Regarding Janine and Gregory on ‘Abbott Elementary,’ A Period Meant An Ellipsis

 

The steamiest sequence of events ever witnessed on a TV sitcom.

“Last night was all a dream,” they say. 

In a season of breakups— Melissa and Gary, Jacob and Zach, and Mr. Morton and his mysterious wife— we needed light at the end of the tunnel, something to sink our teeth into before the summer interlude. 

And Abbott Elementary more than provided.

Some Janine Teagues and Gregory Eddie lovers held their breaths throughout Party— the season three finale— waiting for the inevitable “will they” slow burn to build into full blown ignition. Despite Gregory putting a period on them in the February premiere, the man continued giving Janine those yearning, come hither looks that more symbolized “to be continued” rather than “putting a stopper on things.” 

Thus, that period was perhaps a series of dots otherwise known as an ellipsis— an intentional omission. Gregory tried oppressing feelings that would never go away even when the object of his affection worked elsewhere. 

“Did you smoke last night? It didn’t seem like you did,” Gregory (Tyler James Williams) to Janine (Quinta Brunson) in Smoking, written by Jordan Temple, directed by Randall Einhorn. DP: Michael J. Pepin.

First, a recap of the leading events that transpired throughout the fourteen episode season. When foolish Gregory shot Janine down and she took the district fellowship, he believed he was the reason. They cleared the air in his classroom and the tension was eased— or so it seemed. Meanwhile, Janine moved her hair part in the center, sported impeccable makeup, and switched up her wardrobe, glowing up beautifully in smart suit sets, form fitting dresses, and glamorous heels. 

Still, Janine continued popping up at Abbott and shared minute moments with her infatuation and former work family. In Smoking, Gregory (and everyone else) was shocked to learn Janine smoked weed every night, in Willard J. Abbott, they burned the midnight oil in her office together (alongside original wingman/Teddie shipper Jacob), in Librarian, they bonded over the beneficial program with Gregory advising Janine on putting her foot down with her beloved mentor Barbara. Throughout these short yet memorable segments, this undeniable crackling spilled between their kindred friendship, proving that even if platonic, Janine and Gregory crafted a natural, chemistry-fueled rapport.

Janine and Gregory are left alone, laughing during research mode in Willard R. Abbott, written by Ava Coleman (the writer not the character) and directed by Matt Sohn. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

Janine and Gregory attempt to adjust the vintage picture of Black teachers at Abbott until a hilarious Mr. Johnson puts a stop to them taking over his job. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

“Keep reading,” Gregory says to Janine on Barbara’s review of the new program initiative in Librarian, written by Morgan Murphy and directed by Karan Soni. DP: Michael J. Pepin.
  

Janine and Gregory proved to be a good professional team despite it being unprofessional to show up to a student’s house in Alex, written by Kate Peterman and directed by Claire Scanlon. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

Although it looked as though Janine would permanently stay in her new gig— the two dollar raise and smile-happy co-workers hyping her ideas no matter how wild or impossible would tempt anyone— a visit to absentee student’s house in Alex with Gregory reconfirmed her second grade teacher spirit. Abbott was Janine’s special place, her students were her treasures. So, in the end, she could not forsake them, proving her selflessness— a commendable trait to have in her profession. 

A horribly unhinged Gregory plays twenty cringy questions with Janine, Manny, Erika, and Tariq whilst drinking beer with both hands in Double Date, written by Garrett Werner and directed by Razan Ghalayini. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

A gorgeous Janine is unphased by Gregory’s obvious jealousy. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

In Ava 2 Ava Fest, Gregory gave Janine a plant that comes to full bloom in the finale— but before Party, the predecessor Smith Playgound granted precious Janine and Gregory moments galore in order for us to forget Gregory’s extreme awkwardness (that gave us secondhand embarrassment) in Double Date. 

Janine sits next to Gregory for the first time on a school bus field trip in Smith Playground, written by Riley Duffurena and directed by Richie Edelson. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

They share their favorite colors while swinging— Gregory’s is green and Janine’s is blue. In an earlier adorable scene, Janine pushes Gregory. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

While two schools fight over a slide turn, Janine and Gregory secretly find some joy of their own— via that very slide. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

At last, in Party, Cupid’s bow-tipped dominos are lined up, ready to align. Janine plans every inch of her cute, three-hundred square feet apartment to a T aiming for an epic end-of-the-school-year celebration, compartmentalizing activities for varying personalities, accounting for the socially awkward. Even Zach—Jacob’s ex and Mr. Morton are invited. Naturally, Ava has to be paid prior to attend such an occasion. Gregory arrives, complimenting the maxi dress wearing beauty and the eye games begin. 

Even Mr. Johnson gives Janine solid advice— “regrets are harder to live with than consequences.”

Among stringed lights and a plush, hot pink bedroom, Gregory and Janine congratulate each other’s growth while sitting on her bed in Party, written by Chad Morton and Rebekka Pesquiela and directed by Randall Einhorn. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

Janine and Gregory’s final season three interaction deserves a delicious breakdown— it was just that good. 

