Ep 2. because of slavery too

In the second episode of #blackAF season 1, titled "Because of Slavery Too," we continue to follow the daily lives of the affluent and honest Barris family. Situated in a luxurious mansion, the family faces various challenges and personal victories, leading to a highly entertaining and candid comedic style reminiscent of Larry David's "Curb Your Enthusiasm."

We begin with Kenya (played by creator and writer, Kenya Barris) getting ready for an important meeting. He, his wife Joya (played by Rashida Jones), and their kids all sit down for breakfast, while Kenya recounts a heated exchange he had with his white colleagues on the set of his new show about slavery. His family members have various reactions to his story, ranging from complete shock at the audacity of his colleagues to not necessarily sharing Kenya's perspective on the situation. It's a scene that does a great job of encapsulating the complex dynamics of race and privilege that the show aims to explore.

As the day progresses, we see Joya struggling to balance her own career aspirations with her role as a mother. At the same time, Kenya tries his best to give his youngest daughter a version of the "Black Talk," which is a conversation that many black parents have with their children regarding the realities of systemic and institutional racism in America. Kenya's attempts at explaining complex issues to a six-year-old lead to a hilarious conversation that illuminates the often-absurd nature of explaining race issues to young children.

Later in the episode, the family head to an exclusive Hollywood premiere event. Kenya's anxiety and unease become increasingly apparent as the family navigates the sea of obsequious industry executives, who are all eager to get on his good side for the sake of their own careers. This leads to a cringingly hilarious scene where various movie executives outdo each other in trying to bond with Kenya over their supposed "love" for hip hop and black culture.

The episode ends with Joya confronting Kenya, expressing her frustration that she has had to put her own career aspirations on hold to take care of the children. Kenya initially brushes off her concerns, but Joya's words eventually sink in, as he confronts his own insecurities about being a successful black man in Hollywood, and what that means in the context of his responsibilities as a husband and father.

Overall, "Because of Slavery Too" is a fantastic second episode that continues to showcase the sharp writing and stellar performances that the show has become known for. It deftly balances humor with heart, while also never shying away from tackling the complex and often uncomfortable issues that come with being black and successful in America.