Phil’s Quick Capsule Review:
Stagy as it may be at times, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is a triumph of performance with Chadwick Boseman delivering what would be his final role with considerable aplomb and, no doubt, many pending award nominations across 2021.   But whilst undoubtably Boseman is the stand out here, support from the like of Colman Domingo, Viola Davis  & Glynn Turman to name but a few make this feel like a true ensemble.   And whilst it’s true that director George C. Wolfe is limited in the plays scope, what he does deliver is beautifully staged, not least his recreation of 20’s Chicago. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is highly recommended – a powerful story, superbly told. 

Best Bit: Boseman’s performance… it will be criminal if he doesn’t win awards for this.

Buy, Stream, Avoid: Stream (Netflix)

If You Liked this Try: Fences, Hamilton, Hidden Figures