On the street corner, Erika and Jacob hype up Gregory, the cowardly lion too far removed from Oz aka Janine’s apartment. Backed by their encouragement, considerably pleased by the fact that Janine has turned Manny down, Gregory heads back to Janine’s. Janine mopes around, cleaning up, admitting to the camera crew that she likes Gregory, that she had been planning all night to do so. A familiar knock— Gregory’s classroom knock— sounds at Janine’s door. When she answers it, he stands on the stoop, saying he fixed her light— a subtle nod to season one’s Light Bulb. He reenters her spot, his walk determined, purposeful, the camera angles shift unexpectedly. 

Janine with the plant that Gregory gave her. She brought it from the classroom to her home— and Gregory would soon be joining the plant as well. Perfect setup. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

The lighting was absolute perfection the entire episode, setting the right tones at the right moments. This here embodied romance. DP: Michael J. Pepin. 

At this point, no words are necessary. 

Gregory’s lips swoop down on an anticipatory Janine’s, letting us cry anew at that height difference. The kiss begins a hot, heavy make out session speaking sensuous volumes. These two beautiful Black nerds had been wanting to do that forever— sober and unafraid. The scene grows juicier as mid-kissing, Gregory one-handedly shuts Janine’s door, hoping to give them privacy to explore this newer, intimate territory sans an audience. They resume to finish what has started—swoon-worthy smooches. Until the window blinds are tugged down by a sly Gregory. He gives a distinctive “do not disturb this groove” look, implying that this is the period he really intended— a period of one on one with Janine. 

Amen and cheers to that. 

During a summer where everyone will be talking about Bridgerton season three, the rest of us will still be wrapping our heads and hearts around the shockingly scandalous time that Gregory stole the air out of Janine’s lungs, a poor girl already prone to breathing hard. 

Another ‘Abbott Elementary’ Couple Bites The Dust In An Unexpected Way

 

Jacob and Zach during happier times in season one’s Zoo Balloon.

Abbott Elementary’s Zach and Jacob delivered another heartbreak on our beloved comedy. The season three premiere previously showed Melissa dumping her boyfriend Gary, the vending machine guy while Gregory put an abrupt period on whatever could have been between him and Janine. Plus, Janine has temporarily left her treasured second grade classroom for a fellowship office at the school district. Since January, it seemed the audience emerged straight into a Philadelphia cold front.

Everyone shifted. Nothing was the same.

Offhandedly, Janine did reveal that she spent her summer with Jacob and Erika. So, where did that leave Zach if not hanging out with his boyfriend and his crust eating queen?

In Break Up, the fifth episode written by Brittani Nichols (Student Transfer, Ava Vs. Superintendent, Fundraiser, Principal’s Office, and Franklin Institute), Zach and Jacob hit a major snag. Instead of expressing his thoughts out loud ala that memorable “outgrowing a person” advice that he gave to Janine in season one’s Work Family, Jacob sets up passive aggressive tactics that would make anyone go insane. So yes, Zach was righteously angry. An intentional Jacob pushed Zach’s buttons— and those overdramatic gasps.... just amazingly conveyed. 

A teary Zach (Larry Owens) agrees that a breakup may be the right thing to do for him and Jacob (Chris Perfetti) in Break Up. DP: Michael J. Pepin.

When Zach realizes that Jacob has been manipulating the situation, a furious Zach snatches off any edges Jacob may have had. In that passionate, insult-filled spiel, Jacob probably realized he shouldn’t have bragged about his successful schemes. Zach releases “the kraken” and spills so much tea that you wonder how Jacob withstood the heat— and this is before teaching his class too. Damn.  

“And you held our team BACK at trivia night!” Zach snarls, emphasizing back with intentional zing.

If you remember in Desking, season one’s eleventh episode, Zach discloses that they came in third place, Jacob adding that it was due to a technicality. 

Zach looks back at Jacob one last time and departs on a singsong “oh my god.” Laughter comes gushing out uncontrollably. That was, hands down, the most funniest breakup ever witnessed. Not a dry eye in the house. While Melissa and Gary were sad yet amicable and Gregory and Janine crushed shipper spirits, Zach made history by going another route altogether. He was in pain, but wanted to make Jacob feel it too, and you had to respect it. 

Still, queer breakups are as tragic as the BYG trope, especially considering that there is so little evidence on network television at present. Streaming services showcase LGBTQIA+ relationships more— and in braver ways. Zach and Jacob appeared more buddy roommates than lovers. Several episodes showcased their major differences— Jacob being anti-holidays and carols while Zach loved singing and preferred people on-key. They always hugged. Never kissed. At least Zach and Jacob had sneakers in common— the thing that brought them together— and Jacob gushed about Zach in that cutesy, fanboy way whenever possible. Also, they loved mythology, Zach referencing the kraken sea monster and Jacob always bringing up Icarus, who flew close to the sun. These two are still in their twenties, the age of constant learning and growing, entering and leaving relationships, building themselves up and maturing in all facets of life. Maybe they can come back someday. Who knows? It’s fascinating to watch Jacob and Zach navigate the contemporary dating scene— even if we don’t get to see Zach’s journey onscreen. Jacob has Gregory and Janine. Together they’re a trio of singles becoming closer than ever. 

