One of the most anticipated films of this awards season, `Ma Rainey's Black Bottom` emerges as one of the premier Oscar vehicles for Netflix. At its soulful core, the farewell performance of the late Chadwick Boseman is as invigorating as anticipated. His work as Levee may very well be his best and most spiritual gift to cinema. Boseman has a real opportunity to join a short list that includes Peter Finch and Heath Ledger, two posthumous Oscar nominees who won their respective categories.

Based on the August Wilson play, `Ma Rainey's Black Bottom` tells the story of the tension that builds between Ma Rainey, nicknamed the `Mother of Blues` (played by Viola Davis), her ambitious horn player Levee, and the white management determined to control her music in 1927 Chicago.

After it was reported that Boseman would be submitted as lead actor by Netflix, one of the questions bubbling has been, `is it the right call?` In fact, I believe it is. If there is a lead of the film, it is undoubtedly Levee, and in a crisp 94-minute runtime, Boseman has the biggest moments with the most narrative heft. Along with his work in Spike Lee's `Da 5 Bloods` back in June, this year could be shaking up to be a coronation and tribute for the inspirational talent.

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Co-star Davis, who truly ignites in her eloquent, transformative work, is likely to secure her spot in the best actress race. She's currently tied with Octavia Spencer as the most nominated Black actress in Oscar history, and could even break that record come March 15, 2021, when the Academy Award nominations are announced.