Fences is set in 1950s Pittsburgh, revolving around Troy Maxson, a former Negro league baseball player who now works as a garbage collector. Battling past regrets, Troy grapples with a strained relationship with his son Cory, and an affair that risks tearing his family apart. Baseball becomes both a symbol of missed opportunities and a point of contention between father and son.

At its core, Fences is about Troy building barriers, both physically around his home and emotionally with his family. His choices have profound impacts on his loved ones, culminating in a powerful climax addressing their shared, complex history. With standout performances by Denzel Washington and Viola Davis, the film delves into themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, ultimately showcasing the intricate nature of familial bonds.