The Piano Lesson

There’s a lot going on in The Piano Lesson, and it’s occasionally challenging to keep track of the story’s multiple strands. But by keeping Deadwyler’s face in sight, you can never lose your way.

August Wilson's 1987 play is opened up in ways that that work—and some that don't—in this beautifully acted film adaptation.

This drama works best when it’s not taking its cues directly from its source material. It may not be always totally compelling, but Deadwyler elevates every scene she’s in.

Yes, The Piano Lesson hits a few bum notes. Its melody nonetheless remains intact.

“The Piano Lesson” is the weakest of the Denzel Washington-produced Pittsburgh Cycle. But when you’re working with Wilson’s material, there’s an inherent richness, and the questions this film raises have never been more potent.

As with so many plays adapted for screen, it’s the enclosure that really holds you.

A solid feature debut from Malcolm Washington. The intense, spine-chilling story can be a challenging watch, but the excellent cast, especially Danielle Deadwyler, keeps it engaging.

The Piano Lesson’ is a captivating drama that delves into a family’s struggle over an heirloom piano.

Malcolm achieves a noteworthy cinematic success, through confrontational collisions replete with deeply emotional connections, that landscape inhabited most empathetically and painfully by close family members.

The words of revered playwright August Wilson still land hard and heavy as delivered by a strong ensemble haunting screens together.