Random Acts Of Flyness Season 1 Episode 2 Episode 2
- TVMA
- August 11, 2018
- 30 min
-
7.7 (63)
In Episode 2 of Random Acts of Flyness, viewers are taken on a journey through a variety of different vignettes that delve into the complexities of black and Afro-diasporic life in America.
The episode begins with a satirical skit about a fictional white actress who has been cast to play Harriet Tubman in a new biopic. The skit pokes fun at the absurdity of Hollywood's casting decisions as the actress undergoes a hilariously inappropriate transformation to look more "authentically" black.
Next, we see a conversation between a black father and his young son about blackness and identity. The father explains to his son both the beauty and the struggles that come with being black in America, and encourages him to embrace his identity and be proud of who he is.
The episode also features an incredibly powerful spoken-word performance by poet and activist Prolific the Poet. Prolific's words are searingly honest and emotional as she tackles issues of police brutality, systemic racism, and the ways in which black bodies are devalued and dehumanized in society.
One of the most visually striking segments of the episode is a stunningly choreographed dance performance by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Against the backdrop of a rapidly gentrifying neighborhood, the dancers move with breathtaking precision and grace, illustrating the displacement that often accompanies urban development and the impact it has on black communities.
Another segment takes an experimental approach, using a combination of animation, live-action footage, and text to explore the various ways in which blackness is represented and commodified in popular culture, while also touching on issues of appropriation and fetishization.
Throughout the episode, there are also several thought-provoking interviews with various black artists and thinkers that touch on a range of topics, from the importance of community and connection to the impact of technology on our lives.
Overall, Episode 2 of Random Acts of Flyness is a beautifully crafted exploration of black life in America that is equal parts poignant and inspiring. It tackles difficult topics with honesty and sensitivity, while also celebrating the resilience and creativity of black communities.