The piano featured in “The Piano Lesson” is far from a simple decorative item. It’s an instrument that the cast frequently plays, and it showcases images of the Washington family and their ancestors. John David Washington humorously refers to the piano as “No. 1 on the call sheet.”
“We aimed to infuse the piano with spirit and life,” explains Malcolm Washington, the film’s director and John David’s brother.
August Wilson’s 1987 play, “The Piano Lesson,” places the piano at the heart of its narrative, symbolizing heritage and survival. Set in 1930s Pittsburgh, the piano resides unplayed in the home of Berniece Charles, played by Danielle Deadwyler, having been passed down as a cherished family heirloom since the days of slavery. However, Berniece’s brother, Boy Willie, portrayed by John David Washington, intends to sell it to acquire the Mississippi land where their ancestors labored as slaves.
Currently available in theaters and set to premiere on Netflix, “The Piano Lesson” is an emotionally charged family drama that also unfolds as a poignant ghost story. The Charles family’s debate over the piano reflects their confrontation with their ancestral past and the heavy legacy of slavery, culminating in a powerful form of exorcism.
“This process feels like both an exorcism and a possession,” remarks Deadwyler. “It’s about letting go of what never flourished while welcoming what has always been present, even if you were unaware.”
The adaptation of “The Piano Lesson,” which delves into themes of ancestry and heritage, has been a familial endeavor. This adaptation marks the third of Wilson’s plays produced by Denzel Washington, following “Fences” and “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” but it stands out as the first one largely entrusted to his family to direct.
“I was approached many years ago by Costanza, August’s widow, who asked me to guide these plays. I confidently accepted,” Washington shared during an interview with producer Todd Black. “In this case, I realized early on during filming that my presence was largely unnecessary because this kid knows exactly what he’s doing. I felt like I was just observing.”
Denzel Washington’s investment in continuing Wilson’s legacy stems from a deep sense of heritage that is mirrored in “The Piano Lesson.” This film serves as the directorial debut for 33-year-old Malcolm, who co-wrote the screenplay alongside Virgil Williams.
John David Washington, known for his roles in “BlacKkKlansman” and “Tenet,” first encountered Wilson’s work in a 2022 Broadway production of “The Piano Lesson,” assuming the role of Boy Willie. That performance featured Samuel L. Jackson, who originally took on Boy Willie in 1987, now playing the character of Doaker Charles, Berniece and Boy Willie’s uncle, in the film.
“There’s an incredible lineup of talented artists contributing their talents — from the veterans to the newcomers — all coming together to create something beautiful,” John David explains.
In Wilson’s works, the musicality resonates profoundly, especially through the unique language and blues-infused poetry interwoven into his dialogue. The character of Boy Willie, known for his intense energy and charisma, captivated John David.
“The sensation is indescribably rewarding when you realize that you’re expressing a truth, discovering new meanings within the monologues you’ve rehearsed extensively,” John David reflects. “When that magic happens, it’s truly special. I live for those moments.”
For the cast, unearthing the rhythm in “The Piano Lesson” involved embodying the pain and strength that has characterized Black American history. Much of that understanding was instinctual, while other aspects emerged through collaboration.
“Berniece carries a heavy burden, compounded by grief and a deep sense of longing,” Deadwyler shares as she mirrors experiences she’s witnessed in women throughout her life. “We reflect on the lives these women have led, carrying that weight with us.”
The cast and crew were also continuously aware of the rich legacy of performance that they were part of. When music legend Harry Belafonte passed away during production, Malcolm honored him by playing one of his songs on set. Shortly before “The Piano Lesson” premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, James Earl Jones, famous for his role in the original production of “Fences,” also sadly passed.
“I didn’t grow up watching films. My aspiration wasn’t about movies; I wanted to embody the presence of James Earl Jones,” Denzel admits. “My foundation was in theater. In the early days, there weren’t many Black actors to look up to. Leading roles were scarce.”
For Denzel Washington, August Wilson’s works provided a vital artistic lifeline.
“These roles are unparalleled; everyone desires them, including me,” he indicates with passion.
In the dramatic climax of the film, as the supernatural elements entwine with the narrative, Deadwyler felt a palpable connection to unseen forces. This moment sees “The Piano Lesson” unveil the layers of anguish and strife it has been accumulating. The walls adorned with photographs of the cast’s own ancestors vibrated with energy, signaling a soulful transformation, as Malcolm notes that Deadwyler was momentarily transported elsewhere.
“I distinctly remember sensing the ancestors entering the space,” Deadwyler recounts. “Although my eyes were often closed, I acutely felt their presence. There’s a shift in the energy that you can’t miss.”