Latest news with #WashingtonBlack
Refinery29
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Refinery29
Washington Black Proves That Black Stories Don't Always Have To Be About Trauma
While there are so many noteworthy stories in film and television that portray Black history realistically — with all its pain, trauma, and suffering — Hulu's newest show Washington Black (based on the novel of the same name) dares to show another side of the coin. While Washington Black recognizes the importance of telling Black stories rooted in trauma and resilience so that we never forget, its true message is that there's also an equal need for historical Black stories filled with joy, hope, and adventure. Delving into the rich history of African settlement in North America, the show weaves a colorful tapestry of how Black culture flourished in Nova Scotia, Canada due to it being the last stop on the Underground Railroad in the late 1800s. The Underground Railroad was the largest anti-slavery movement in America, ferrying thousands of Black fugitives to northern states and Canada so that they could find freedom and build a new life. Washington Black tells the story of what came after. The series recognizes the pain of the time, but it also tells the tale of a hopeful, intelligent, and adventurous young Black man starting a new chapter — one of possibility and uncharted lands. Even today, it's rare to see a show like this featuring a predominantly Black cast. Starring Ernest Kingsley Jr. as the titular character of Washington ('Wash') Black and Sterling K. Brown (executive producer, Academy Award nominee, three-time Emmy winner and newly minted nominee), it takes you alongside Wash's journey as he dares to imagine a future for himself free of the limitations placed upon him by society. At its heart, it's an epic, coming-of-age period piece that creator, showrunner, and executive producer Selwyn Seyfu Hinds, executive producer and showrunner Kimberly Ann Harrison, Kingsley Jr., and Brown discussed further on a Refinery29 x Hulu panel at the show's recent screening event in Los Angeles on July 22. Keep reading for three main takeaways from the panel — and watch Washington Black, now streaming on Hulu. 1. Black stories should celebrate joy as well Sharing stories is a powerful way to heal and Washington Black feels like a breath of fresh air. It recognizes the toll slavery took, while underscoring the breadth of resilience. In the show, Wash was born on a sugar plantation farm in Barbados, but he leaves his past behind to pursue a path of science and invention. 'You have a young man who can see the beauty in things that seem broken to other people,' Kingsley Jr. said. 'He can see the potential, the possibility, and the wonder. It's imbued with so much heart that the team put into it and it was a no brainer [to be part of it].' Wash meets life-changing characters along his journey that change the trajectory of his life. As the viewer, you're able to witness the key stages of his life as he grows into someone enthusiastic about a path that he'd never dreamed of. 'Black folks deserve whimsy, too,' said Brown. 'The idea that all of our stories in American fiction have to focus on trauma or pain is not the only thing that we have to tell. We can come from painful circumstances, but we can transcend those circumstances through the power of imagination, the power of hope, and the power of our joy.' This was a unique project for the creators — a story they were excited to tell because it shined a light on the other side of Black history. 'Reading and seeing this epic adventure, I'd never seen anything through the lens of a young Black boy in this type of scope,' Harrison added. 'That was amazing to me. I look at my own boys and it's something that I can sit down and watch with them. We can dream, discuss, and identify [with the characters]. This opens the door to have discussions.' 2. The themes in Washington Black are universal In the show, Medwin Harris (played by Brown) says, 'The only way Black folks can climb this mountain is if we pull each other along.' Although the series takes place in the past, that statement still rings true more than ever today. According to Hinds, the project was also born from a deep personal connection to the source material. 'I got into the book because I saw my story in Wash,' he said. 'I'm from the Caribbean and on both sides of my family, we've actually traced our roots back to Barbados where the character is from…Between the ages of 14 and 19, I had my own odyssey of different ecosystems and different characters. There was something about Wash's journey that felt really personal. And as any writer knows, you tell a universal story once you find your specific way in.' Growing up, Hinds was drawn to books that were transportive, always featuring a voyage of epic proportions. Because of the universal themes explored during Wash's adventures — resilience, resistance, hope — the show serves as something of an outlet for the Black community, one that can be related to by all. 3. Black history reminds us that we're all connected At a time when Black history is being questioned and banned, it's more important than ever that projects like this exist. Telling Black stories through film and television creates an opportunity for art, but it also powerfully cements our history in a way that can't be erased. 'One of my favorite lines in the show is when Wash says, 'I'm free, you can't take it, even if you kill me,' and that is the truth,' said Hinds. 