Jean Elie and Joseph Amin did such a great job with this series. Props to Amin specifically, the way that he delivered his dialogue as this character was stunning. Karen Obilom (who plays the main character's girlfriend), is also a stand out performer in this show. The main character's friends are hilarious too, the dialogue between them is well done. The only reason I didn't rate the show 10/10 is because I wish this season could be a bit longer.
Some highlights in the show are the very simple yet effective ways that it reflects on the immigrant experience. Specifically the experiences of the main character being first generation Haitian American. There are distinct differences between how his immigrant mother, and his younger second generation niece move through the world. Those differences are key to helping to get to know these characters in a fairly short space of time.
The comedy is fantastic, there are several points where the viewer is taken out of a seemingly ordinary to scene, so that they get more of the main character's perspective. These scenes are hyperexaggerated or cartoonish, but still feel close enough to the main subject matter that they do not feel out of place.
I always appreciate a show that has the ability to depict humour, with good comedic timing even where a character is dealing with major trauma. The trauma isn't ignored or downplayed for the sake of the humour, instead it is centred and it is still funny. A show writer's ability to skillfully balance those two things should not be taken lightly in my opinion. I also like how there was time taken out to reflect on how immigrant families from certain backgrounds may struggle to open up about mental issues, or seek help when dealing with symptoms.
The final part I wanted to add, was how I liked how relatable the show was, when it came to depicting how the main character who is between acting jobs, is struggling to get roles in a competitive line of work but is also trying his best to come across as doing well to others. The main character is flawed, but in a way that serves the show well because viewers are on the journey with him.
Some highlights in the show are the very simple yet effective ways that it reflects on the immigrant experience. Specifically the experiences of the main character being first generation Haitian American. There are distinct differences between how his immigrant mother, and his younger second generation niece move through the world. Those differences are key to helping to get to know these characters in a fairly short space of time.
The comedy is fantastic, there are several points where the viewer is taken out of a seemingly ordinary to scene, so that they get more of the main character's perspective. These scenes are hyperexaggerated or cartoonish, but still feel close enough to the main subject matter that they do not feel out of place.
I always appreciate a show that has the ability to depict humour, with good comedic timing even where a character is dealing with major trauma. The trauma isn't ignored or downplayed for the sake of the humour, instead it is centred and it is still funny. A show writer's ability to skillfully balance those two things should not be taken lightly in my opinion. I also like how there was time taken out to reflect on how immigrant families from certain backgrounds may struggle to open up about mental issues, or seek help when dealing with symptoms.
The final part I wanted to add, was how I liked how relatable the show was, when it came to depicting how the main character who is between acting jobs, is struggling to get roles in a competitive line of work but is also trying his best to come across as doing well to others. The main character is flawed, but in a way that serves the show well because viewers are on the journey with him.
