Film discussion: Fences

Predictably, as a way to celebrate our survival, I suggest that you come to The Music Hall on Tuesday and join in our discussion of Fences, the Oscar-nominated (Best Picture, Denzel Washington for Best Actor, Viola Davis for Best Supporting Actress and Adapted Screenplay) movie made from the Pulitzer and Tony-winning play by August Wilson.

Like many movies made from plays, Fences is a small cast affair, with Denzel playing a man whose baseball career was thwarted by baseball’s color line and Viola Davis as his wife. Set in the 1950s, the action centers on Denzel’s frustration and the consequences for those around him.

If I had to come up with one reason to see Fences, I’d be tempted to just say, “because it’s good!” And that should be enough. The depth of its awards run, a great script and great acting, excellent direction by Denzel himself and breakout roles for a couple of excellent newcomers, all these should call to you as a film fan. (Plus, even if the Oscars are over, this will allow you to score one of the Best Picture nominees you might have missed.)

I’m looking forward to Fences the way a basketball fan might anticipate a matchup of two great teams. (Don’t know why that metaphor popped into my head. Madness.) The performances should be fabulous and the issues (race, work, fathers and sons, husbands and wives) are universal. It should make for a compelling discussion.

I hope to see you there, which is in The Historic Theater at 7:00 on Tuesday night. (And the same holds true for April, when we will be discussing Jackie on April 11 and Paterson on April 25.)