'That line is about one word, and that's resistance. The show by its existence is an act of resistance and it's an act of history. It's a line in the sand that can't be erased. It's a manifestation of a particular desire that we all had as creators, so in and of itself, it creates history. The fact that a show like that was made by people like this is history. It says we were here, we did that, and they can't take it away.' The show was filmed in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Brown noted that the dialect of the Afro Nova Scotian community was almost identical to Gullah culture, a group descended from enslaved Africans in South Carolina, thus proving the undeniable connection that the Underground Railroad produced. It created a space for Black people to flourish and be free, and keeping this connection alive is what drew Brown to the project. 'The idea that you have to erase us in order to appease other people just seems sort of strange and backwards,' Brown said. 'There's been this separation of, 'We're not like them, they're not like us.' But what I'm legitimately hopeful for is that we start to see the ties that bind, the things that make us common, [and] the things that we share with one another. As a spiritual being, I believe that we are all one…I wanted to show where folks from the islands, folks from the states, and folks from across the pond are able to come together and find solace and peace with one another through connection.' While many of us might not be familiar with these deeper aspects of Black history, the show sets up opportunities for education — an invitation to dive deeper into the connections that have allowed Black culture to flourish today.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Viewers binge 'much-watch' period drama in 'one day'
Fans claim the limited series 'makes for a good couch binge' Disney+ viewers have been hooked by a new period drama hailed as a 'must watch'. Sterling K Brown's Washington Black landed on the streamer on July 23 and has already received overwhelming praise. Set in 19th Century Barbados the eight-part series follows an 11-year-old boy named George Washington 'Wash' Black (portrayed by Ernest Kingsley Jr). After witnessing a gruesome death, George is forced to flee his home on a sugar plantation, leading him on a wild adventure around the globe. Based on Esi Edugyan's novel of the same name, the limited series sees George taken under the wing of Medwin Harris (played by Brown), who similarly had a traumatic upbringing in Nova Scotia. The cast also features Lucifer star Tom Ellis in the role of George's companion Christopher 'Titch' Wilde. At its core, the drama delves into hefty themes such as the quest for freedom in the midst of slavery. After just a few days on Disney+, Washington Black has already bagged an impressive 88% Rotten Tomatoes score, with audiences awarding it a less generous 60% rating. Critics on the site rave about the new period piece, stating: "An adventure yarn bolstered by weighty themes, Washington Black brings Esi Edugyan's acclaimed novel to life with a terrific ensemble and striking production design." Meanwhile, FandomWire praised in their review: "The wanderlust world of faith, hope, and trust is explored in such a beautiful and impactful way with gorgeous set pieces, costumes, and visuals, making Washington Black a must-watch." Casual viewers have been left equally impressed, with many taking to social media to share glowing reviews. "Yo #WashingtonBlack is pretty d**n good. Really well acted and excellently paced. Whimsical, charming, suspenseful. It's all the things that make for a good couch binge," praised an X, formerly Twitter, user. A second echoed the praise: "Binged the whole thing in one day loved it," with a third posting: "Hey! So #WashingtonBlack is a 10/10 series as I've spent my entire day binge watching it. #SterlingKBrown is a genius." Yet another viewer raved on IMDb: "I hadn't heard much about Washington Black before watching, but after just one episode, I'm completely hooked. "The story is gripping, the visuals are stunning, and the acting is top-tier. Seeing some of my favourite actors like Sterling K. Brown and Tom Ellis in the cast makes it even better. I can't wait to see where this journey goes!"
India Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Washington Black review: A well-crafted show on racism, dreamers and science
George Washington 'Wash' Black, a young enslaved boy turned fugitive inventor, is on a roller-coaster journey from a brutal Barbados plantation to an independent lifestyle. The heart of the drama series 'Washington Black' is young Wash's transformation from a curious child to a brilliant, self-determined show, adapted from Esi Edugyan's novel of the same name, is a vibrant, ambitious tale about those who dare to dream irrespective of overwhelming obstacles. Creator Selwyn Seyfu Hinds metaphorically makes a commentary on human connection, sense of community and solidarity in a world driven by chaos, toxicity, cruelty and Karanja and Ernest Kingsley Jr as young and adult Washington Black, respectively, lead the show with their impeccable acting prowess. 'Washington Black' is not just another series about the evils of slavery and imperialism. Hinds makes a larger statement about emotional freedom, mental liberation, friendship and closure. The actors on-board have done a commendable job by performing in sync with the creators' vision. A story that comes from a hard-hitting theme can often label the characters as good and evil, us vs them. However, the show never deviates from the human lens and brings out the vulnerable side of the most morally complex characters. The series is presented through non-linear storytelling in a unique way while retaining the engagement quotient. Its narrative has a profound universal connection which makes it open to different interpretations. While the show is slightly a bit over-stretched to unravel all the aspects related to the novel, certain repetitive scenes and situations could have been edited. However, 'Washington Black' still remains a thoroughly engaging show about human resilience which feels relatable to millennials as well as Gen Zs. It is a story meant for those searching for answers about life's complexities while facing everyday challenges and obstacles.A tale of the endearing human spiritRacial discrimination and slavery are no new themes to art and literature, yet worth exploring. In a progressive society rooting for scientific and social advancement, it is essential to debate and discuss the events that scarred humanity in the past. 