RiffTrax Shorts Season 31 Episode 2 William From Georgia to Harlem

In the second episode of season 31 of RiffTrax Shorts, titled "William From Georgia to Harlem," the team sets their sights on a short film about an African American man named William who relocates from Georgia to Harlem. The film is a product of the early 1960s, produced by a company called The Calvin Company. The film is less than 20 minutes long and purports to showcase the challenges William faces as he navigates the unfamiliar landscape of Harlem, all while trying to find a place to live and a job.

As with all RiffTrax Shorts, the team brings their signature style of comedic commentary to the film, highlighting its more absurd moments and drawing attention to the often-dated attitudes and assumptions of its creators. William's journey is not without its share of challenges and mishaps, and the RiffTrax crew is there to offer their quips and observations as he navigates these obstacles.

One of the themes of the short film that the RiffTrax team latches onto is the portrayal of Harlem as a foreign and dangerous place, despite the fact that it was something of a cultural hub in the 1960s. William is constantly warned about the violence and poverty that supposedly permeates the neighborhood, and his encounters with its residents are often shown as tense or uncomfortable. The RiffTrax team points out the ways in which the filmmakers lean into these stereotypes, portraying Harlem as a forbidding place of darkness and danger.

At the same time, the team also highlights the ways in which William himself is a problematic character. He is portrayed as a naive and somewhat bumbling figure, trying to negotiate the unfamiliar terrain of the big city but often failing in ways that are played for laughs. His interactions with the women he encounters are particularly cringe-worthy, as he comes across as clueless and condescending. The RiffTrax team doesn't hold back in calling out the film's casual sexism and racism, poking fun at the absurdity of some of its more dated attitudes.

Despite the sometimes heavy-handed message of the film, the RiffTrax team manages to find plenty of moments to riff on. Some of the highlights include William's somewhat alarming choice of lodging, the film's oddly repetitive musical score, and the increasingly absurd ways in which William's attempts at finding work are thwarted. They also draw attention to some of the film's more unintentionally hilarious moments, such as an awkward conversation between William and a well-meaning white woman who tries to help him but only ends up making things worse.

As with all RiffTrax Shorts, "William From Georgia to Harlem" is a goofy and irreverent take on a film that might otherwise be forgotten. The team's signature style of playful ribbing and sharp commentary make it a must-watch for fans of B-movie humor, and their willingness to point out the film's more problematic elements adds an interesting layer to the proceedings. Whether you're a die-hard RiffTrax fan or just looking for a good laugh, this episode is sure to deliver.