With political tensions on the rise in recent months, “Hidden Figures” has come to theaters at a very important time. The movie stars actresses Taraji P. Henson (Katherine Johnson), Octavia Spencer (Dorothy Vaughan) and Janelle Monáe (Mary Jackson). The film tells the story of a group of African American women who went unrecognized for being essential figures in NASA’s mission of getting astronaut John Glenn into space.

“Hidden Figures” is filled with excellent performances across the board; the acting is impeccable. Both Spencer and Monáe are flawless in their powerful roles of Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson. However, Henson is the motivating performance that holds throughout the film.

The time period was also portrayed well in the movie. The costume choices in the film are very colorful and the music of the era is matched exceptionally.

Most importantly though, “Hidden Figures” sends a message of equality and self-motivation that will inspire people of all ages. While similar messages have been portrayed by other films in the past, “Hidden Figures” sends the message in a way that audience members can understand and also pays respect to those it portrays. It undoubtedly deserves its spot in the Academy Awards.