Overall, Abbott Elementary’s impressive ensemble kills it every week— guest stars of LGBTQIA+ community included. Sabrina Wu, the eccentric K-pop loving scene stealer of Adele Lim’s raunchy feature-length debut Joy Ride was Janine’s sub teacher of the week, Cassidy Geoffrey. The incredible Larry Owens, Zach’s portrayer who’s won major theater awards galore, must return. He could be a temporary choir teacher pretending not to harbor jealousy over Jacob’s dating “success” stories or just a raucous uncle chaperoning his nephew to eighth grade. Regular Chris Perfetti, our resident Mr. C, remains a wonderful gifted performer, nailing every beat of Jacob’s trials and tribulations.

Now with another couple’s recent demise, is Barbara and Gerald or Ava and Iggie [snorts] safe?

‘Abbott Elementary,’ Best Show of the Year

 

Abbott Elementary season two advertisement.

“Janine— as teachers at a school like Abbott, we have to be able to do it all. We are admin. We are social workers. We are therapists. We are second parents. Hell, sometimes we’re even first. Why? It sho ain’t the money.”— Barbara Howard, kindergarten teacher brilliantly played by Sheryl Lee Ralph.

Abbott Elementary is the binge-worthy mockumentary comedy we have been waiting forever on. Every episode has moments delivers laughter and tears thanks to commendable writing and superb acting. 

Everyone had to have a teacher (or principal) that dressed like Janine (Quinta Brunson). Thanks to series costume designer Susan Michalek for crafting that reality. 

The environment at Abbott is not always perfect. They struggle on with old books and limited equipment: expected results of the dwindling public school system that has hurt and hindered a lot of us. The determined Janine Teagues, a too-delightful, competitive spirited second grade teacher, tries to make it as fun and exhilarating as possible. Barbara Howard, the warm, soothing kindergarten teacher with a mean bite and her best bud Melissa Schemetti, the other second grade teacher (and often Janine’s playful nemesis), often side against Janine. Thankfully, Janine does have friends in eighth grade teacher Jacob Hill and newcomer Gregory Eddy, a tight circle that nudges our perky, thrifty fashioned girl in the right direction. 

Jacob, the white do-gooder who traveled throughout Africa, may seem an ill fit to this tight team due to his lengthy rants and desire to be more proactive in civil rights. He often adds the amped up fuel to Janine’s well-meaning schemes, showing to be one of her biggest supporters/allies. Also boyfriend Zac, a lover of sneakers just like Jacob, is simply amazing— funny, gifted vocalist, awesome one-liner delivery! Although Jacob has a hard time zipping his lip, he does sprout insight every once in a while. 

The polar opposite of Janine, Principal Ava (Janelle James) is an iconic fashionista with a style that steals the show episode after episode. 

Principal Ava Coleman, however, operates on various noticeable fronts. In the beginning, she seemed too invested in promoting her image, mainly on social media tools like Tik Tok and Poshmark, building her brand versus helping Abbott in any structural way. She even used emergency funds to have a billboard of her stylish self posted in front of the school and buy new wavy hair instead of purchasing desperately needed rugs for the classrooms. Heck, her green screen office is the primary spot to take incredible videos and seller pictures of her brand name merchandise. She even has her own gaudy bathroom installed in the school basement. Yet, Ava has also taken extreme action under circumstances that would overwhelm even the strongest person. She managed to give a compelling speech on being principal in front of the very person she blackmailed to get the job. She successfully substituted sick Janine’s class— funny considering that Gregory, the former substitute fit for the principal role advised Ava on the importance of using Janine’s folder and that Janine is out because Ava left her sandwich out in the window. Who could forget Ava transforming Janine into the Black Marilyn Monroe (or Dorothy Dandridge) for a Halloween party or giving Janine a lift to another club job with her friends during holiday break? 

When Janine (Quinta Brunson) encouraged Gregory (Tyler James Williams) to add personality to his bare classroom walls, it seemed an open metaphor to shift beyond substitution, for permanence, to make a lasting effort on both the students and perhaps Janine’s heart. 

Janine and Gregory’s potential has been simmering from their very first meeting. Janine—the girl next door— frequently visits Gregory’s nearby classroom and vice versa for either old-fashioned good advice or polite small talk riddled in cartoon hearts. Although not usually a big fan of TV office romances (this Collider article is a good one), something about these two makes it impossible not to root for them going the distance. They share common ground. Gregory, a Black man with an overbearing military father, shares his vulnerabilities to Janine, who has an absent mother and an inner lonely girl syndrome beneath her exterior bubbliness and “toxic positivity.” Yet, Gregory knows every facet about Janine, which makes them all the more endearing, considering that most men fail to pay attention and care. Unlike Janine’s selfish, narcissistic, first and so-far only boyfriend Tarik, Gregory knew her favorite film was Jumanji, noticed her hair parted on the other side, and rescued her from countless mishaps on many occasions. While the advantageous Tarik had a kid spirit about him feeding into Janine’s childlike disposition, Gregory has a mature, sensible vibe that would definitely aide in ensuring Janine’s growth. Janine and Gregory provide an alluring adventure, that’s for certain. Maybe, just maybe too, in the future, Gregory may join his father’s landscape company after all and Janine can remain Abbott’s Most Affectionate Second Grade Teacher. 

