Ma Rainey's Black Bottom: black and blues - a quick film review

Viola Davis as Ma Rainey

Though the year has been a hot mess in many ways, I must congratulate Netflix for coming through with the black representation this year. Released on the 18th of December, Ma Rainey’s black bottom is the latest adaptation of August Wilson’s 1982 play of the same name and comes with a serious cast, including the late Chadwick Boseman (who sadly passed away earlier this year) and award-winning actress Viola Davis.

This biopic, which runs for just over 90 minutes, shares the story of a blues band who, like any other musicians, are trying to navigate the music industry. Successful as they are, they experience conflict between each other as egos and ambitions start to clash. This, however, is not the biggest battle that they need to overcome… Their white producers at the studio have different ideas for the band as they try to exploit and control the direction of the group behind Raineys’ back.

“Mother of Blues” Ma Rainey, must maintain control in the genre she knows best to prevent the industry from appropriating a culture that has deep roots. In adapting the genre to appease the new generation, there is a risk of losing its meaning. In a world that is in favour of the white man, and with no real power in the ‘real world’ as black individuals - despite success and talent - the group is split between sticking by what they know and adapting to please.

This is spearheaded by young trumpet player Levee (Boseman), who has big visions for himself. As a strong, dominant, and very hot-headed individual, he finds himself clashing with his elder counterparts (played by Glynn Turman, Colman Domingo, and Michael Potts) and often comes across as arrogant. With the persuasion and false promises of the white producers, Levee believes he has a real shot at a good future and in turn looks down at his fellow musicians who seem to be stagnant and content. To the band members, Levee is selling himself short to the white man and his lack of experience means he will not be prepared for their swindling.

In good faith, the elder group of men attempt to warn him about the industry but Levee does not want to listen and sees it as minimising his potential. It’s not until Levee opens up about his personal experiences that they realise that he is more equipped than he first let on… though it is his hot-headed characteristics that eventually becomes his downfall.

This film features the segregation of black people within society and the disadvantages experienced as a result of racism. It is evident through Levee’s character that this pent-up frustration has been triggered by the ammunition of pain and injustice. Ultimately, it is the systematic racism that is at the epicentre of the band’s disagreement.

Amongst all the chaos is a small romance that peaks between young Dussie Mae and a band member. As a young woman just trying to explore life, she engages in flirtatious exchanges between her and Ma Rainey (who are supposedly dating). Though it isn’t clear if they are together, Ma Rainey’s bisexuality is apparent and brings light to the queer black woman trying to navigate in a white man’s world (and the extra obstacles that come with it), especially in the ‘20s.

"We're so used to seeing Black characters defined by white people. And when they're defined by white people, their voice gets taken away, their sexuality gets taken away. They are defined in the image of — take what I'm about to say with a grain of salt — but I'm gonna say it, they are defined in the mindset of the oppressor." - Viola Davis

Even at the top of her game, Ma Rainey must fight for her place at the table and she ensures that her preferences are met. This sends a message to always know your worth in order not to be sold out short which isn’t usually the narrative we see in these dynamics. Ma Rainey is confident in herself, her talent, and her worth, and refuses to be questioned or undermined. Ma Rainey did what she wanted on her own terms and no amount of power or status was going to change that.

Based on a true story - Ma Rainey in her element.

I must say that the acting was brilliant - and although it may feel bias saying that Boseman’s performance was top when this was his final film, he does earn his right in this film as he encapsulates the character perfectly. Likewise, Viola’s dominant, roughly presented and her larger frame is different to what we’re used to which is also a testimony to the versatility in her acting and does justice to the trailblazer that was Ma Rainey.

Overall rating 8/10

If you liked this, you can check out the behind the scenes which is also available on Netflix.

Liz x