I really enjoyed this adaptation, and a lot of August Wilson’s work. The cast was great, and felt believable as a family. I found John Washington’s performance to be a little over the top at moments, but his character is the “loudest in the room” archetype so I wasn’t too turned off. Great review!
I’m so glad you liked this film. Please add it to your physical media collection. We need to preserve our culture so we can pass it on to future generations.
This film is absolutely incredible! I immediately noticed the synchronicity of watching it at the right time. My thoughts went to the treasured memories of my great grandmother, and father, grandmother and father. I could just imagine how similar their lives must have been. The mention of Kansas City blew me away as that is where my family is from. The piano, which my great aunt had one as well, also the furnishings, the house all had an impact as I watched the talented actors give life to a time gone by. The prayer to the Ancestors went straight to my soul as I felt every word deeply. I know about that type of praying! I truly believe our ancestors are near and will help us if we ask. It is so important that we honor all that they went through to assure we survived. This immensely talented actress deserves every award there is and yes she should be cast as "Storm". There were so many lessons in this movie. I just hope people especially African Americans will understand the significance of the film and will simply "get it". Thank you to the writers, producers and actors for a job well done.
Having experienced both the play and the amazing 1995 film, I was excited about seeing what fresh directions this tale could be taken in. It did not disappoint! The film covers so many bases - the danger and constant struggle of living as a Black person in the south or north, the Great Migration, the intergenerational living arrangements to push the next generation forward, the presence/protection of our ancestors, the care & keeping of community, the deep and abiding love for family be they blood or chosen. I appreciated the 1995 version as well as this one. When the men spoke about being incarcerated at Parchman Prison "Farm", the rendering of prison song, "Berta, Berta", is heart wrenching, revealing the soul crushing nature of being Black and overrepresented in the carceral system. If you haven't heard Branford Marsalis' rendition or the outstanding version from the 1995 film, - it's worth a listen for anyone interested in traditional folk music. Thanks for the great review!
I saw the play on Broadway! Absolutely amazing. The musical number of Berta Berta was powerful!!! Gave me chills!!! Thanks for the great review. I can't wait to see the movie.
I am so looking forward to watching this movie. On my Netflix watch list. I hear it’s very good. Can’t wait. Just finished “Cross”.. now I don’t know what to do with myself. I’m sad. Eagerly awaiting season two. I’ll watch “Piano Lesson” to fill this void. You love everything .. I know it’s great then doggonit. Thank you ❤
Hey, kid! It's been a minute since I've caught one of your review videos. I've seen the film and am about to listen to your opinion, but when you asked if anybody was familiar with August Wilson, I felt compelled to chime in that I actually spent some very quality time with Mr. Wilson at a month-long theatre writer's retreat a few years before he passed away. He was lovely to me and took pictures with my children. We also talked about the future of black theatre and our culture. Some folks I knew who knew him before he got famous said that he had changed and not for the better, but I wonder if they understood that fame can and will change you. I think he became more protective of himself and the world around him as much as possible because that's what you use to write truth from; to create honestly from. After having conversations with him sitting on a shady front porch, watching my kids ride their bikes in the front yard of this huge retreat property, my spirit told me that he was a gentle soul. Sitting there, he even got the idea that he too could ride bikes with his little girl when he got home. A gentle soul.
Never thought about DD for Storm, but that's a perfect idea! Second to Angela Bassett which will forever be the biggest missed opportunity in X-Men casting! 🤦🏿♂️
Speaking of play adaptations to film, I haven't recovered from my youthful experience watching "A Raisin in the Sun". Despite having Sidney Portier, I remember it as a miserable experience. I haven't been able to re-watch that film again as an adult. I say all this, because the trailer for "Piano" reminds me of "Raisin". The star power in the "Piano Lesson" is great, but I'm not optimistic. Brandon, for this reason I would have never considered watching this film, but your glowing review might have me reconsider. ..............We'll see. Thanks Bruh! FBA B1!
@@jasminehill6312 If I barely got thru the original version, and remember it as a miserable viewing experience, what would incentivise me to check out another version hoping for the best? Same holds for the vile and disgusting "Color Purple" . Dont care how much nigros enjoyed the sangin' and dancin' in the new version. I'll pass on both of them for life.
I watched this around Christmas. It was not for me. However, Danielle is exceptional. The cinematography was beautiful and it's definitely a conversation starter. It started a great conversation about legacy, inheritence, and heirlooms with the people i watched it with.
