Fences

     Fences is directed by Denzel Washington (Training Day) and stars Washington, Viola Davis (The Help), and Jovan Adepo. It tells the story of the Maxson family, as the father, Troy, attempts to raise his family during the civil unrest during the 1950s.

     Based on a play by August Wilson, I was anticipating this movie because of Wilson’s work, one of the few things I read and enjoyed in full during my time in high school. It was socially relevant and the interactions were tense. So when I heard about the movie, I was excited to see the play but to the screen, especially with the talent involved behind the scenes.

     The highlight of this movie was the performances. Denzel was electric and magnetic as the leader of his household. He is not necessarily a good man, but he tries to do right by his family, despite what his family wants. And he is a flawed protagonist, with his own ego getting in the way. Davis packed an emotional punch line after line and shows a genuine emotion that was palpable. Both performances are most definitely worth the Oscars they will be nominated for. But perhaps the biggest surprise was Adepo. Looking at his previous work, this his first major role and he stands toe to toe next to some of Hollywood’s heaviest hitters.

     Washington’s direction felt even the most mundane scenes feel interesting. He never lets the camera rest with it continually moving ever so slightly, building the tension that lies underneath all of the conversations. With the bulk of the movie taking place within a single location, it would have been much easier to set up tripods and film the actors interactions. But Washington decides instead to get up close and personal with the actors and set up shots with action taking place outside of what the main story is that helps make the movie feel more realistic.

     My biggest problem with Fences is some pacing issues with the script. When reading the play, when it begins to drag, it’s easy to put it down and come back to it in a couple of hours. Even watching the play, you have the opportunity to have an intermission to let what you have just seen wash over you and prepare yourself for what’s coming next. But the movie felt as if twenty minutes could be excised from it and wouldn’t have hurt the product overall.

    If parts of a movie can be cut out, it’s hard for me to recommend you run out to see it immediately. But overall, Fences is a near great movie bolstered by some of the best performances of the year and inspired direction.

When should you see it?
Wait a Week