'A great privilege': Denzel Washington's epic journey to bring August Wilson's plays to screen, including Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Denzel Washington's vision leads to the triumphant adaptation of August Wilson's play "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom." After 40 years, the film brings the Broadway magic to Netflix, scoring five Oscar nominations. Washington's commitment to the project is a testament to his passion for Wilson's works.
Updated : October 20, 2023 05:26 PM ISTDenzel Washington's vision leads to the triumphant adaptation of August Wilson's play "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom." After 40 years, the film brings the Broadway magic to Netflix, scoring five Oscar nominations. Washington's commitment to the project is a testament to his passion for Wilson's works.
Denzel Washington (Source: Wallpaper Abyss)
“A Great Privilege” – A Remarkable Journey to the Big Screen: Denzel Washington's Resurrection of August Wilson’s “Ma Rainey's Black Bottom”
August Wilson's dream took nearly 40 years to manifest on the silver screen, and the film version of "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" was well worth the wait. Thanks to the dedication of one man, Denzel Washington, that dream became a reality.
Denzel Washington's Commitment to History
Denzel Washington, signing with Wilson's estate in 2015 to film all 10 plays, coined “August Wilson is one of the greatest playwrights in American theater history, and to share his style, his words, his wisdom and his talent with the world is a great privilege.” Now, Netflix’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” showcases the legend of Gertrude (Ma) Rainey, aka the Mother of the Blues.
Washington's collaboration with “the incomparable George C. Wolfe” was nothing short of harmonious, creating a symphony for the eyes. Starring award-nominated actors Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, the film's accolades only grew with two of its five Oscar nominations.
The Legacy of August Wilson and Denzel Washington's Timeless Partnership
The prolific playwright, Wilson, brought five of his 10 plays to life between 1982 and 1987. His take on writer's block was unconventional, telling Variety, “You put a piece of paper in the writer, you type on it. … If it’s not good, you tear it up and start over again; it’s not that big a deal.”
The unique subject matter of "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," set in the roaring ’20s, made it stand out even within Wilson's impressive catalog. From the dance craze to the influence on generations of singers, the play was poised for cinematic greatness.
Drawing the Curtain on a Broadway Gem
While only three plays from Wilson's Century Cycle have been adapted to screen, Washington's endeavors are changing that reality, preserving a historical treasure for future generations. From the Rabbit's Foot Minstrels to the controversial version of the Black Bottom dance, Variety has chronicled the journey, revealing the highs and lows of this masterpiece.
As reported by Variety, Washington's work has reinvigorated the stories of yesteryears and has given them a voice in contemporary cinema. Washington’s relentless pursuit of greatness is more than a revival; it's a tribute to a legend.
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