, perseverance, and the determination to break societal barriers.

The film not only focuses on the struggles of the three main characters but also provides a historical backdrop of 1960s America. During that time, racial segregation was still deeply ingrained in society, with laws separating Black and white individuals—even talented professionals like Katherine, Dorothy, and Mary were not treated equally. Nevertheless, they overcame these prejudices, proved their capabilities, and played a crucial role in NASA’s success in launching humans into space.

By blending history, science, and human resilience, Hidden Figures is not just a story about space exploration but also a powerful message about equality, justice, and the unbreakable spirit of individuals. The film conveys the idea that talent is not defined by race or gender, and those who dare to fight for what is right can make a lasting impact. Hidden Figures received widespread critical acclaim and became one of the most meaningful films celebrating the contributions of unsung heroes who changed history.