Thanks to all the people defending "Fences" as a great film

I just watched it and absolutely loved it. I had never seen the play before but was aware it was an American classic. Other than that, I went into this film cold and unaware what to expect. I suppose I should feel a little guilty about not knowing contemporary American drama enough to have not seen "Fences" before, but let me tell you: It deserves every accolade it has won over the years.

I want to thank the people here with the maturity and sophistication to defend this film against its detractors on this board. It's very difficult to believe, and a little scary, to see people angrily bad-mouthing it as a waste of time. Have we as a culture grown so inured to serious explorations of the human condition that we can't be moved by great works like this? Even as a teenager, I'm know I would have been moved by this film, and now later in life I'm most certainly moved by this work of art. I was a little in shock seeing some of the negative comments here, but I was so grateful to see the thoughtful and insightful defences of the film by others here, which is why I'm saying thanks. Thanks for letting me know that American culture hasn't fallen so far that there remains appreciation for wonderful plays and films that speak to the mind and heart and not a rampant thirst for adrenaline.

As to the film, it was absolutely perfectly acted with Denzel Washington giving the performance of a lifetime. I don't know how much of the role he crafted after his own persona, but this play fit him like a glove. It's really classic performance by one of our best actors. I know Hollywood likes to reward new talent to foster their careers, but upon seeing "Fences" I don't see how Denzel could not take home the Oscar for this film. It's such an expansive performance with humor, pain, and anger and Denzel never gives a false note. Viola Davis is every bit his equal. I see many awards going to "prestige" films which sometimes irk me, but what I saw here was an American classic brought to life by two supremely accomplished actors who truly were extraordinary in it. This film does not pander to critics or award show, it's a celebration of American and it black culture. Its' works like this that build bridges.

I thought Denzel Washington did a terrific job directing the film. He gave it just enough scope to make it work in the cinema, while keeping it pared down to that sad, bare backyard to remind one that this had its roots in the theater and that we should be listening to the words of poet behind it and not find distraction in the expectations of larger viseral pleasures on the cinema. I felt the production had just the right dimension and scope to keep things focused on the tremendous dialog and incredible performances.

Anyway, I suspected this might be a good film, but I had no idea how much I would enjoy it. A beautiful portrait of life with warmth, pain, and just a touch of magic to lift the spirits. It was a very moving experience and one of the greatest theater piece I've seen put on film.

I hope this film will win the accolades it deserves.