Hidden Figures

Hidden Figures centers on three African American women who work behind the scenes at NASA during the early space race, quietly changing the course of history. Katherine G. Johnson uses math and persistence to solve calculations that challenge the engineers and keep a crucial flight on track. Dorothy Vaughan runs a team of Black women mathematicians, pushing for training and recognition even as the system tries to sideline them. Mary Jackson battles rigid rules to become an engineer, proving talent does not wear a color badge. Set against a nation wrestling with civil rights, the story shows friendship, grit, and teamwork lifting a mission from paper to orbit without losing humanity in the process.

Released in 2016, the drama is directed by Theodore Melfi and adapts the true story from Margot Lee Shetterly's book with a screenplay by Allison Schroeder and Melfi. It benefits from a warm ensemble and a clear, respectful handling of its subject.

Hidden Figures earned three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay, and Octavia Spencer won Best Supporting Actress for her role. The film's recognition helped spotlight the real life achievements of Johnson, Vaughan, and Jackson, sparking renewed discussion of women in STEM across generations.

The movie revived interest in the pivotal roles women of color played at NASA and in STEM fields. Critics and educators cited it as a gateway to discussions about race, gender, and opportunity, with performances that resonated beyond the screen and inspired classroom conversations and outreach programs across communities worldwide.

Critics praised the assembled cast and its clear, accessible storytelling. The film navigates themes of perseverance, collaboration, and the pursuit of equality, showing how intellect and teamwork can push institutions toward more inclusive practices in the face of prejudice and political change. Its feel good tone helped reach broad audiences.