In addition to phenomenal writing (thanks to a very inclusive staff) and impeccable direction, Abbott Elementary must be applauded for showcasing diverse body types. There’s still an over abundance of thinness and whiteness celebrated and awarded in both television and film industry. Thus, it is a nice change to see tall and short, curvy and robust figures in leading and supporting roles— a beautiful reflection of the world we actually live in. It’s even noticeable with the interesting side characters— Zac, Jacob’s bespectacled boyfriend, Janine’s new friend Erika (played by Courtney Taylor recently Issa’s assistant on Insecure), and Ashley, Melissa’s annoyingly tone-death assistant.  

Abbott Elementary cast at the Golden Globes, winning for Best Actress in a Comedy Series for Quinta Brunson, Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for Tyler James Williams, and Best Comedy Series.

The excellent cast is led by its infectious dimpled creator Quinta Brunson— second Black woman (after Lena Waithe) to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series. Fellow Emmy winner Sheryl Lee Ralph— always a charming, warm spirit— delights as church praising Barbara, who often funnily confuses white and Black actors and wears the best red lipsticks. Tyler James Williams—a versatile talent who ranges from comedic chops on Everybody Hates Chris to drama/horror in Dear White People and The Walking Dead (his death scene remains one of the most gruesome)— shines bright as Gregory, the former ambitious principal turned near-reluctant teacher harboring a sweet crush on Janine. Comedian Janelle James brings infinite laughter as a slacking, multitasking yet on occasion wise Principal Ava, Lisa Ann Walters is the tough, sassy South Philly raised Melissa who has “fix-it” people on speed dial, Chris Perfetti plays the corny, overly talkative, well-meaning eighth grade teacher Jacob, and William Bradford Davis effortlessly plays the thoughtful janitor-of-all-trades Mr. Johnson. Every single person puts in work on this impressive ensemble, making a school setting feel authentically homey, hence why Abbott Elementary has received nominations and awards from the Black Reel, Emmys, Gotham, Independent Spirit, Golden Globes, the Writers Guild Association (WGA), the Producers Guild Association (PGA), the NAACP Image Awards, etc. It is an incredible feat—a long time coming actually— to see a Black woman creator deservedly honored and thoroughly loved by Hollywood sailing behind on the tidal wave of Yvette Lee Bowser, Mara Brock Akil, Shonda Rimes, Ava DuVernay, Hanelle Culpepper, Michaela Coel, and Issa Rae.

With its third season renewal from ABC and half the second season left before summer hiatus in the spring, the wonders of Abbott Elementary never cease.

Top Ten ‘Insecure’ Characters

How did the girls (Natasha Rothwell’s Kelli, Yvonne Orji’s Molly, and Issa Rae’s Issa) rank in the femfilmrogues top 10 Insecure characters?

Today is the big day. 

The fifth and final season of one of the best shows on television ends its run— the award-winning, highly melanated Insecure on HBO. We have seen pretty major events— cheating with crushes, various breakups, steamy hookups, ups and downs of career ambitions, and blow out public fights between besties. 

After four beautiful years learning about the Black side of Los Angeles from the mostly Inglewood based perspective, this is a personal list on the irresistible characters worth cherishing. Although some came for a season or two, they delivered a memorable impact that must be noted here. 

Molly (Yvonne Orji) has some redeeming qualities. 

10. Molly is a kick butt lawyer who always fumble relationship bags— Jared, Lionel, Andrew, and even two men from the premiere The League dating pool. From season one to season three, however, in her most imperative relationship, Molly was there for Issa through a tough breakup, donating money and time to We Got Y’all functions, hosting a special Moroccan dinner (season two’s Hella Perspective highlight), birthday hangout at The Last Dragon screening, and of course self care Sunday’s. She could always plan a top notch event. Yet she could come off catty and mean spirited, made assumptions, prioritized herself over others, held grudges, had that whole nasty situationship with Dro, and did not apologize first. 

Sometimes Derek (Wade Allain-Marcus) makes his minutes on screen quite memorable.

9.  Derek is a quiet, humble, successful husband to Tiffany. The love demonstrated in the season four finale really showcased that he was beyond the rich apple to his wife’s eye. He truly cared about her emotional and mental health, going well above and beyond to find her which differed from the pathetic police actions in the show within a show Looking For Latoya. Derek can also give good solid advice, especially to Lawrence who needs an active male listener and active feedback giver in his messy life. Still, while Derek calls out the BS how he sees fit, the words he said about being a girl dad as his daughter laid sleeping were disturbing on many levels. 

Chad (Neil Brown Jr.) adds raunchy delight or a highly enthusiastic shade via beverage intake.

8. Chad breathes random adult humor and loud slurpy sounds into awkward conversations. Often considered the male companion to Kelli, Chad is the one to have a good time with, to conduct your baddest behavior damn the consequences. Crude, obnoxious, and juice crazy, Leah’s fiancé (and we’re still waiting to see the mysterious Leah) is a real hoot— although at times misogynistic. He can be serious for just a real hot moment before skirting back to mischievous intentions. Still, where would Lawrence be without his uncouth best friend, Chad? 

