Fences & Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

August Wilson is a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning playwright known for his powerful and intense plays about race in 20th-century America. "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" and "Fences" are two of his most celebrated works, depicting the struggles of Black Americans with lyrical richness and emotional heft.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2020
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Two remarkable and powerful modern classics about race in 20th-century America are brought to life on the screen in the Netflix film adaptation of August Wilson's plays. "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" is a tense and searing portrayal of racism in jazz-era America, hailed as a genuine work of art by The New Yorker. In this play, the legendary blues diva Ma Rainey arrives at a run-down Chicago recording studio with her entourage to cut new sides of old favorites. Waiting for her are the black musicians in her band, as well as the white owners of the record company. The tension and conflict between the two groups are palpable, as they navigate the complexities of race and power dynamics in the 1920s. "Fences" is another masterpiece by August Wilson, focusing on Troy Maxson, a garbage collector, an embittered former baseball player, and a proud and dominating father in 1950s Pittsburgh. When college athletic recruiters scout his teenage son, Troy faces a series of conflicts and challenges. He struggles with his son's ambition, his wife's understanding, and his own frustrated dreams. "Fences" is a profound exploration of the human condition, exploring themes of family, identity, and the pursuit of success. August Wilson is a prolific and successful playwright who has confined his themes to African American culture. His work is characterized by its lyrical richness, theatrical density, and emotional heft. Wilson's plays give vivid voices to people on the frayed margins of life, providing a powerful and nuanced portrayal of the African American experience. He has established himself as the richest theatrical voice to emerge in the U.S. since Tennessee Williams and Arthur Miller. His plays have been widely acclaimed and have had a significant impact on American theater and culture. In conclusion, the Netflix film adaptation of August Wilson's plays is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring relevance of his work. "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" and "Fences" are two stunning and powerful modern classics that explore the complexities of race and identity in 20th-century America. August Wilson's portrayal of the African American experience is nuanced and profound, and his plays have had a lasting impact on American theater and culture. These films are a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of American history and society.

Weight: 150g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241987834