The Newbie
I recently discovered the series Not Safe for Work whilst
reading an article. I soon found myself spending too much time trying to figure
out how to change my IP address so I could watch the series on the Channel 4
website. Once I found a site, I binged-watched all six episodes of the workplace
comedy/drama. Zawe Ashton stars as Katherine, a very put together bureaucrat whose
life never got the notice. Her world is crumbling as she is demoted to a facility
that is doing the same. Her coworkers also have demons that they deal with in
perfect comedic timing and with equal parts angst. It is written by a white man
but stars a Black woman: so it makes the list!
The Darling
Have you ever watched a British show with a Black lead? Who
was a woman? And she was of darker hue? And there was another lead actor of
Color, that also had dark skin? No? Some Girls aired on BBC3 nearly four
years ago to much acclaim. Viva (Adelayo Adeyayo) is a straight-laced
schoolgirl living on an estate with her father, brother and her soccer coach
who doubles as her father’s live-in girlfriend. She has an amazing group of
friends: Amber, Holli, and Saz. They are coarse, frank and everything good in
this world. Watch Some Girls if you love friendship and girl power. The show has
three series and its current status is unknown.
The Standout
Sometimes the most unexpected thing can be exactly what you
are looking for. Ackee and Saltfish is something that is inventive and
completely necessary in today’s climate. Black girls seem to be low on
everyone’s list and pigeonholed into certain stereotypes : - sassy, ghetto,
angry and uncultured. Cecile Emeke must have not gotten the industry’s memo.
She wrote and directed a short film and webseries both titled Ackee and Saltfish. Her work centers on
two dynamic Black characters that defy stereotypes at every turn. Olivia and
Rachel are young women experiencing life in England and engaging in some pretty
philosophical debates. It is lighthearted and fun, another testament to youth and
friendship. Star Vanessa Babirye
recently alluded to a second season approaching on her Twitter
account.
The Oldie But Goodie
Love/Hate
Ruth Negga is the greatest thing that ever came out of
Ireland. She is a talented actress of both television and stage and she stars
in the first two seasons of Love/Hate.
As the only person of color on this gritty Irish series, her performance and
storyline are so striking that you can’t pass it over. Negga’s Rosie is the
lost love of main character Darren. It is hard to believe such a great love
story could develop in such a violent show. Check out this scene of the
star-crossed lovers.
The Instant Classic
Beyond the Lights
I can find a way to work my favorite movie into any
conversation. Beyond the Lights stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw as a mixed raced girl
who emigrates from London to America to pursue fame. She is on the cusp of
success when her mental state diminishes due to dehumanizing situations and
soulless pursuits. Filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood tells an immigrant story,
love story, and a journey to wellness story seamlessly. Now streaming on
Netflix, iTunes and GooglePlay.
The Hidden Gem
This is a male-centered short film produced by actor Aml
Ameen. It is housed on YouTube and depicts a night in the life of a likeable
fellow who just wants the girl. It is full of hijinks and energy; the classic
coming of age tale of a Black British teen you’ve probably never thought was
out there.
H.R Belser is a freelance writer and quirk aficionado. Narratives about love and comedy are her favorites but she longs to see racial diversity in all media. If you are looking for her, she is currently working on her first web series or tweeting a zinger. Follow her on twitter @unicorinkk.
H.R Belser is a freelance writer and quirk aficionado. Narratives about love and comedy are her favorites but she longs to see racial diversity in all media. If you are looking for her, she is currently working on her first web series or tweeting a zinger. Follow her on twitter @unicorinkk.
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