Hidden Figures is a 2016 American biographical drama film directed by Theodore Melfi, based on the non-fiction book by Margot Lee Shetterly.
The film tells the inspiring true story of three African-American women mathematicians—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who played crucial roles at NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Their work was pivotal in the success of the Mercury and Apollo missions, particularly in calculating the trajectory for John Glenn's historic orbital flight.
The narrative centers on Katherine Johnson, portrayed by Taraji P. Henson, who faces both racial and gender discrimination while working in the segregated West Area Computers division at NASA. Alongside her colleagues, Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe), Katherine navigates the challenges of a male-dominated workplace, where her contributions are often overlooked. The film highlights their struggles and triumphs as they break through barriers and prove their invaluable worth to the space program.
Released on December 25, 2016, in a limited capacity before expanding to a wider release on January 6, 2017, Hidden Figures received positive reviews from critics, who praised its performances, direction, and emotional depth. The film grossed over $236 million worldwide against a production budget of $25 million, making it one of the most profitable films of 2016. It also received three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.
The film's success lies not only in its compelling storytelling but also in its ability to shine a light on the overlooked contributions of African-American women in STEM fields during a pivotal moment in American history. Hidden Figures serves as both an inspiring tale of perseverance and a reminder of the ongoing struggles for equality and recognition in the workplace.