The Piano Lesson

 

“Get your mama to tells you about that piano. And if she don’t, then I will.”

Powerful, intense and shadowed, The Piano Lesson is a cacophonous film full of the echoes of the past and the haunting of history in a rich familial drama adapted from August Wilson’s pained reflection on legacy, responsibility and sibling rivalry with a strong ensemble and elevated cinematic theatricality. 

Discussion Points:

This is now the 3rd August Wilson play adaptation produced by Denzel Washington and second with Netflix and many of the strengths and weaknesses of ‘Fences’ and ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ are present here in his second son Malcolm’s directorial debut: ‘The Piano Lesson.’ It’s an elevated play, retaining its theatricality in its performances and screenplay, and expanded cinematically by strong editing, lighting, cinematography and sound - which especially emphasis the story’s more historical, supernatural and spiritual elements to enliven this familial drama of haunted history. Whilst it struggles with pacing issues and tonal imbalances, it’s sustained by captivating performances. From the brash John David Washington playing to the back row, to the more nuanced and tender Ray Fisher, to the commanding and poised Danielle Deadwyler, in addition to the grandfatherly Samuel L. Jackson, sweet talking Michael Potts and charismatic preacher Corey Hawkins - it’s an ensemble that powerfully explore issues of sibling rivalry, intergenerational racial trauma, and family legacy. I was more intrigued by the family drama over the historical haunting but found the conclusion to be a deeply satisfying resolve to both. A strong debut for Malcolm Washington, and evidence that these August Wilson adaptations continue to be worthwhile.