How Family-Friendly is Hidden Figures?

Rating: PG, for thematic elements and some language.

This inspiring, historical drama came out in limited release on Christmas Day, but it opens nationwide on Jan. 6, so I wanted to make sure I caught up with it for you. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monae star as three of the brilliant black women who helped NASA with crucial mathematical calculations as the United States began launching rockets into space. Because this was 1961 Virginia, they faced institutionalized racism and sexism on a daily basis, but they maintained their integrity and dignity and became invaluable to the space program. Director Theodore Melfi’s film shows them interacting with police and cruel co-workers and being forced to use segregated bathrooms, buses, and libraries. The discrimination they dealt with may be uncomfortable or confusing for younger viewers to watch, but it also may provide an opportunity for a discussion about our history of race relations in the United States. There’s a tiny bit of language and kissing. And the two-hour running time may make it a tough sit for little kids. But Hidden Figures is a well-made, feel-good story full of excellent role models for both girls and boys to see. I’d say it’s fine for ages 7 or 8 and up.