Ep 1. F*ck The Police

Tales is an American anthology television series that showcases classic and contemporary hip-hop artists in unique, standalone episodes. The first season features eight different episodes, each inspired by popular hip-hop songs, including "F*ck The Police" by N.W.A, which is the subject of the first episode.

"F*ck The Police," the opening episode of Tales season 1, is a riveting exploration of the ongoing tension between law enforcement and the African American community. The episode is directed by the legendary filmmaker Allen Hughes (Menace II Society, The Book of Eli) and written by the critically acclaimed screenwriter/producer/showrunner Cheo Hodari Coker (Luke Cage, Notorious).

The episode chronicles the story of two young African American men, Kendrick (Rotimi) and Jay (McKinley Freeman), who are pulled over by police officers for a routine traffic stop. What starts as a typical interaction between the two parties quickly devolves into a harrowing confrontation that exposes the systemic racism and brutality of the police force.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are plunged into the world of Kendrick and Jay, who are portrayed as ordinary, law-abiding citizens. They are college graduates and entrepreneurs, but upon encountering the police, they are subjected to harsh scrutiny and insinuations of criminal activity. The two men are forced to endure racist taunts, illegal searches, and physical violence at the hands of the officers.

The episode is provocative and unapologetic, taking an unflinching look at the ways in which African Americans are systematically marginalized by the police and criminal justice system. The world of "F*ck The Police" is a raw and violent one, but it is also one that is all too familiar to many people living in urban communities across the US.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to shots of N.W.A's original music video, which adds an extra layer of context and weight to the story. The lyrics of the song, which was released in 1988, ring eerily true in today's society, particularly in light of the recent wave of police shootings of unarmed black men. The episode is a stark reminder of how far society has come, and how far it still has to go in terms of creating a more just and equitable society for all.

In addition to its compelling storytelling and social commentary, "F*ck The Police" also boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Rotimi (Power, Divergent series), McKinley Freeman (Hit the Floor, Days of Our Lives), and James McMannus (Gotham, Z: The Beginning of Everything). The performances are nuanced and powerful, and the chemistry between the actors is palpable.

Overall, "F*ck The Police" is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking episode of television. It tackles important issues of race and policing head-on, and does not shy away from the uncomfortable truths of our society. It is an excellent start to the first season of Tales, and sets the stage for the powerful stories to come.