In our continuing coverage of Oscar-nominated films, guest reviewer rickyfilmreview has a look at Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, nominated for five Oscars including Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Production Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, and Best Costume Design.
“Now death? Death got some style. Death will kick your ass and make you wish you never been born. That’s how bad death is. But you can rule over life. Life ain’t nothing.”
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020) was quite an enjoyable watch. I don’t think it’s anything groundbreaking or magical, but it did certainly have heart. I found myself drawn towards the aesthetic and the vibe of the setting that this film-adapted-play was presented in, and I liked the detail that went into the production design.
The film’s story is straightforward but I could definitely identify the meaning and message behind the script. I could see two sides to this story, one being determination and optimism for the future, and the other being settling for the present and current situation. These two sides being represented by people with clear intentions makes for a clear watch with no way of misunderstanding the premise.
That being said, the film really didn’t put forth anything too different and it felt too much like a play at times, when its presentation should be clean and cohesive in film structure. It really was the acting that elevated this from a mediocre to an above average film.
Chadwick Boseman is electric and utterly terrific in his last role, and it was his beacon of hope and joy that brought forth a smile on my face in every scene he was in. It’s truly a sight to behold, and his monologues were played out so well. There was a playful childishness behind his eyes and I loved every line of his.
Viola Davis is intimidating and provocative with no intention of slowing down her career, with another nuclear performance.
The score was really engaging as well, and if you like old jazz, you’ll love this score; and if you don’t, you’ll probably still love the score.
At the end of the day, I don’t think this is a story about music, but a solid representation of being a person of colour and how it affects dreams, ambitions and passion. A very re-watchable film, mainly due to a powerful and strong performance by Chadwick Boseman, who definitely deserves the Oscar for this.
Available on Netflix.
Rating: 4/5
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