The reason why I enjoy television and film is because in the words of The Incredible Jessica James, I enjoy dialogue-driven dramas that explore the human condition. I also relish learning about different perspectives, behaviors and complexities, and getting a glimpse into different cultures.
I was motivated to pursue production due to the pervasive lack of multidimensional Black characters in film and television. From age 10 onwards there was a growing disconnect in the amount of images I saw that related to me.
I am now beside myself, overcome with joy, at how many new shows are debuting, telling stories of Black women and men that are genuine and chock-full of the range of human emotions we all possess.
These portrayals thankfully go against the stereotypical representations of Black humans in cinema often manifested in a “sassy,” maternal, funny but undesirable Black woman and/or femme, and the overtly sexual, cowardly but strong, shortsighted Black man who serves as comedic relief. They are usually sidekicks if not background characters.
While we had a few television classics in the 90’s such as Family Matters, Living Single, Sister, Sister, and Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the aughts dried up such visual models of everyday Black American life, instead giving birth to the ever-controversial yet addictive “reality TV” genre. I would argue that the docuseries genre spawned a new-age Blaxploitation, particularly as it relates to on-screen portrayals of Black women.
From Insecure to Black Panther, we can finally see lead Black actors within numerous cinematic genres, giving us representation within various storylines and coming from different walks of life. In this blog I will explore the character development, cinematography, and main themes of such series because thoughtful, nuanced entertainment that centers Black humanity matters - Black narratives matter!
Netflix began its foray into producing African originals in South Africa. Since the 2018 announcement of inaugural African original Queen Sono, the streaming giant has continued to expand its catalogue of South African content over the past few years. The content features amazing views of the stunning country, high production quality and auspicious on-screen talent.
Read MoreDisclaimer: none of these shows are Black narratives. They happen to be shows I’m watching at the moment and appeal to my cultural curiosity and wanderlust which have been stifled due to the pandemic.
Read MoreIt all started when I needed something to watch…I was tired of scrolling just to find more annoyingly mainstream movies and shows riddled with the same plots and token fillers. To my surprise, Netflix already had the humble beginnings of an ever-growing Nollywood (Nigerian Hollywood) catalogue.
Read MoreTying together my admiration for quality cinema and cultural study, I love a nuanced international series or movie. They provide a glimpse into a certain culture that I otherwise might not have had. If you enjoy learning about other cultures against the backdrop of a story, see a list of my top five picks!
Read MoreWhile I do not agree with the premise upon which this movie is based, I ultimately do like the array of black characters showcased in the film and the overarching idea that race should not box you in to one particular identity...That said, this film is not a black narrative – it is a commentary on the pitfalls of both black and white cultures.
Read MoreIn the name of diversity and unity of underrepresented groups, I am writing about one of my favorite shows, which features a Latin American female lead. Jane The Virgin is not a black narrative, but I would call it a Latinx one.
Read MoreThis vantage point is so important! When I think of noteworthy shows based in New York City and surrounding love and everyday life, I think Sex and the City, Friends, Seinfeld, Will & Grace…while the representation for white women, white LGBTQ+, and white Jewish people is there, none highlight the Black romantic experience. The city is much too diverse to tell only a select few stories in it.
Read More