Like Tasha (Dominique Perry), so many of us wasted precious moments on those unworthy of our time, our bodies, our hearts. We give and give and expect and expect only to be let down in the end.

7. Tasha was the saucy bank teller who crushed massively hard on the man depositing unemployment checks and false promises into her station. Yes, she came up to Lawrence’s job hoping for more than batteries and a hot sauce partner to share the lunch hour. When she finally received released tension, she felt comfortable enough to be herself despite primarily being a weekend girl. Yet she kept forgiving Lawrence for his misgivings including cheating on her, but the last straw was ditching her at the family BBQ without saying a damn thing. Downright disrespectful. Tasha deserved far better than the F Buddy status Lawrence wanted. 

Rasheeda (Gail Bean) stayed true to herself much to the dissatisfaction of her fellow employees.

6. Rasheeda aka DaDa refused to code switch it up at the white law firm— even heeding Molly’s advice to be less loud and pretty much be quiet— under the radar. Although the bosses generally liked Rasheeda’s a brash, outgoing personality in the interview, she was too much for them at the workplace daily. Makes one wonder if Rasheeda would benefit at the Black law firm that Molly works at now— maybe Molly can put in a recommendation someday. 

Team Daniel (Y’lan Noel) for a win in another lifetime.

5. Daniel— the scorching hot producer and Issa’s former classmate who encouraged her musical talents—was definitely the one who got away in Issa’s love life. He understood Issa much better than most in her intimate circle and supported her when she needed him. Sure he did the most (showing up at her job and an event hosted by her job), he did let her stay at his place when she had nowhere to go (or so she says— sis could have chosen several spaces). Just as they were getting closer and mixed message signal shooting Issa confused him for the last time, Daniel’s out of pocket behavior in Backwards Like, season three’s third episode put a nail on the king’s coffin. However, still think about what it would have been if Issa had reached out to him to help her with the Block Party instead of going over Molly’s head for Andrew—a man she barely knew. 

Dr. Rhonda (Denise Dowse) is the medicine Molly needs in her otherwise chaotic life.

4. Dr. Rhonda kept it one hundred with Molly— something a lot of people aren’t brave enough to do. The “shoulda, coulda, woulda” bogs many hopes for the future. For someone like goal oriented Molly originally hoping for a marriage similar to her parents, Dr. Rhonda easily burst that bubble, advising Molly to live in the moment and not rush to check all the boxes. 

Jared (Langston Kerman) didn’t go to college, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t as smart, confident, and talented as those who did. 

3. Jared was an incredibly layered character that knew what he wanted. Sure a certain ill-humored song performed on open mic night had the Enterprise employed brother flaking (not Molly’s fault), he eventually came back because she interested him. He managed to impress her bourgeois friends at a house party and sweet talked her into an utterly romantic first kiss near a car outside. Eventually sidelined for more sophisticated men, Jared’s patience was tested again and again as fickle Molly continued stringing him along as a potential boyfriend then friend then lover. Although it was unforgettable to have no errands to run after sharing Cookie Crisp cereal, they could not work out due to Jared’s exploration of his sexuality— not Molly’s (who too did some experimentation), just Jared’s. 

Issa (Issa Rae) took a while to find her worth. 

2. Issa was a mess hotter than those flaming red Cheetos. Yet she related on many ways, especially to those who do work mostly white nonprofit organizations that expect minorities to perform better than the average. The first episode contained a heavy, triggering moment— the kids mocking her hair, her accent, her style— this all hit home. Eventually those same kids grew to love Issa because she showed them the benefits in their neighborhood, aspired them to see beyond the typical Black stereotypes (that her own ingrained coworkers saw them as). Relationship wise— Issa stayed with Lawrence longer than she should have, treated Daniel poorly, took Nathan’s “ghosting” inappropriately, and did not listen to Molly’s warning about Condola. Issa does use people to her own needs. However, she takes initiative, builds up her community, and stays focused on bettering herself. 

Cheers to Kelli (Natasha Rothwell), everyone’s number one and most should have her own show in the future. 

1. Kelli is the most dynamic and hands down the most fascinating. She’s the coolest girl in the circle, another bank girl who knows her worth (like eventually Tasha), the one who can crack a spitfire joke and tell you all about yourself in an honestly frank manner. At the same time, Kelli has her vulnerabilities, her moments that tell the audience that she is not only valuable for a personal laugh track. When Kelli and bestie Tiffany were having problems way before Tiffany’s baby arrived, Kelli’s heart was ripped to pieces watching Tiffany surround herself with uppity, fake socialites. In the end, Kelli was there for Tiffany, being a considerable help in Derek’s search and taking care of their baby. She also advises Issa and Molly time to time on their BS. Plus Kelli’s sharp, witty tongue going head to head with Issa’s hilariously shady brother Ahmal (another top notch character) is often brilliant must-see-comedy. 

‘The Weekend’ Is a Smart, Relatable Romantic Comedy

The Weekend film poster. 

Although most romantic comedies contain a grossly exaggerated raunchiness that borders on unrealistic caricature, especially rated R films, The Weekend is well above the average. It has the rarity of putting Zadie, a Black woman in a leading role while also placing her at the forefront of desire— the attention of two men. What is not to love?

