The piano lesson: A cinematic triumph poised for Oscar glory
A new era of Black excellence in cinema
The Piano Lesson is making waves in the film industry, capturing the essence of Black excellence, masterful filmmaking, and stellar performances. This Netflix production, which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival, has already garnered significant acclaim. Directed by debut filmmaker Malcolm Washington and featuring powerhouse performances from John David Washington and Danielle Deadwyler, the film is a strong contender for a Best Picture nomination.
A tale of family and history
Adapted from the late playwright August Wilson’s “Century Cycle,” The Piano Lesson is set in 1936 Pittsburgh. The narrative centers on the Charles family as they confront their traumatic past and the literal ghosts of their ancestors. The family heirloom, a piano intricately carved with the history of their forebears, becomes the focal point of their struggle. The decision to sell or keep the piano as a memorial to their ancestors’ sacrifices and suffering is at the heart of the story.
Watch the trailer for The Piano Lesson
Stellar performances and potential Oscar nods
Danielle Deadwyler, who was notably overlooked for her role in Till (2022), delivers a stunning performance as Berniece, a recently widowed woman grappling with grief. Her portrayal is so compelling that it places her firmly in the Supporting Actress race. The film’s climax solidifies her as a formidable contender in the awards circuit.
Samuel L. Jackson, who received a Tony nomination for his role as Doaker Charles, reprises his role in the film. Although his part is somewhat reduced, Jackson’s presence is memorable, delivering sharp one-liners and zingers. However, it’s Ray Fisher, playing John David Washington’s friend, who truly stands out. Fisher’s performance has been widely praised and could earn him a spot in the Supporting Actor category, which currently lacks strong contenders.
Malcolm Washington’s directorial debut
Malcolm Washington’s feature directing debut is nothing short of impressive. While he is likely to be recognized by the Directors Guild of America in the first-time director category, an Oscar nomination might be more elusive. The Academy’s Directors Branch often favors established auteurs over newcomers, even if their films are critically acclaimed. To secure a nomination for The Piano Lesson, Netflix will need to highlight Washington’s unique vision and his ability to blend genres, drawing comparisons to Jordan Peele’s work.
John David Washington’s fearless portrayal
John David Washington delivers a fearless performance as Boy Willie, an arrogant and antagonistic brother striving to make his mark in a world that marginalizes Black men. His portrayal is unflinchingly unlikable yet deeply understandable, driven by the desire to sell the piano and buy his own land. This role could potentially earn him his first Oscar nomination. Interestingly, his father, Denzel Washington, is also expected to be in the acting discussion for his role in Gladiator II. If both make the final five for lead actor, it would be a historic first for a father and son to be nominated in the same category in the same year.
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A legacy of August Wilson adaptations
This film marks the third adaptation of one of Wilson’s plays, produced by Denzel Washington and Todd Black. Their previous adaptations, Fences (2016) and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, received critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations. Fences won Viola Davis an Oscar for Supporting Actress, while Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom earned six nominations and two wins. Critics have often noted that these adaptations feel more like plays than films. However, The Piano Lesson breaks this mold. Malcolm Washington and cinematographer Mike Gioulakis create a visually stunning film, drawing inspiration from Terrence Malick and Emmanuel Lubezki to deliver the most cinematic Wilson adaptation yet.
Technical brilliance
Beyond the performances and direction, The Piano Lesson boasts a haunting score by Alexandre Desplat and skilled editing by Leslie Jones, both of which could also receive recognition during awards season.
The Piano Lesson is set to open in theaters on November 8, with a Netflix streaming debut on November 22. This film is not just a testament to the enduring power of August Wilson’s work but also a showcase of Black excellence in cinema, promising to leave a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.