'Washington Black' does the same in its own way without getting preachy. As an Indian viewer and an inquisitive student of politics and history, you are reminded of British colonialism and American expansionism. But what more it does cinematically to make the audience realise, not to take privilege for granted.'Washington Black' makes one believe in the strength of positivity and optimism amid all the hate and negativity making the noise. Wash's relationships with Medwin (Sterling K Brown), Miss Angie (Sharon Duncan-Brewster) and his intimate romance with Tanna (Iola Evans) is a testament to the sentiment of love and compassion that goes beyond community and gender. The show not just honours the struggles of the protagonist but also his human desires and and Kinglsey Jr delve deep into the psyche of Wash, which helps in elevating the character development throughout the series. Even though the show is based on one individual's journey, the other characters are given equal space and importance. Brown and Brewster add to the emotional weight through their grounded portrayals. Evans doesn't just end up as a love interest but succeeds in bringing a new perspective to the narrative. Tom Ellis as Christopher 'Titch' Wilde also plays his role with the utmost issue of women being caged and not allowed to pursue careers in order to get married has been done to death. Yet, Evans brings an impactful screen presence while depicting the emotional struggles of a young girl wanting to be free. Hinds smartly crafts a narrative where he connects all the dots. The audience get the message about how we are all riding the same boat, trying to be free of the shackles set by trailer here: More than emotions and social commentaryTo someone inspired by great minds like Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Martin Luther King Jr, 'Washington Black' would have a deep impact. We have had great cinema on racial themes, like '12 Years a Slave', 'The Great Debaters' and 'One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest'. However, Hinds in his show creates stunning visuals and an enriching narrative by blending the adventurous theme with science. Without any monologues, the viewers get the most beautiful message about how science and creativity can lead to the most unexpected partnerships and society treats science and the arts as opposing disciplines, but young Wash, who excels in his scientific studies and sketching, sets a beautiful example. A young boy who studies and dreams despite all the hardships reminds one of the struggles of Dr Kalam and Dr BR Ambedkar. The ability to prove one's worth in a world that is hell-bent on crushing your dreams is what makes a great success story on rising from lines stay with you, such as, "No matter how strong the bondage, we never stop pushing back. We fight," and the scientific spirit of "Observe, record and engineer." If only the world was inclined towards discovering scientific mysteries and creating artistic brilliance, there would be no room for infighting or toxicity. A beautiful message that 'Washington Black' narrates through eight episodes.'Washington Black' is meant for all those who like to experience a roller-coaster of emotions. The Hulu series is available for streaming on JioHotstar in India.- Ends4 out of 5 stars
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Washington Black' Release Schedule: Are More Episodes on the Way?
And who all stars in the adventure-driven period drama? 'Washington Black,' Hulu's action-packed odyssey that's based on Esi Edugyan's fictional 2018 novel of the same name, has officially landed. And we have all the details about how to tune in. The limited series, which follows a young, Black inventor's journey through self-discovery, is executive produced by Selwyn Seyfu Hinds, Kimberly Ann Harrison, and Sterling K. Brown. Seyfu and Harrison also serve as the series's showrunners More from TheWrap 'Washington Black' Release Schedule: Are More Episodes on the Way? 8 Major Times Dexter Broke Harry's Kill Code | Photos Larry Ellison to Hold 35.5% of Family's Voting Rights in New Paramount, National Amusements After Skydance Merger Closes David Letterman Roasts CBS, David Ellison Over Colbert Cancellation: 'Go Buy Dairy Queen or Something' | Video TheWrap previously reported the news about the show's production back in 2021. Check out the how to watch details below. When does 'Washington Black' premiere? 'Washington Black' premiered on Hulu on July 23. How many episodes are there? There are eight episodes in the 'Washington Black' miniseries, and all of them landed on Hulu when the show premiered on July 23. Are more episodes on the way? 'Washington Black' followed the binge-release model, so all episodes are now available — and it's a limited series so no new episodes are currently planned. What is 'Washington Black' about? 'Washington Black' follows the 19th-century adventures of George Washington 'Wash' Black – an 11-year-old boy on a Barbados sugar plantation who must flee after a shocking death threatens to upend his life. Brown will play the gregarious, larger-than-life Medwin Harris, who traveled the world after a traumatic childhood as a Black refugee in Nova Scotia as the de facto Mayor of Black Halifax prioritizes the community over everything except Washington Black, his young protégé. Meeting Wash sends him down a challenging path of self-discovery. And as the barricades around his heart start to fall, Medwin will learn to dream again. Who's in the cast? The series stars Ernest Kingsley Jr., Rupert Graves, Iola Evans, Edward Bluemel, Sharon Duncan-Brewster, Eddie Karanja, Tom Ellis and Sterling K. Brown. Watch the trailer The post 'Washington Black' Release Schedule: Are More Episodes on the Way? appeared first on TheWrap.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Ernest Kingsley Jr. Praises ‘Washington Black' Costar Sterling K. Brown's Offscreen ‘Mentorship'
