The best film of the year was just released on Netflix -- "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom." Written by theatrical poet August Wilson, the movie portrays real-life blues singer Ma Rainey. Ma, called "Mother of the Blues," was one of the first to record blues music, influencing a generation of singers.
What makes the film special are Wilson's writing which crackles with emotion and the leads' acting performances. Viola Davis does a convincing job as Ma and my favorite actor, Chadwick Boseman, is terrific as ambitious trumpeter Levee. Chadwick, who tragically died of cancer after making the film, has a string of incredible movies; "Get on Up" is the best. His work in this film is beyond Oscar-worthy: it'll be a crime if he doesn't win the award. There are scenes here that blow you away.
Do yourself a favor and see this. And "y'all just leave Levee alone about the white man."
Viola Davis is a wonderful actress, she's a great choice for this important role. I don't have Netflix but I'll watch this film when I can. Thank you for your recommendation.
ReplyDeleteThank's for the tip, I'll make sure I don't miss it, Viola is so amazing!
ReplyDeleteHappy Holidays,
S
One to look out for, I'm sure. I've always had lots of admiration for Ma Rainey, whom my Dad, a true jazz and blues fan, introduced me to. xxx
ReplyDeleteI'm impressed -- you're the first person I've met who knew who she was.
DeleteI've heard her name before- I think it must be in the weekly newsletter I get from the London Swing dance Society- Simon goes into the history and the key exponents of all the swing dance types which of course, include the Blues. However, I wouldn't have been able yo remember why I knew her name without this context. Viola Davis! What a gorgeous, musical name. Thsnks for the recommendation.
ReplyDeleteIt's on my Netflix list - thanks for the recommendation, Ally!
ReplyDeleteI do not have netflix but thank you for introducing me to a great star! :D Happy Holidays.
ReplyDeleteHappy holidays!
ReplyDeleteViola Davis is SO AMAZINGLY TALENTED! This one is on my must-see list!
ReplyDelete-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Yes, she is! Yes, you should!
DeleteThank you very much for this film recommendation, Ally. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it's on Netflix Canada as well. (We get a fraction of what the US version offers.)
ReplyDeleteMany a year ago now, Ma Rainey's music and life story crossed my path. A point from which has always stood out for me is the fact that she is a sizable percentage of the songs she sung. That was a rarity for any woman at the time, and virtually unheard for a female of colour.
Autumn Zenith 🧡 Witchcrafted Life
Right, and it's a major point of the film. Her struggle to own her own art.
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