Ep 1. Identity

The New Negroes season 1 episode 1 titled "Identity" is a comedy series that explores contemporary African American identity and culture through the lens of stand-up comedy. Comedians Baron Vaughn and Open Mike Eagle host this show where they invite different comedians to perform on stage and discuss topics ranging from race and politics to the everyday experiences of African Americas in America.

In this episode, Baron Vaughn kicks off the show with a humorous introduction about his own identity crisis, born to a white mother and a Black father, and how he navigated through the complexities of growing up in a biracial family. The audience is introduced to Open Mike Eagle, who co-hosts the show with Vaughn for the first time, as they delve into the heart of the show's theme: identity.

Through a series of sketches and performances by the comedians, the episode explores identity, posing questions such as "What does it mean to be African American?", "What are the common stereotypes and misconceptions that perpetuate in society?", and "How does one define oneself in a society that is always trying to label and categorize?"

The show's comic relief is provided by the comedians who perform on stage, including Nore Davis, Sasheer Zamata, and Dulce Sloan, who share their own personal experiences of growing up as African Americans and how they forged their identities in a world that often seeks to pigeonhole them. Nore Davis, for instance, cracks jokes about his name, which he says sounds like a medical condition, while Sasheer Zamata humorously addresses the assumptions people make based on her appearance and how she challenges stereotypes. Dulce Sloan, on the other hand, mocks news coverage of the Black Lives Matter movement and how it perpetuates stereotypes about African Americans.

In addition to the performances, the show also features in-depth interviews with the comedians, who shed more light on their experiences of navigating through issues of identity and race. The interviews explore the challenges and conflicts that arise while navigating life as a Black person in contemporary society.

The show pokes fun at some of the serious issues surrounding the African American identity, such as racism, stereotyping, and oppression, but it does so in a respectful and insightful way, attempting to offer new perspectives and spark meaningful conversations. The show's approach is refreshing, as it avoids divisive language and seeks out common ground while still highlighting the experiences that make African American culture unique.

The show's production values are top-notch, with vibrant and colorful sets that create a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. The performances and interviews are well shot, with a focus on the comedians and their words, which allows the viewer to tune into the message being conveyed without any distractions.

Overall, The New Negroes season 1 episode 1 titled "Identity" is a brilliant start to the series. It offers a fresh and insightful look at contemporary African American identity in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The show's ability to tackle serious issues with humor and wit is a welcome addition to the conversation surrounding race and identity, and makes it a must-watch for anyone looking to engage with these important topics.