Why Fences (2016) Was a Masterpiece

When Fences premiered in 2016, it brought August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play to the big screen with breathtaking authenticity. Directed by Denzel Washington and featuring powerhouse performances, the film resonated with audiences and critics alike. Its success lay in its ability to marry theatrical intensity with cinematic elegance, offering a profound exploration of family, dreams, and the African-American experience. Here’s why Fences was so good:

Why Fences (2016) Was a Masterpiece

1. Stellar Performances

At the heart of Fences is the extraordinary acting by Denzel Washington and Viola Davis.

• Denzel Washington as Troy Maxson
  Washington delivers a towering performance as Troy, a former baseball player whose bitterness about his unfulfilled dreams shapes his complex relationship with his family. Washington captures Troy’s charisma, flaws, and emotional volatility with remarkable depth.
• Viola Davis as Rose Maxson
  Davis, who won an Academy Award for her role, is the emotional anchor of the film. Her portrayal of Rose is both heartbreaking and inspiring, particularly during her climactic confrontation with Troy, which remains one of the most memorable scenes in modern cinema.

Together, their chemistry transforms the Maxson household into a visceral and relatable space.

2. Faithful Adaptation of a Classic Play

August Wilson’s Fences is a masterpiece of American theater, and the film stays true to its roots. The screenplay, adapted by Wilson himself, retains the lyrical quality of the original dialogue, ensuring that every line brims with meaning and emotion.

The decision to keep the setting largely within the confines of the Maxson home and backyard mirrors the play’s intimacy, drawing viewers into the lives of the characters. This focus on dialogue and performance allows the themes of race, responsibility, and generational conflict to shine.

3. Timeless Themes

Fences explores universal themes that resonate across cultures and generations:

• Dreams Deferred
  Troy’s frustration with his unfulfilled potential and his inability to move beyond his past failures reflect the struggles many face in reconciling their dreams with reality.
• Father-Son Relationships
  The tense relationship between Troy and his son Cory is a poignant study of generational expectations, love, and misunderstanding.
• The Role of Women
  Rose’s journey highlights the sacrifices women often make within families, shedding light on their resilience and strength.

4. Cinematic Direction by Denzel Washington

Though steeped in its theatrical origins, Washington’s direction brings a cinematic edge to Fences. He uses subtle camera movements, framing, and lighting to emphasize emotional beats, ensuring that the film doesn’t feel static. The intimate cinematography complements the raw performances, making the audience feel like part of the Maxson family.

5. A Celebration of Black Stories

Fences is an essential piece of the African-American cultural canon. It explores the impact of systemic racism on personal ambitions and family dynamics while celebrating the strength and resilience of Black families. By bringing Wilson’s words to the big screen, the film ensures these stories reach a wider audience, highlighting their relevance in contemporary society.

6. Emotional Impact

Few films manage to pack as much emotional weight as Fences. From Troy’s charismatic storytelling to Rose’s heart-wrenching confrontation, every scene feels like a punch to the gut. The movie invites viewers to laugh, cry, and reflect, making it a deeply human experience.