Loved this adaptation. Malcolm is a truly talented director. There were some shots, (the bathtub transition to a flashback, the way he held the camera held on one person, while the other person spoke) that were very unique. It did feel sometimes like some of the supernatural racial trauma horror movies that have recently become popular. I think some of that took away from the "play feel" and it sometimes felt like two movies moving at two different paces. It came together well in the end and I hope this is not the last effort from Mac Washington.
I watched this and level of love for this went on the same ebbs and flows of the movie. Overall I love it, I appreciate it and I’d love to see more like this from us supported by us. More importantly I wanted to be admired by all and recognized by the world.
I saw the play on Broadway. Saw the Netflx film yesterday. I noticed they did cut out a few scenes that were featured in the play. The photography was fabulous, but the dialogue was a little repetitive to me. Samuel L Jackson's character was adamant on stage that Bernice wasn't ever gonna sell the piano. In the film, he changed his mind. 😮 weird ijs
Danielle Deadwyler is one of our beautiful FBA chocolate sistas that should be considered for some Marvel/DC project if they make a lane for a black female hero. My only issue is that ,she is 42. Not too old but , we need to start grooming some younger black FBA actors/actresses in their early prime years for some staying power.
@@valenciaphillips1684 FBA stands for Foundational Black Americans. Also known as the decendants of the U.S government designated Black American Freedmen. The term given to the non-immigrant, native indigenous Black people of the U.S who built the country from scratch. In a nutshell.
It was a boring snooze fest, the trailer made it look like an epic horror thriller but the movie was just a lot of sitting around the house talking & arguing, nothing happens until the last 20 mins and even that was a letdown. I was expecting this movie to be similar to "The Deliverance" a better version of that.
@markellg3141 I loved it. I also watched the 1997 version of this movie on TH-cam and loved it too. I've seen the play and read the book. It is ART!!! And August Wilson is a genius playwright. Not everyone gets that, and it's okay.
I finally saw the original it was excellent 5/5. The dialogue, characters and acting was much better. Everything flowed more naturally, it had charm and felt like an actual movie while this remake felt like a stage play trying to be a movie, really forced the dialogue and lacked personality.
Don’t care. Can we get any other play about black people that doesn’t come from August Wilson? Is there anybody else who is sick And tired of the same….never mind, I’m talking to the brain dead.
Fences was absolutely awful - Very traumatic and I did not like it at all. I don’t trust August Wilson films - I consider it trauma p*rn. I’m not a fan of the stories Hollywood decides to put on the screen. We are a beautiful people - full of joy and jokes and fun even in troubling times yet all of these films refuse to highlight that.
@chelseagalloway6913 The way different people see "Fences" may be generational. It deeply explored the broad based impact of systemic, intentional racism and how Black people have creatively survived despite efforts to decimate us, our families and communities. I wholeheartedly agree that we are a joyful, beautiful people!
I really enjoyed this adaptation, and a lot of August Wilson’s work. The cast was great, and felt believable as a family. I found John Washington’s performance to be a little over the top at moments, but his character is the “loudest in the room” archetype so I wasn’t too turned off. Great review!
I’m so glad you liked this film. Please add it to your physical media collection. We need to preserve our culture so we can pass it on to future generations.
This film is absolutely incredible! I immediately noticed the synchronicity of watching it at the right time. My thoughts went to the treasured memories of my great grandmother, and father, grandmother and father. I could just imagine how similar their lives must have been. The mention of Kansas City blew me away as that is where my family is from. The piano, which my great aunt had one as well, also the furnishings, the house all had an impact as I watched the talented actors give life to a time gone by. The prayer to the Ancestors went straight to my soul as I felt every word deeply. I know about that type of praying! I truly believe our ancestors are near and will help us if we ask. It is so important that we honor all that they went through to assure we survived. This immensely talented actress deserves every award there is and yes she should be cast as "Storm". There were so many lessons in this movie. I just hope people especially African Americans will understand the significance of the film and will simply "get it". Thank you to the writers, producers and actors for a job well done.
Ayee Brandon yoooo braids & beard looking clean af!! 🔥🔥 #nodiddy lol
Agreed! This film is phenomenal!!!!
