Skip to main content

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Fences (2016)


What is it about? 

A working-class black man in the 1950's tries to raise and support his family in the 1950's while coming to grips with the events in his life that lead him to this point.

Who is in it? 

Denzel Washington - Troy Maxson

Vola Davis - Rose Maxson

Stephen Henderson - Jim Bono


Favorite Scene:

After the differences in characteristics leads to a showdown between Troy and Cory, Troy delivers another series os statements that unveils much of the demons he deals with, and much of the experiences which have lead him to where he is today.

Favorite Quote: 

Troy: It's not easy for me to admit that I've been standing in the same place for eighteen years!

Rose: Well, I've been standing with you! I gave eighteen years of my life to stand in the same spot as you!

Review: 

I really, really, really - REALLY liked Fences. There are so many ways that I can go in this review of this film. The first one, obviously being the transition of the film from a theatre stage to film. I loved that the film kept much of the true essence of it's art with long scenes and dialogues. And of course, you know you're in for a treat with any film headlined by Denzel and Viola.

For me, Fences is one of the best films I've seen from 2016. From the talent involved, the message sent from the film, and the set design/camera angles, the film really is a gem to see. It's literally a great blend of bringing the theatre to your living space.

As for taking my review into another direction, I will say this - after seeing Machester By the Sea and Fences, I'm not sure how Casey Affleck won Best Actor over Denzel in Fences. I honestly don't even think it's close. Affleck was indeed good, but Denzel was other worldly in his role as Troy Maxson. So, so, good.

Nonetheless, not much else I can say but go out and see Fences. It's worth it.

Grade: 5/5

Recent Favorites

Quick Ponder: Free and Guarded

Stay free. But keep the gate to  your peace, guarded.

WWE Wrestlemania XL Review: "I absolutely loved this Wrestlemania"

It's easy to get caught up and become a prisoner of the moment. Especially in today's world where the latest moment is ostracized, super-analyzed, and hyperbolized - it's very much the clickbait, social media, microwave society we live in.  Yet, even after acknowledging that (as well as my Tribal Chief, of course), I still come to this feeling that Wrestlemania XL is one of the best Wrestlemania's, ever.  Yes, ever!  I don't need Triple H's metrics and benchmarks to influence me. No, no, no! In terms of hype, storylines, payoffs, match quality, and just overall fun - this entire weekend was amazing.  I'm slightly skewed in my preference as well. This was my son's first Wrestlemania as a pro wrestling fan. Having him at my side cheering on his favorites, getting caught up in the drama, and even crying at the end of the night because his Tribal Chief lost to "that no good Cody" added to the overall appreciation of the event.  So yeah, I have some

NXT Stand and Deliver 2024 Review: 'For super casual NXT fans like me - no complaints here'

It's become officially a tradition that NXT Stand and Deliver makes Wrestlemania weekend feel like the ultimate wrestling weekend - as if it isn't already. There is just something about a major show being held midday on a Saturday, among the hype for the already dual night of Wrestlemania - that just emanates and screams - wrestling fans, don't go anywhere all weekend.   Nonetheless, NXT Stand and Deliver 2024 for this super causal NXT viewer was entertaining. I was well aware (and followed) the story of Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes (more on that in a bit) more so than the other happenings, but that didn't matter. The show offered many reasons to check out Shawn Michaels' project on Tuesday nights.  With that said, here are some quick thoughts on NXT Stand and Deliver 2024:  - Baron Corbin is amazing on the NXT brand. For many reasons, he just never clicked for me on the major brands - and that very likely might not even be his fault. I didn't think Axiom an