The Piano Lesson, based on August Wilson’s acclaimed play and directed by Malcolm Washington, delivers a captivating cinematic experience filled with stellar performances, heartfelt ambition, and moments of intense family tension. The film, primarily set within the confines of a single home in the 1930s, explores themes of generational wealth, dreams, and the deep complexities of familial bonds.
John David Washington shines as a driven schemer with a dream: to purchase land and build a legacy for his family. His character’s ambition fuels much of the story, sparking conflicts and heartfelt debates about preserving the past versus investing in the future. Other key performances come from Ray Fisher who delivers a strong performance, adding layers to the film’s emotional depth. Also Samual L Jackson and Dannie Deadwyler are great here. The film’s tight setting enhances the drama, keeping the audience immersed in its powerful emotional beats. The film is beautifully shot, bringing the era to life while heightening the tension among its characters.
It’s particularly special to see Denzel Washington’s sons collaborate on such an impactful project, with Denzel himself and his daughter stepping in as producers.
The big finale toward the end is undoubtedly the highlight, tying together the film’s themes in a way that lingers with you. If you have the chance, Netflix has a post-film discussion featuring the filmmakers you should stick around for—it offers valuable insight into the filmmakers’ intentions and the deeper meaning behind the story.
I enjoyed the movie overall, but its subject matter isn’t something I feel I’d ever need to revisit. So despite everything that works here, it does drag in certain parts.
The Piano Lesson is a powerful adaptation that pays homage to its stage origins while standing as a great cinematic moment in its own right. I’d advise checking the trailer out and if it speaks to you it might be worth checking out the full film.