Hidden Figures (2016), directed by Theodore Melfi

The most remarkable feature of this film is that it is based on true events. For those who haven’t lived it the endemic racism in 1960s Virginia, which permeates every aspect of life, culture and work, is truly shocking. Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae and Teraji P Henson shine as the three feisty women who overcome barriers of gender and race to play important roles in the NASA space program. Spencer is especially good as the inspiring and resourceful Dorothy Vaughan. Among a strong supporting cast Kirsten Dunst is very good and Mahershala Ali is mesmerising in a small role. The film does a good job of balancing the science and numbers with the human stories. It hits every beat, perhaps a little too precisely and perfectly at times but is genuinely enjoyable and thought-provoking without preaching.