Some people build fences to keep people out, and other people build fences to keep people in.|Dec. 16, 2016|United States | Canada|139 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Drama
Description: Fences is a 2016 American period drama film directed, produced, and starring Denzel Washington. The screenplay, written by August Wilson, is based on his Pulitzer Prize-winning 1985 play of the same name. Alongside Washington, the film features Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jovan Adepo, Russell Hornsby, Mykelti Williamson, and Saniyya Sidney. Filming took place from April 25 to June 14, 2016, in Pittsburgh’s Hill District, Pennsylvania.
The movie was released in the United States on December 16, 2016, by Paramount Pictures. It earned positive reviews, particularly praising Washington’s direction and acting, Davis’s performance, the screenplay, cinematography, and emotional depth. However, some critics felt the transition from stage to screen lacked a cinematic feel. Described as “extremely powerful and effective,” the film was a box office success, grossing $64 million against a $24 million budget.
The American Film Institute ranked it among the top ten films of 2016, and it received several accolades, including four Oscar nominations at the 89th Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Actor for Washington, Best Supporting Actress for Davis, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Davis won the Oscar for her role. Additionally, Washington was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actor, and Davis won for Best Supporting Actress.
Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, the story follows Troy Maxson, a garbage collector living with his wife, Rose, and their son, Cory. His younger brother, Gabriel, sustained a head injury in World War II, leaving him mentally impaired. Troy used Gabriel’s $3,000 government payout as a down payment for their home. Gabriel now lives across the street, causing financial strain for the family. Gabe’s erratic behavior sometimes leads to legal trouble, prompting Rose to suggest he might be better off in a hospital.
Cast director: Denzel Washington
Cast actor: Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jovan Adepo, Russell Hornsby, Mykelti Williamson, Saniyya Sidney, Lesley Boone, Christopher Mele, Jason Silvis
Original name: Fences