The new Netflix film adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play “The Piano Lesson” debuted to enthusiastic reviews at the Telluride Film Festival. Directed by first-time director Malcolm Washington, the film tells the story of the Charles family in 1930s Pittsburgh and their conflicts over a family heirloom piano.
Set in 1936, the movie focuses on siblings Boy Willie and Berniece Charles. The piano is carved with the faces of their enslaved ancestors and holds deep significance as a symbol of the family’s history. Boy Willie wants to sell the piano to buy land of his own. However, Berniece believes they must keep the piano to honor their family’s past.
Veteran actor Samuel L. Jackson takes on the role of Doaker Charles, the family patriarch. Critics said Jackson provided both humor and grounding as the emotional center of the film. He delivers one of the play’s crucial monologues about the piano’s background.
Leading actors John David Washington as Boy Willie and Danielle Deadwyler as Berniece received high praise for their performances. One reviewer called them a “dynamic duo.” Supporting roles, like those by Corey Hawkins and Michael Potts, also drew credit for rounding out the talented ensemble cast. Erykah Badu expands her role as a club singer from the original play.
Director Washington’s visuals, together with cinematographer Mike Gioulakis, brought dramatic flair. Specifically, they found ways to put viewers right in the instrument itself during pivotal scenes. Production design and costumes drew kudos as well for period authenticity and attention to detail.
While set in the 1930s, the story touches on themes of family history, sibling ties, and the struggle for economic opportunity that still resonate today. It also highlights the significance of land ownership for African Americans over time.
Early reviews suggest the adaptation stays true to Wilson’s rich storytelling style. It promises to introduce wider audiences to his powerful work, joining recent screen versions of “Fences” and “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” With its performances and thoughtful handling of weighty themes, “The Piano Lesson” looks poised for critical and viewer success.
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