Having experienced both the play and the amazing 1995 film, I was excited about seeing what fresh directions this tale could be taken in. It did not disappoint! The film covers so many bases - the danger and constant struggle of living as a Black person in the south or north, the Great Migration, the intergenerational living arrangements to push the next generation forward, the presence/protection of our ancestors, the care & keeping of community, the deep and abiding love for family be they blood or chosen. I appreciated the 1995 version as well as this one. When the men spoke about being incarcerated at Parchman Prison "Farm", the rendering of prison song, "Berta, Berta", is heart wrenching, revealing the soul crushing nature of being Black and overrepresented in the carceral system. If you haven't heard Branford Marsalis' rendition or the outstanding version from the 1995 film, - it's worth a listen for anyone interested in traditional folk music. Thanks for the great review!
I think the ancestors are proud❤
This film was like watching my grandpa when he was young, a great adaptation.
This version was not bad, but I liked the 1995 version better. Good review.
@@keptbygrace6221 Thank you 💪🏾💯
BKA, the CUT is fire my brother!
@@coreyedmonds815 Thank you!
Berta Berta made me feel like this is black american Haka. It felt like it was calling our collective soul and ancestors spirit
I saw the play on Broadway! Absolutely amazing. The musical number of Berta Berta was powerful!!! Gave me chills!!! Thanks for the great review. I can't wait to see the movie.
Another fantastic Review! I'm going to see the movie tonight... Love you!
The film was amazing. I loved the book (play) when I read it in high school . Seeing it on screen was chefs kiss
I loved everything about this movie. The actors, musical numbers, cinematography, all so well done👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Great review. I plan to view all of August Wilson’s plays.
@@lhrdst1 💪🏾💯
I am so looking forward to watching this movie. On my Netflix watch list. I hear it’s very good. Can’t wait. Just finished “Cross”.. now I don’t know what to do with myself. I’m sad. Eagerly awaiting season two. I’ll watch “Piano Lesson” to fill this void. You love everything .. I know it’s great then doggonit. Thank you ❤
This was an excellent adaptation of August Wilson's original. I was extremely impressed. Absolutely loved it!!
Hey, kid! It's been a minute since I've caught one of your review videos. I've seen the film and am about to listen to your opinion, but when you asked if anybody was familiar with August Wilson, I felt compelled to chime in that I actually spent some very quality time with Mr. Wilson at a month-long theatre writer's retreat a few years before he passed away. He was lovely to me and took pictures with my children. We also talked about the future of black theatre and our culture. Some folks I knew who knew him before he got famous said that he had changed and not for the better, but I wonder if they understood that fame can and will change you. I think he became more protective of himself and the world around him as much as possible because that's what you use to write truth from; to create honestly from. After having conversations with him sitting on a shady front porch, watching my kids ride their bikes in the front yard of this huge retreat property, my spirit told me that he was a gentle soul. Sitting there, he even got the idea that he too could ride bikes with his little girl when he got home. A gentle soul.
The movie was so good 👏🏾👏🏾
My favorite August Wilson play is “ Joe Tuner’s Come and Gone”
Joe Turner is my favorite too. But as demonstrated by his genius, all Wilson’s plays are great insights into African-American culture.
TPL is a great movie! I watched it twice. The singing gave me chills and I felt every word. The storytelling is amazing! Thanks for this review!
Can't wait to watch!!!!
Never thought about DD for Storm, but that's a perfect idea!
Second to Angela Bassett which will forever be the biggest missed opportunity in X-Men casting! 🤦🏿♂️
Ms. Wallace is the best, most versatile actress (black or white) that I have ever seen in my life! She is exceptional!
Speaking of play adaptations to film, I haven't recovered from my youthful experience watching "A Raisin in the Sun". Despite having Sidney Portier, I remember it as a miserable experience. I haven't been able to re-watch that film again as an adult. I say all this, because the trailer for "Piano" reminds me of "Raisin". The star power in the "Piano Lesson" is great, but I'm not optimistic. Brandon, for this reason I would have never considered watching this film, but your glowing review might have me reconsider. ..............We'll see. Thanks Bruh! FBA B1!
Did you watch the original film adaptation that came out in the 1990’s? It was dynamic!!
@@jasminehill6312 If I barely got thru the original version, and remember it as a miserable viewing experience, what would incentivise me to check out another version hoping for the best? Same holds for the vile and disgusting "Color Purple" . Dont care how much nigros enjoyed the sangin' and dancin' in the new version. I'll pass on both of them for life.
I watched this around Christmas. It was not for me. However, Danielle is exceptional. The cinematography was beautiful and it's definitely a conversation starter. It started a great conversation about legacy, inheritence, and heirlooms with the people i watched it with.
