Ron Griffith reviews Denzel Washington’s film adaptation of Fences, out on 17 February 2017
Fences is a cinematic adaptation of the acclaimed 1983 Play by August Wilson, following the far reaching repercussions of a charismatic yet conflicted 1950s Pittsburgh Garbageman Troy Maxson as he makes his way through life. The story itself touches on many themes including, love, race, and betrayal.
Following the initial 1987 run on Broadway, the production won numerous Tony Awards, including Best Play, Best Direction of a Play,
James Earl Jones’ second Best Lead Actor in a Play win and a Best Lead Actress in a Play win for Mary Alice.
The 2010 return to the Theater starring Denzel Washington and Viola Davis in the lead roles met with similar success, garnering wins for Best Revival of a Play, Best Performance of an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play, and Best Performance of an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play.
Although the strictly limited locations and the intensive dialogue reinforces the feeling of a story originally adapted from a play, the
nuanced synergy of the 2010 ensemble cast brings the story to life on the big screen.
given their respective moment in the sun. Aside from the well crafted performance of the leads, special mention should also be made of Mykelti Williamson, Russel Hornsby,