Zadie is a sarcastic, wise-cracking comedian. Her standup material mixes situational humor and making light of mental health struggle. She wears basic t-shirts (black, white, yellow) and high waisted blue jeans, even wearing the same outfit twice. In fact, she does not change those blue jeans.

In the premise, Zadie is spending the weekend at her parents’ rustic bed and breakfast with her ex-boyfriend Bradford and his girlfriend Margo. Now Bradford and Zadie are extremely close exes. Their intimacy is stronger than friendship, unlike a sibling vibe. Margo— who puts on a brave face— certainly feels the rift. The odd dynamic becomes overwhelmingly complicated due to Zadie’s increased meanness towards Margo. Aubrey, the handsome unattached guest, immerses himself into the triad, drawn specifically to Zadie. This incites Bradford’s own green-eyed monster. Beneath his kind and warranted protectiveness lies that need for Zadie. As days steeped in nature slowly press onward, that need cannot stay quiet. Even Zadie’s judgmental mother, Karen, sees it.

Bradford (Tone Bell) enjoys being in the middle of Margo (DeWanda Wise) and Zadie (Sasheer Zamata) until Aubrey (Y’lan Noel) enters the picture with eyes on Zadie.

On occasion, the four young people at the apex of this trip experience third wheel shifts: Zadie’s discomfort with Bradford and Margo, Bradford’s insecurity with Zadie and Aubrey, and Margo’s invisibility with Bradford. Throughout this interplay, Zadie is trying to keep a firm head as her anxiety wavers. She continues acting out, hiding secrets, secrets within herself. Aubrey, fresh from a breakup, is intrigued by Zadie and does not allow her to push him away.

Black girls ruling nature: Zadie and Margo try to have a civil conversation. 

Zadie’s most reliable male relationship seems to be with her father— who is absent during this mini vacation. He “appears” on the phone with her, though the audience never hears his voice. The busiest shirt that Zadie happens to wear is a patterned pink shirt taken from her father’s closet— while bike riding with her two love interests. Still, it is not too difficult for Zadie to embrace being brutally honest. Aubrey brings out another side of her, that awkward girl who often feels like a “supporting character and not the leading lady.” Even though Bradford knows Zadie’s every fault, he broke up with her because the dueling personalities were too heavy a burden. It is understandable, a partner with mental illness can be challenging exercise. However, cultured, sophisticated Margo— the “normal” woman— is not convincing him to commit enough. The well-traveled, articulate, fashionably conscious Margo has the flawless paper performance. Yet Bradford and Margo have not been intimate in months. Bradford sneaks off every chance to see Zadie, warning her against Aubrey, threatened by their obvious connection.

One of the most hilarious scenes in the film are Zadie, Aubrey, and Bradford biking together. 

Writer/director Stella Meghie helmed a brilliantly entertaining piece. The story arouses questions on the longevity of relationships, of finding balance and setting boundaries. There are Black comedians, Black photographers, Black business owners, scenes lit beautifully, capturing brown skin in all its glorious range. Plus, a deep complexioned, 4C haired Black woman leads a phenomenal cast operating smoothly together. Sasheer Zamata has an utterly riveting screen presence as Zadie, able to transition between deadpan humor and an authentic vulnerability with degrees of heartfelt seriousness resonating deeply. Her star should rise further in multifaceted roles, letting that natural candor shine through. The promising Tone Bell (Little), the exceptional DeWanda Wise (The Underground, Shots Fired, and She’s Gotta Have It), leading man material Y’lan Noel (Insecure’s heartthrob Daniel and funnily enough playing a younger version of Issa Rae’s character’s father in Meghie’s other film, The Photograph). Kym Whitley’s Karen provided a sweet, delightful surprise, a humbling performance that too allowed another real-life comedian to show impressive layers of humility and strength.

Tone Bell (Bradford), DeWanda Wise (Margo), Sasheer Zamata (Zadie), Kym Whitley (Karen), and Y’lan Noel (Aubrey) make up The Weekend cast. 

The Weekend is a refreshing look at the ways of discovering the constant things in life that heal us and the others that are quite toxic. Zadie learns in three days what will help her grow and what holds her back.

Zadie in darker jeans, an optimistic shirt, and a new hairstyle.

In the end, Zadie’s bright yellow t-shirt matching a great big smile assures viewers she made the healthiest choice for herself.

Rocky Shores for Issa and Molly? Say It Isn’t So

Insecure season 4 poster. 

It feels like eons since Insecure dropped off with Issa, Molly, Kelli, and Tiffany celebrating Issa’s 30th birthday at a special projection rerelease of The Last Dragon. Launched by Condola, the successful event inspired Issa to seek out aide for her own ideas— a Block Party for her community. 

Molly (Yvonne Orji) and Issa (Issa Rae) before things become unhinged. Would you still be BFF’s if someone called your life messy when theirs is not exactly together either? Molly needs to meet a kettle ASAP. 

In season four’s first episode Lowkey Feelin’ Myself, it sounds like Molly and Issa— one of the show’s key foundations— are on the rocks. Condola and Issa are becoming fast friends in addition to partnering in what appears to be an upcoming successful venture. And Molly seems to be looking left out. Sometimes relationships need a cooling off period, even sisterhood ones. Case in point, Molly and Issa have always had a tight bond. They talk about any and everything, smoke pot, and do yoga together for crying out loud. However, Molly has been too comfortable. The language used, her tone, even her eyes were expressing degrees of animosity, envy too. Deep down, perhaps, Molly does not want Issa’s Block Party to succeed, much less Issa and Condola. 

