Fences (2016)

Adapting a stage play to a film is difficult and takes a certain kind of magic. Fortunately director/star Washington is up for the task. He finds a way to bring a cinematic sense to the production. Filming August Wilson's own adaptation of his play, Washington makes the dialogue and characters of Wilson's play belong on the big screen.

Fences is a showcase for at least 2 actors. He knocks the first out of the park, giving his most inspired performance in decades (yes I am including the overrated Training Day). He becomes the consummate Troy and plays all the dimensions of this multifaceted character perfectly. He hasn't lost any of his screen presence or his pure talent. He is remarkable in the kind of complex role which would fall flat if not executed so expertly.

And then he does himself a large favor by casting the undeniably incredible Viola Davis opposite him. Again, Rose is a very difficult role to pull off. It takes someone of Davis' stature and talent to pull make her truly work. And work she does. Fences becomes a showcase for two of the best actors working in Hollywood today, parts which are truly deserving of their powers. I could just watch the two of them go on and on.

Fences isn't an easy story to tell. It's not about easy to compartmentalize people. It doesn't have a resolution which makes everything okay. It is about pain, loss, missed opportunities, injustice, hurting the ones we love. It is powerful, powerfully directed, and powerfully acted. Fences is the real deal.

And it's worth it just to see Washington and Davis show us all how it's done.

Fences
Starring: Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen Henderson, Jovan Adepo, Russell Hornsby, Mykelti Williamson
Director: Denzel Washington
Writer: August Wilson