Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom is a 2020 American drama film directed by George C. Wolfe and written by Ruben Santiago-Hudson, based on the play of the same name by August Wilson. The film, and its source play, focus on Ma Rainey, an influential blues singer, and dramatizes a turbulent recording session in 1920s Chicago.

The film began a limited theatrical release on November 25, 2020, before beginning to stream on Netflix on December 18. The film was acclaimed by critics, who lauded the performances of Davis and Boseman, as well as the costumes and production values. It was named as one of the ten best films of 2020 by the American Film Institute. The film received nine NAACP Image Award nominations, including Outstanding Motion Picture, eight Critics' Choice Movie Award nominations, three 27th Screen Actors Guild Award nominations, while Davis and Boseman both received nominations for their performances at the Golden Globes.

This film features several U.S. Presidential Scholars and YoungArts alumni!