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Tensions rise during a 1927 recording session between Ma Rainey, her horn player, and white management.
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Why watch the movie Ma Rainey's Black Bottom?
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Chicago, 1927. A recording session. Tensions rise between Ma Rainey, her ambitious horn player and the white management determined to control the uncontrollable "Mother of the Blues". Based on Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson's play.
"On one hand, 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' is one of those movies that seem tailor-made for awards season. Great actors, an uplifting story as always seen in the Oscars and showstopping performances. However, there is something special about this Netflix exclusive feature. After all, firstly, there is the good and interesting true story about the relationship between Ma Rainey, one of the queens of the Blues, and her trumpet player. It's sensational and, above all, it has a striking musicality. Furthermore, you can't help but be moved by the cast. Viola Davis ('Fences') gives it her all on screen, creating a real, strong and visceral Ma Rainey. Meanwhile, Chadwick Boseman ('Black Panther') moves us, in his last big movie role, making a strong counterpoint to the protagonist. In the end, we have a movie that knows how to mix the emotion of the scenes with the pulsating musicality of the Blues. You'll end up watching the movie crying and singing."