Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020)

For Chadwick- rest in power, king. <3

Despite its relatively short run-time (as you can see, I have been seeing mostly Indian movies for a year, so I consider anything less than 2 hours "short" now), it felt long- and for the first time that I can think of, it's not a bad thing since the reason it felt long is because things just don't seem to have changed since the time period this movie is set in. I am no expert in race relations in USA, but after years of consuming (on and off) American pop culture, I know a thing or two about the entertainment industry's relation with its African-American artists. And that's why this movie hit so hard- it could easily have been adapted into a contemporary setting and the grim reality of it all would still be the same. 

The brilliant performances by all the actors, but especially Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, reinforce the film's message- it's hard to be a coloured person in America, and the negotiations you have to make with your surroundings on account of being black just never end. The dialogues are also very well-written and hit you exactly where they need to hit you. I found it very easy to sink into the film and its people and their stories, and because of the incredible direction, I actually felt like I was part of the proceedings. The conversational style of dialogue never felt forced, and added to my feeling that I was right there. And again, I must mention just how amazing Ms. Davis and Mr. Boseman were. They stole every scene they were in, and together, they were nothing short of dynamite. You can't miss this movie if you are fan of/ interested in either of them. 

In conclusion, I think it's time I properly get into the blues after years of listening to stuff here and there. And also after years of being blue myself. Yes, it was absolutely necessary for me to make this pun.