Ernest Kingsley Jr. is grateful that Hulu's Washington Black offered him the chance not only to share the screen with Sterling K. Brown — but to be mentored by him as well. During an exclusive interview, Us Weekly mentioned to Brown, 49, how much his costars praised him for the support he provided on set. Kingsley Jr., for his part, shared his own experience getting to work with Brown after admiring his work. "First of all, I feel like I kind of dragged Sterling into being a mentor. I just kind of asked him so many questions, like, 'Hey man, how are you doing? It's 1:00 a.m. but I need your help,'" Kingsley Jr., who plays adult Wash, joked to Us while discussing the show, which premiered on Wednesday, July 23. "It was natural, to be honest. It was naturally built." Kingsley Jr. pointed out how Brown "operates with vulnerability in such a powerful way," adding, "Sterling operates with a sense of power, and he encourages and incites it in you. It is this sense of, if you open up to that [kind of vulnerability yourself] then it will be held and cared for and loved. I feel like he spread that out across multiple cast members and across the crew." What to Know About Sterling K. Brown's 'Washington Black': From Cast Details to Book Connections He continued: "Just his presence was a mentorship and getting to see him every day. It was a blessing and a gift to have him on set. Also, just to have him in my life. Now he can't get rid of me." Brown, meanwhile, attempted to play off the praise, quipping, "I paid them all. That's really the bottom line of the whole thing. I walked their dogs when they needed me to. I do special favors so they say nice things about him." Based on Us' other interviews with the Washington Black cast, the confidence in Brown as a costar and executive producer was universal. Iola Evans recalled how Brown was "very generous with his time and energy" on set. "For someone who's got a lot on his plate to be very, very open and who encourages openness, that is really nice for actors and was always very, very positive," she shared. "He really leads with positivity and on a set. When you're on really long days, I think energy is really important. So you are really grateful to have someone who's a really great spirit." Edward Bluemel felt the same way. "There was an aura of safety around him and of confidence. He's so experienced and obviously so well known," Bluemel, 32, noted."But he's ultimately incredibly positive and kind. When you're at the top of a production like that, I think having that attitude really rubs off on everyone around you." Based on Esi Edugyan's novel of the same name, Washington Blake partnered Brown up with Selwyn Seyfu Hinds on a TV adaptation following George Washington Black (Eddie Karanja and Kingsley Jr.) through past and present timelines as he is raised under the shadow of slavery before catching the attention of the sugar plantation owner's brother. A young Washington is recruited to help the owner's brother, leading to an adventure around the world. Washington in present day goes by Wash and lives in Nova Scotia, where he is taken under the wing of town leader Medwin Harris (Brown). "Sterling is an amazing actor. He's an amazing producer as well. He knows how to get the best performance out of an actor. Him being an actor himself and him being at such a high level really helped to elevate us performance wise a lot," Karanja, 16, gushed to Us. "Sterling taught me to take my time as an actor. There's no rush if you don't need to think about getting it perfect. Sterling is a very zen guy. I really did get that vibe from him — and it's infectious." TV Shows Based on Best-Selling Books: From 'Big Little Lies' to 'The Handmaid's Tale' In addition to expanding Medwin's role in the show to allow Us to spend more time with Brown, Washington Black also highlighted Kingsley Jr.'s breakout performance. The actor's scene-stealing presence as adult Wash allowed him to elevate material he was very passionate about. "The book sets an amazing foundation for the creativity and the hero's journey. Where the show leads on from that is you have a much more explorative, innocent and fantastical element to the show. It kind of builds upon what's already been put down in the book," he teased to Us. "It's epic, it's wondrous and you definitely get to see more characters fleshed out as well. You get to really see character relationships develop more and how those characters influence Wash's life and his journey to seek that life of freedom." Kingsley Jr. is thrilled that audiences are finally getting to see Washington Black. "There were definitely times where I was in my room thinking, 'Man, when is this show going to come out?' But I'm also overwhelmed with gratitude and just the excitement of introducing this project to the world," he added. "So many hands were poured into this and so many passions are poured into this. Just being able to see that work and take pride in it, this is a huge thing for me." Washington Black is currently streaming on Hulu. Solve the daily Crossword