Yes, it will be strange that Lawrence’s new girlfriend Condola (Christina Elmore) is working with Issa, but this girl was already giving the beaming “I’m proud of you, Sis” look at Issa during the Block Party meetup. 

Before Issola can take off, it is revealed that Condola and Lawrence are not only dating, but Tiffany knows about it. Even if she was aware of the one date, it was wrong of Tiffany to withhold that information from Issa. Although Condola and Lawrence’s romantic link may mar the potential friendship from fully forming between the two, Condola and Issa retain an unexpected spark. Issa sees a lot of herself in Condola and Condola definitely sees Issa as a fun, quirky, stylish girl. This is unlike the dynamic between her and Frieda— Issa’s former We Got Y’all co-worker. Black women are something else together in a way, especially with a personality like Issa— awkward yet surprisingly fresh and relatable. Molly on the other hand could not form relationships with any of her co-workers, Black or otherwise. Hence why, Issa picturing Condola dressed like her whilst having sex with Lawrence (complete with the tags still on the clothes) was downright hilarious. 

Molly (Yvonne Orji) and Issa (Issa Rae) at the party, but Molly obviously had only Andrew in mind. 

Earlier in season three Daniel liked being the “hero” for Issa and Molly has these minor similarities. Molly, the successful, financially stable friend, loves being relied on, needed. Her selfishness entered Issa’s big event, growing wildly. Molly saw herself sidelined for another woman, jaws dropping hardcore as Issa thanked Condola, a definite red flag. Instead of congratulations (which Kelli and Tiffany granted), Molly pulls Issa aside to discuss her relationship with Andrew aka Asian Bae. Now there is a time and a place to talk about your personal situations— a night of raising money and promotion was not it. Even Issa, whose body language revealed her own frustration with her self-centered friend, was not having it. As they were taking out the trash, the feelings could not have been painted any clearer. 

Other tidbits: Issa still uses people to her advantage. At least she is open to different body types. Her brother may be gay, but he appreciates the alluring qualities of a woman’s body. Kelli still deserves a rich layered story beyond the sex crazed voluptuous sidekick. The moment Andrew (whose fabulous hair is gone) nonchalantly confirms that he is dating other people, Molly reacts in typical Molly fashion. The show within a show promises to be another hilarious treat with Terri J. Vaughan and Ray J leading the fray. 

Issa (Issa Rae) has definitely come up on her public speaking skills. 

In conclusion, this welcome back episode was quite interesting— the music, the fashion continues threading significantly into the show. While Issa is growing (well, if she could only stop returning clothes), Molly is stagnant— how can a friendship survive that? Can Condola and Issa blossom into a new sisterhood while Condola is dating Lawrence— Issa’s longest relationship? 

‘The Nanny’ Reunion Pandemic First Episode Read

The Nanny debuted on November 3, 1993 and ended on June 23, 1999.

Along with Family Matters, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Blossom, and Sister, Sister, and other iconic 90’s sitcoms, The Nanny was among those considered a family gathering moment around the singular television. Thus, imagine the happy surprise of tuning into the reunion pandemic reading of the first episode. The cast (with the exception of guest star James Marsden) read along in their respective homes adding the treat of Ann Hampton Calloway singing and piano playing The Nanny Named Fran theme and Peter Marc Jacobson, The Nanny’s co-creator narrating the start of each scene. 

Reunited bunch. 

Even though separate from each other, they made #StayAtHome work. Charles Shaughnessy (the very dashing Broadway producer/widower Mr. Maxwell Sheffield) with his eloquence and props, Benjamin Salisbury (the problematic middle child, Brighten) with wry humor, Nicholle Tom (the sheltered eldest child, Maggie) with that sincere innocence and surprisingly hilarious switcheroo, Madeline Zima (the youngest, slightly misunderstood child, Grace) humorously embodying a six-year-old’s quirky spirit, Lauren Lane (the catty neighbor CeCe) and Daniel Davis (Brit wit Niles the butler) still maintaining those clipped, haughty tones and perched eyebrows all alit in their hilarious banter, Renee Taylor with the loud, razzle dazzle, and of course the illustrious, down-on-her-luck Fran Drescher herself leading the pack as a cosmetics sales lady turned nanny. 

Peter Marc Jacobson narrating alongside exterior shots from the first episode. 

Although the show is about an unemployed Jewish white woman from Flushing, New York City, there was something daring that I did not catch as a child— the mentioning of President Ronald Reagan’s underhanded interference in Grenada. 

After firing Fran for crossing the line in his parenting, Mr. Sheffield goes, “I overacted, didn’t I?”

“Like Reagan in Grenada,” Niles replies. 