Loved this adaptation. Malcolm is a truly talented director. There were some shots, (the bathtub transition to a flashback, the way he held the camera held on one person, while the other person spoke) that were very unique. It did feel sometimes like some of the supernatural racial trauma horror movies that have recently become popular. I think some of that took away from the "play feel" and it sometimes felt like two movies moving at two different paces. It came together well in the end and I hope this is not the last effort from Mac Washington.
I watched this and level of love for this went on the same ebbs and flows of the movie. Overall I love it, I appreciate it and I’d love to see more like this from us supported by us.
More importantly I wanted to be admired by all and recognized by the world.
Samuel L. Jackson's scene explaining the origin of the piano and its importance is a Masterpiece.
Cool movie review!! Have you seen the 1995 version of this movie yet?
I liked your review; Yeah, the trailer hooked me however, I wasn’t disappointed with the overall movie
I saw the play on Broadway. Saw the Netflx film yesterday. I noticed they did cut out a few scenes that were featured in the play. The photography was fabulous, but the dialogue was a little repetitive to me. Samuel L Jackson's character was adamant on stage that Bernice wasn't ever gonna sell the piano. In the film, he changed his mind. 😮 weird ijs
I had to agree with you brother Amazing movie I had to watch it twice
Danielle Deadwyler is one of our beautiful FBA chocolate sistas that should be considered for some Marvel/DC project if they make a lane for a black female hero. My only issue is that ,she is 42. Not too old but , we need to start grooming some younger black FBA actors/actresses in their early prime years for some staying power.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with her age, and I highly doubt we’d be making this comment about a man.
What does FBA stand for?
@@valenciaphillips1684 FBA stands for Foundational Black Americans. Also known as the decendants of the U.S government designated Black American Freedmen. The term given to the non-immigrant, native indigenous Black people of the U.S who built the country from scratch. In a nutshell.
12:52 Love what you said ❤❤✊🏾
Certified movie indeed
Didn't the actress who played Berniece also play Matilde (Chicken George's wife) in the 2016 remake of Roots?
Good review B
Danielle is a BEAST!!
Brandon, have you watched the original version?
Prolific Review!
I need to finish this movie
This movie was excellent and John David killed the movie ! Everybody did the best movie I seen in years ! Spiritually shook
They shouldn’t get an Oscar because it’s not theirs. It’s August Wilson’s. Nobody should get that much notoriety off the back of a dead man.
Can somebody please tell me if this review is spoiler free?
@@jnyerere yes it is spoiler free 💪🏾💯
I am excited to watch this now!
Powerful movie....saw it yesterday and I need to watch it again. Most definitely Oscar worthy.
I liked it. Movie was good
great movie
This was so good
👍🏼👍🏼
Real shame that when most people see a good performance all they think about is Marvel movies now as if that's the pinnacle.
So it's a bad thing to want an artist to be on the largest platform in the world? Got it
No, we can't cast her as Storm because it has to be Jodie Turner-Smith.
Nah
This movie ain't winning any oscar awards great cast but overall disappointing.
Why? What were you expecting and didn't get.
It was a boring snooze fest, the trailer made it look like an epic horror thriller but the movie was just a lot of sitting around the house talking & arguing, nothing happens until the last 20 mins and even that was a letdown. I was expecting this movie to be similar to "The Deliverance" a better version of that.
@markellg3141 I loved it. I also watched the 1997 version of this movie on TH-cam and loved it too. I've seen the play and read the book. It is ART!!! And August Wilson is a genius playwright. Not everyone gets that, and it's okay.
I finally saw the original it was excellent 5/5. The dialogue, characters and acting was much better. Everything flowed more naturally, it had charm and felt like an actual movie while this remake felt like a stage play trying to be a movie, really forced the dialogue and lacked personality.
None.
Don’t care. Can we get any other play about black people that doesn’t come from August Wilson? Is there anybody else who is sick
And tired of the same….never mind, I’m talking to the brain dead.
Fences was absolutely awful - Very traumatic and I did not like it at all. I don’t trust August Wilson films - I consider it trauma p*rn. I’m not a fan of the stories Hollywood decides to put on the screen. We are a beautiful people - full of joy and jokes and fun even in troubling times yet all of these films refuse to highlight that.
This was not trauma porn. It’s a beautiful movie, history and reverence of an American Black family. There were no weak people in the story.
@chelseagalloway6913 The way different people see "Fences" may be generational. It deeply explored the broad based impact of systemic, intentional racism and how Black people have creatively survived despite efforts to decimate us, our families and communities. I wholeheartedly agree that we are a joyful, beautiful people!
Movie sucked
This was so good