The captivating tale of mankind’s lunar expeditions has always enthralled audiences, but one film sheds light on the unsung heroes who made these missions possible.

Hidden Figures, featuring a star-studded cast including Taraji P Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons and Mahershala Ali, airs on Channel 4 tonight.

The film brings to life the inspiring story of three extraordinarily gifted and tenacious African American women who were instrumental in launching astronaut John Glenn into space during the 1960s.

The film traces the remarkable journeys of real-life NASA pioneers Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson.

These women were the intellectual powerhouses behind one of the most significant space accomplishments in history, reinforcing America’s leading role in the space race and rekindling the nation’s fascination with space exploration.

Hidden Figures not only celebrates their exceptional achievements but also highlights the hurdles and discrimination they faced.

The units they worked in were segregated by both race and gender, adding layers of complexity to their mission.

Despite a modest budget of just $25 million, Hidden Figures was a box office sensation, raking in an impressive $236 million upon its release in 2016.

Critics lauded the film, particularly praising the performances of the three leads – Taraji P Henson as Katherine Johnson, Octavia Spencer as Dorothy Vaughan, and Janelle Monae as Mary Jackson, reports <a href=”https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/powerful-space-film-based-poignant-36467006″ rel=”Follow” target=”_self”>the Mirror</a>.

Spencer secured both Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for her performance, whilst the entire ensemble triumphed at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, claiming Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

Hidden Figures earned three Academy Award nominations, spanning Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

The film boasts an impressive 93 per cent approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the renowned movie review aggregation platform.

One reviewer said: “Brilliant performances by Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae and a first rate ensemble make this a not to be missed revelation and righting of American herstory.”

A second critic added: “Watching Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Kansas City, Kansas homie Janelle Monáe bringing all to life is a “Hallelujah moment. “”.

Meanwhile, a third reviewer wrote: “Through strong performances, sensitive direction and the strength of its source material, Hidden Figures transcends cliché to become a genuinely moving, inspirational tale of perseverance, strength and love.”

The film has been a hit with viewers, with one fan saying: “I only wish it didn’t take me so long to experience this movie. It’s a definite must-see. BRAVO in every way.”

Another wrote: “I loved it so much, I purchased it. And I’ve watched it at least a half dozen times already. Okay, maybe more. The acting was so good, the obstacles these women overcame in their lives… beautifully acted. These women earned their place in history and helped push forward the science of space travel. It’s a must see!”.

A third added: “Love love love! ! ! ! Has all the things a great movie should have. Great acting, great story, based on true events. Never dull and watchable for everyone. Loved it!” A fourth said: “This is an incredible movie with one of the most beautiful scripts, an amazing soundtrack, and one of the best movie storylines. Absolute must see, I would watch this movie 100 times if I had time!”.

Hidden Figures will be broadcast on Channel 4 at 5.40pm on December 30.

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