History's Hidden Figures | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

History's Hidden Figures

How much of what we have now is the work of those never recognized?

21
History's Hidden Figures
www.boingboing.net

So to properly ring in Martin Luther King Day, I went to see the movie "Hidden Figures." It was great. I am probably super biased in saying that because of what it is about. Three black women who go on to accomplish what were seemingly impossible feats at the time that they were done - but I would like to think I'm being genuine in the reasoning as to why I think it was great. One, the music. Pharell Williams did a great job with the soundtrack as it fit perfectly within the scenes. The dialogue was very clever, as it should be, given that it was all about a bunch of nerds getting together and trying to find a way to launch a dude into space. However, because of all the bright minds congregated in one room, it naturally opened the door for some scientific shade to be tossed around. I could appreciate both the banter I could and could not fully understand. The former made me feel smart whilst the latter made me desire to acquire more knowledge. I think this movie was a necessary adaptation of history, and while I can't directly speak for its accuracy, it will get people to look it up - and that's what these types of movies should be about, opening the topic up for discussion. The satire was hilarious but also portrayed real problems that people faced in those times and arguably still face today. The movie had a lot of memorable quotes and made me wonder how many other key figures in history remain hidden. How many of those that were hidden - or black? We can't hide behind our ancestors' struggles or their successes. They are not us, but it's important to know what they did. Sometimes all you need to see is someone who looks like you doing something great. With this movie, I saw three people like me, and I feel inspired.

It felt good to see a movie about black people that wasn't rooted in slavery or sports. We are more than what we can offer physically. While the movie still dealt with racism, it was different as it showcased our minds instead. I guess that's what I like about this movie most of all - that the characters never made themselves out to be victims and they didn't fit the stereotypes. They denied the idiotic idea of 'uplift' and got frustrated. "Every time we get ahead, they move the finish line." There was no complacency and they certainly didn't stand around and do nothing.This isn't to say other people didn't contribute - they did - but the fact that there had to be an entire movie made about them just for us to know how vital they are to history is disappointing. That says more than this article ever could.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Featured

12 Midnight NYE: Fun Ideas!

This isn't just for the single Pringles out there either, folks

13962
Friends celebrating the New Years!
StableDiffusion

When the clock strikes twelve midnight on New Year's Eve, do you ever find yourself lost regarding what to do during that big moment? It's a very important moment. It is the first moment of the New Year, doesn't it seem like you should be doing something grand, something meaningful, something spontaneous? Sure, many decide to spend the moment on the lips of another, but what good is that? Take a look at these other suggestions on how to ring in the New Year that are much more spectacular and exciting than a simple little kiss.

Keep Reading...Show less
piano
Digital Trends

I am very serious about the Christmas season. It's one of my favorite things, and I love it all from gift-giving to baking to the decorations, but I especially love Christmas music. Here are 11 songs you should consider adding to your Christmas playlists.

Keep Reading...Show less
campus
CampusExplorer

New year, new semester, not the same old thing. This semester will be a semester to redeem all the mistakes made in the previous five months.

1. I will wake up (sorta) on time for class.

Let's face it, last semester you woke up with enough time to brush your teeth and get to class and even then you were about 10 minutes late and rollin' in with some pretty unfortunate bed head. This semester we will set our alarms, wake up with time to get ready, and get to class on time!

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

The 5 Painfully True Stages Of Camping Out At The Library

For those long nights that turn into mornings when the struggle is real.

2757
woman reading a book while sitting on black leather 3-seat couch
Photo by Seven Shooter on Unsplash

And so it begins.

1. Walk in motivated and ready to rock

Camping out at the library is not for the faint of heart. You need to go in as a warrior. You usually have brought supplies (laptop, chargers, and textbooks) and sustenance (water, snacks, and blanket/sweatpants) since the battle will be for an undetermined length of time. Perhaps it is one assignment or perhaps it's four. You are motivated and prepared; you don’t doubt the assignment(s) will take time, but you know it couldn’t be that long.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

The 14 Stages Of The Last Week Of Class

You need sleep, but also have 13 things due in the span of 4 days.

1669
black marker on notebook

December... it's full of finals, due dates, Mariah Carey, and the holidays. It's the worst time of the year, but the best because after finals, you get to not think about classes for a month and catch up on all the sleep you lost throughout the semester. But what's worse than finals week is the last week of classes, when all the due dates you've put off can no longer be put off anymore.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments