The Best Book-to-Movie Adaptations That Are Worth Reading and Watching
Absent Figures
Hidden Figures
Theodore Melfi's remarkable film "Hidden Figures" is adapted from Margot Lee Shetterly's groundbreaking novel of the same name, which tells the true stories of three brilliant African American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who made significant contributions to NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Set during a time of racial segregation and gender inequality, the film highlights the incredible challenges these women faced while working to achieve their dreams and support the nation’s ambitions in space exploration.
Katherine Johnson, portrayed by Taraji P. Henson, played a crucial role in calculating flight trajectories, while Dorothy Vaughan, played by Octavia Spencer, became a pioneering computer programmer. Mary Jackson, portrayed by Janelle Monáe, fought for her right to become an engineer. Their inspiring journeys are not only a testament to their intelligence and determination but also reflect the broader struggles for civil rights and gender equality that were unfolding in America during the 1960s.
In conclusion, "Hidden Figures" is a powerful narrative that deserves both readership and viewership. It serves as an essential reminder of the contributions of those who have been historically overlooked and emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in all fields, particularly in STEM. By bringing these incredible stories to light, the film encourages audiences to recognize the vital roles that women and minorities have played in shaping history and inspires future generations to pursue their aspirations, regardless of societal barriers.
