Ma Rainey's Black Bottom Review

Certificate: 15

Running time: 93 minutes

Starring: Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Taylour Paige, Colman Domingo, Glynn Turman

Directed by: George C. Wolfe

The story: Tensions rise over the course of an afternoon recording session when legendary performer Ma Rainey finds herself battling to take control of her music from her white manager and producer.

The verdict: It has to be said that there is an underlying sadness in watching Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. This was the last performance from Chadwick Boseman and his performance just reinforces what a phenomenal talent he was. As I was watching the film, I did feel that it was an Academy Award Best Supporting Actor performance and I dearly hope that he is nominated. All the performances in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom are great, but I must also single out Viola Davis. She can do no wrong and this is another standout performance from her.

Based on the play of the same name by August Wilson, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom does often watch like a play and certainly at times it feels more theatrical rather than cinematic. Though this may be jarring for some audiences, for me this was not an issue. I do enjoy films such as these and it did remind me of the style of Fences – another film based on a play and also starring the magnificent Davis.

At ninety-three minutes, the film is well paced, and I think that it is the perfect running time. Any shorter and it would have felt as if it were missing something, but certainly any longer and it would have felt dragged out.

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom showcases an interesting part of history and though Ma Rainey may at first seem difficult to warm to, it soon becomes clear why she must fight to be in control at every point. The struggles of inequality are not always overt but when they come up – wow do they hit hard. Boseman’s character Levee has one monologue in particular that is like being hit by a truck.

Overall, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a film that is elevated by two terrific and important performances. I hope that these performances get the recognition that they deserve.

The rating: ★★★★