2017 Oscar Special movie review: Denzel Washington's Fences

Fences is a family drama directed byDenzel Washington, who also plays the lead role. It isbased on the Pulitzer Prize winning stage drama by American playwright, August Wilson. Fencesis nominated for Oscar in the Best Pictures category.

Storyline: (3/5)
Movie’s plot is quite similar to what we see inIndian patriarchal families, so Indian audiences will be able to relate to it closely. The beauty of this story lies in small nuances of family drama that are both well thought out and carefully scripted.

Cinematography: (4/5)
Charlotte Bruus Christensen’s cinematography isnot only engaging but almost spellbinding. Even thoughthe movie is largely set in the cramped backyard of the protagonist’s house, each scene is rich and eachemotion is vivid.

An interesting bit of trivia:Christensenshot this movie on 35 millimetrefilm instead of digital. The authenticity of the technicalset up was an excellent choice.

Acting: (4/5)
Denzel Washington and Viola Davis are impeccable performers and thisfilm is absolutely no exception.

Washington’s role as the lead character, Troy Maxson, reflects myriads of emotions,all with absolute finesse. Viola Davis, as his wife Roseand as the binding thread of the family, brings a grounded performance to balance Troy’s forever changing moods.

Entertainment: (2/5)
It is tough to call this masterpiece entertaining. Individually, each aspect of the movie is excellent,but overall it is expected to appeal toonly a section of the common public.

Overall rating: (3/5)
Fences is for people who are inspired by cinematic excellence. This one doesn’t fit in the schedule designed for fun loving light weekends. Watch it only if you love to delve in the intricacies of the family bonds.

(WION)