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Fences (film)

Fences is a 2016 American period drama film directed by Denzel Washington and written by August Wilson, based on Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1985 play.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Fences is a 2016 American period drama film directed by Denzel Washington and written by August Wilson, based on Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1985 play. Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, it follows Troy Maxson, a working-class African-American father whose past shapes his family life. The film stars Denzel Washington and Viola Davis, and was released by Paramount Pictures.

Plot

The film centres on Troy Maxson, a sanitation worker and former baseball player, as he struggles with family tensions, racial barriers, and the consequences of his past.

Production

Fences was adapted from August Wilson’s stage play, with Wilson credited as screenwriter. Denzel Washington directed and co-produced the film.

Release

The film premiered in 2016 and was released theatrically in the United States on December 16, 2016, before a wider release later in December.

Reception

The film was widely discussed for its performances, particularly those of Denzel Washington and Viola Davis, and it achieved notable commercial success relative to its budget.

Key facts

  • Film adaptation of August Wilson’s 1985 play Fences
  • Set in 1950s Pittsburgh
  • Denzel Washington directed and starred
  • Viola Davis co-starred as Rose Maxson
  • Grossed over $64.4 million worldwide against a $24 million budget
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Canadian context

The film was described in some sources as an American-Canadian production and was distributed internationally, making it relevant to Canadian audiences interested in stage-to-screen adaptations and Black American drama.

Frequently asked questions

What is Fences about?
It follows Troy Maxson, a former baseball player and sanitation worker, as he tries to support his family in 1950s Pittsburgh while confronting his past.
Who directed Fences?
Denzel Washington directed and co-produced the film.
What is Fences based on?
It is based on August Wilson’s 1985 play of the same name.
Who stars in Fences?
The film stars Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jovan Adepo, Russell Hornsby, Mykelti Williamson, and Saniyya Sidney.
When was Fences released?
It was released in the United States on December 16, 2016.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fences_(film)
    Supports: Basic film identification, plot, cast, release date, budget, and worldwide gross.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Fences-film
    Supports: Confirms the film as Denzel Washington’s 2016 adaptation of August Wilson’s play.
  3. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/fences_2016
    Supports: Provides synopsis, principal credits, genre, runtime, and release information.
  4. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2671706/
    Supports: Lists runtime and release dates.
  5. Wikipedia — https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fences_(film)
    Supports: Notes the film as an American-Canadian production in French-language coverage.