The whole history lesson here is that in order to demolish the People’s Revolutionary Government (which threw out Grenadian system), the profound Maurice Bishop and his followers had to be silenced. Once they were all brutally murdered (with location of their bodies still relatively unknown), the United States invaded the vulnerable Caribbean country under the guise of code name Operation Urgent Fury. Now how this related to The Nanny circa 1993, ten years after this horrific power play abuse, is a huge stretch of a simile, especially considering that the show is lily white. There are no people of color onscreen or behind-the-scenes. It is extremely problematic that this came to be suggested and given the go-ahead. Even now with the United States seizing medical supplies from reaching Barbados— another Caribbean country. In the deliverance of that line, it feels like the laughter is geared more towards what the Reagan administration did to innocent bodies than Mr. Sheffield temporarily firing Fran. 

From afar without sets and props, Fran (Fran Drescher) and Mr. Sheffield (Charles Shaughnessy) still have the chemistry. 

However, one of the more funnier examples of the 90’s many pop culture references of bullying 45, was Fran waving at the unseen Ivana Zelníčková Trump— the first of his three wives— exclaiming, “you’ll find someone new.” Let us hope that comes to who leads the country in this presidential election year. 

While it was wonderful to see the cast reunited and bring back pleasant memories, it does question what flew over our heads in the dialogue. What did we not understand between the laugh tracks? Of course there was plenty of sexual innuendo going on— that happens a lot in most sitcoms. There are levels of sensitivity to consider when formulating scripts. Yet the writers put the umbrella up to let the audience guess. And often times, we miss the mark because the information was not privy to us. 

'The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl' Kept It Real

The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl logo.

Nothing seems more relatable than the classic The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl, a two-season web series of 25 must-watch episodes. J (who shares my nickname) has been one of the most iconic characters ever invented, especially for nerdy Black girls looking for quirky images of themselves. 

The first episode was an instantaneous "you get me," like when love hits a person in a full, cataclysmic force.  After a breakup from a long-time boyfriend, J cuts off her hair, her ex comes back, and doesn't see her as desirable anymore. It brushes on most men's long hair fetishes, equating hair with femininity. The Black community is further problematic. When Black women break free of relaxers and pressings, glorying in their natural hair, Black men weren't necessarily on board at first. For darker skinned women, historically seen as closest to masculinity, wearing cropped hair was foolishly viewed as a great evil. J doesn't let the ex's opinion hurt. Her short hair is a defiant statement that never changes as the series progresses along. In addition to her deep brown skin and beautiful short natural, J represents the average Black woman, our bodies, our interactions with the world around us. Such a golden, honest reflection.

J (Issa Rae) often found herself in wacky tough spots, but her TWA and earrings were always on point.

Unfortunately, J has to deal with an awful work environment. Hanna, her boss is an inappropriate culture vulture, Nina is a particularly nasty bully, Germy Patty holds snotty tissues like safety blankets, Darius's whisper voice is irritating, and lovesick A follows J around, not taking the politest of rejection hints. J finds endearing highlights in her best friend CeCe and adorable, seemingly unrequited crush on Fred, the new guy. With CeCe, J has found a great companion, a gal just as awkward as her. In fact, their hallway interactions were delightfully humorous and a spot on testament of office discomfort. 

J (Issa Rae) smiles often, even in situations that don't call for smiling.

J's other office favorite-- the kind, supportive Sir-Smiles-A-Lot, Fred, then begins a big triangle. She has much in common with anger management counselor White Jay, whom she met at Fred's birthday party. Fred realizes much too late that he likes her. She ultimately has to decide between the two, leading to a sweetly surprising season one finale. If including A and the lesbian receptionist in the whirligig of J's love life, J was quite the catch. 

The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl dishes out a fully thought out curriculum in a smart, refreshing way. It daringly brings up all the things we ever thought about, going over: proper car behavior (if it's someone you don't like or regrettably slept with), dance party etiquette, dating, job interviews, boyfriend's terrible friends, and all those finicky situations in between. Yet displayed through the eyes of a girl that looks so much like us. She doesn't have it quite together. And that is okay. Her rap flows are legendary and her killer internal dialogue is the stuff laughter is made of. 

J (Issa Rae) is every young woman whoever feels out of place-- whether it be at a public function or where we are in our lives (financially, emotionally, physically).

While network TV has room to catch up to Black women in leadership roles and cable is slowly becoming a space, the web series remains the most solid place to find us. The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl inspired a longing for other great Black women characters in this short digital format. American Koko's Agent Koko, Sam Bailey's You're So Talented, and Hermione and the Quarter Life Crisis's Black Hermione showcase Black women in all faucets of individuality. 

Issa Rae has taken over HBO with award-winning Insecure and is currently in Little (which reunited Rae and Tracy Y. Oliver-- The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl's Nina and the web series producer/writer). Up next, Rae stars in The Lovebirds with Kumail Nanjiani and Stella Meghie's The Photograph. Insecure's fourth season has been pushed to 2020.

Issa, the bonafide star on the left. The Misadventures of Black Girl cast: Fred (Madison Shockley III), Jesus (Michael Ruesga), J (Issa Rae), White Jay (Lyman Johnson), Jerry the Temp (Ricky Woznichak), CeCe (Sujata Day), and Denise (Devin Danielle Walker).

Every time the desire to binge The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl comes on, the temptation cannot be denied. Stories are funnier, wittier. Above all, the world of J will never stop resonating.