It’s no surprise that the Washington family is at the heart of what’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of the year. Over the weekend, the Telluride Film Festival saw the debut of The Piano Lesson, a film that has quickly become a hot topic in the industry. Directed by Malcolm Washington and featuring a star-studded cast including John David Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, and Danielle Deadwyler, this film is already being hailed as a strong contender for the upcoming awards season.
Denzel Washington, an iconic name in Hollywood, is no stranger to the works of August Wilson, having previously directed and starred in the critically acclaimed adaptation of Wilson's Fences, which earned Viola Davis an Oscar. This time, however, Denzel steps back, taking on the role of co-producer alongside his daughter, Katia, while his youngest son, Malcolm, takes the director's chair. The Washingtons have created a powerhouse of talent behind the scenes, and it’s clear that this film is a family affair.
At the heart of The Piano Lesson is a story steeped in history and the struggles of a Black family in the aftermath of the Great Depression. The film, adapted from August Wilson's 1987 play, revolves around the Charles family and their intense debate over a treasured family heirloom: a 137-year-old piano. This isn’t just any piano; it’s a relic intricately carved with the images of their enslaved ancestors. This historical and emotional weight sparks a conflict between siblings Bernice and Boy Willie, played by Danielle Deadwyler and John David Washington, respectively. Bernice believes the piano should be preserved as a symbol of their heritage, while Boy Willie sees it as a means to secure a better future by selling it and using the money to buy land. The clash of perspectives opens up a broader conversation about lineage, legacy, and the lengths we go to honor our past while forging ahead into the future.
Critics at the Telluride Film Festival were quick to heap praise on the film, with The Hollywood Reporter's Lovia Gyarkye highlighting Danielle Deadwyler's performance as nothing short of electrifying. Gyarkye noted, "Deadwyler submits herself completely to the will of her character. She slips into her skin with a quiet ease and, once bonded, finds and reveals her truth. The results are often electric." Such acclaim for Deadwyler signals that she might be a strong contender in the upcoming awards season, potentially following in Viola Davis's footsteps.
On the other hand, the direction by Malcolm Washington has also garnered widespread praise. Deadline's Pete Hammond remarked, "I can’t imagine that Wilson himself would not have been pleased seeing his story given this kind of treatment." Malcolm’s skillful handling of the material and his ability to bring out Oscar-worthy performances from the cast were highlighted by IndieWire's Caleb Hammond, who commended his knack for staging and the overall execution of the film.
The Piano Lesson is not just another film adaptation; it’s a testament to the enduring relevance of August Wilson's work. The play originally premiered in November 1987 at the Yale Repertory Theatre and later made its way to Broadway, where it was nominated for five Tony Awards. The script’s brilliance was further recognized when it won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1990. This new adaptation, set to stream on Netflix, introduces Wilson’s powerful narrative to a new generation, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire and provoke thought.
The Washington family’s involvement in this project goes beyond just professional commitment; it’s deeply personal. In an interview at the American Black Film Festival, Denzel Washington spoke about the experience of working with his children on this film. Reflecting on his time on set, he said, "After about two weeks [on set], I went home. I was like, there’s nothing for me to do here, I’m just in the way. I’m not saying this because he’s my son [Malcolm], but he’s very talented." Such a statement from Denzel, who is known for his exacting standards, speaks volumes about the trust and confidence he has in Malcolm's abilities.
Malcolm Washington, in an interview with PEOPLE magazine following the film's premiere, shared his thoughts on the significance of this project. "This movie is so personal to me, and the people that I got to make it with are the closest people in my life," he said, emphasizing the importance of keeping Wilson’s vision alive. He added that his father, Denzel, was instrumental in ensuring that they remained true to Wilson’s original work. "August Wilson is such a big part of his legacy and he feels so strongly connected and upholding the kind of reverence and giving access to August Wilson’s stories," Malcolm explained. "So I think for my Dad, throughout the whole process, his thing was like, 'We’re just going to respect and protect and take care of August.'"
The involvement of such a close-knit family unit in a project of this magnitude adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the film. It’s clear that The Piano Lesson is more than just a cinematic endeavor for the Washingtons; it’s a labor of love, a tribute to August Wilson’s legacy, and a testament to their commitment to telling powerful Black stories.
Given the early buzz, it’s tempting to speculate about The Piano Lesson’s chances at the Academy Awards. After all, the Washington family has a proven track record when it comes to bringing August Wilson’s work to life on the big screen. In 2017, Denzel’s adaptation of Fences not only earned him a Best Actor nomination but also secured Viola Davis her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. If the early reviews are any indication, The Piano Lesson could very well follow in those footsteps, if not surpass them.
With its compelling narrative, outstanding performances, and the Washington family’s dedication to honoring August Wilson’s legacy, The Piano Lesson is poised to be one of the standout films of the year. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling and the richness of Black history and culture. So, as we gear up for awards season, it might be wise to keep an eye on this film—it’s bound to make waves.
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