‘Earth Mama’ Pushes A Desperate Mother Into A Poignant Trimester

 

Earth Mama film poster.

Earth Mama comes in threes, a symbolic trifecta perhaps.

Gia, a photographer assistant and former high school basketball player, is expecting her third child, lives with her drug dealing sister, and visits Trey and Shaynah once a week at Children’s Services. The father is neither mentioned or shown, a tragic, heartbreakingly familiar role, showcasing that women like Gia are accustomed to raising offspring either alone or obtaining community support. Three different women impact Gia’s final trimester— her best friend Trina, the sweet, gentle Mel, and the compassionate social worker Miss Carmen.

Gia (Tia Nomore, far right) becomes accustomed to being out of the picture. DP: Jody Lee Lipes.

For example, Gia (Tia Nomore) has to make monitored appearances to Trey (Ca’Ron Jaden Coleman) and Shaynah (Alexis Rivas) instead of being fully in their lives. DP: Jody Lee Lipes.

Trey and Shaynah are Gia’s entire world. She loves them so much. 

Unfortunately, Gia cannot provide the environment that they deserve. Worse, the case worker stares at Gia’s far along belly, discussing the possibility of the newborn joining Trey and Shaynah in the corrupt system. The baby already has a set destiny despite still being in Gia’s womb. Furthermore, Gia’s phenomenal skills at her photography studio gig include her inventive imagination and keen ability to set up beautiful stages that suit individual desires. If only she could bring those masteries into her personal life, build a three-dimensional home from flat backdrops...

Trina (Doechii) does Gia’s (Tia Nomore) hair. DP: Jody Lee Lipes.

Gia’s BFF Trina is also pregnant, seemingly at the same trimester. Gia needs someone who knows and understands what she endures. At first, maternity bonds Gia and Trina together. However, as Gia considers adoption, Trina becomes more and more metaphorical, her heavy words blasting societal determination to breaking the mother’s bond to her child early on. Trina’s spiritual point holds weight, especially considering the sordid American history of separating Black women and their children, selling them off to the highest bidders which later complicates ancestral family trees. Trina then brings in the religious big guns; Christian value philosophy finding itself dangerously nestled into impressionable Black minds. While Gia has ultimately decided to put relationships on hold to concentrate on getting Trey and Shaynah back, Trina pushes Gia into reconsidering options, to still give men a chance, to raise a baby that Gia cannot possibly afford. Trina blinding herself to Gia’s obvious distress, pursuing a “misery loving company” angle, puts their friendship at risk. Trina considers Gia’s moves as an act of betrayal, not an act of benevolence. 

Gia (Tia Nomore) and Mel (Keta Price) walk through nature. DP: Jody Lee Lipes.

One of the most imperative figures in Gia’s life is her friend and neighbor Mel. In light of her grieving her recently departed mother, Mel opens up about her emotional turmoil whilst introducing Gia to a much needed special place away from the men who sit outside hollering at any passing female. In nature, Mel and Gia can breathe fully, divulge their life worries beside the waters and the trees, an escape from their harsh realities. Their scenes showcase another kind of grounding that Gia needs, a calming serenity that nature contains. Plus, Mel is one of the few that expects nothing from Gia whereas Trina wants Gia to keep the baby and Miss Carmen believes that adoption is the best option. Mel genuinely cares about Gia, showing up whenever Gia needs her, taking Gia’s frustrations without blowing back at her, and listening to Gia. Mel is a healing vessel, a moral compass that does not judge Gia for her choices. 

Gia (Tia Nomore) looking through potential families for the baby in her womb with Miss Carmen (Erika Alexander). DP: Jody Lee Lipes.

Miss Carmen, kind and supportive to a class of expectant mothers, has a motive at the end of the day— giving babies fresh homes, fresh starts. A skeptical Gia browses through the pages, humoring Miss Carmen,  The unfortunate parallel is that while Gia loves and cares for her unborn child, questioning ways of ensuring survival, Gia’s baby represents a hopeful beginning for another family. They have generous resources that Gia cannot fully provide, primarily a soon-to-be empty nest, meaning ample room and one on one attention. Yet, Miss Carmen reminds Gia that she has a choice and in the end, is at Gia’s side when Gia needs her. 

Led by a brilliant cast including newcomers Tia Nomore, Doechii, and Keta Price alongside award-winning actress Erika Alexander (whose already receiving acclaim for her supporting role in American Fiction), Savanah Leaf’s refreshing voice revives a deadening industry, a nice, sentimental surprise coming from a former Olympian. The starkly written and directed Earth Mama aligns with the sensitive material explored in Leaf’s earlier documentary short film The Heart Still Hums (co-directed/co-written by actress Taylor Russell). In that emotionally riveting piece, two incredible organizations: Chicks In Crisis and Black Mothers United help five women in Sacramento, California get their lives back on track as they face the brutal consequences of systemic oppression— homelessness, family neglect/abandonment, and limited monetary resources. The women sacrifice just as Gia sacrifices, putting their children’s well being above all else in the world. 

It is highly recommended to watch The Heart Still Hums and Earth Mama together. 

Trina and Gia. DP: Jody Lee Lipes.

Also, similarly to A. V. Rockwell’s A Thousand and One, Earth Mama bravely confronts the foster care system— a problematic, separation tactic that treats individuals sans compassion and grace. Children are more so its victims and not necessarily nurtured towards a brighter future. As part of her agreement to keep seeing Trey and Shaynah— two kids taken care of by unseen strangers— Gia stays clean and works a decent retail job. She’s treated, however, as a prisoner, subjected to urine tests with frequent requests to view her living arrangements. Thus, the mother interacts with her children much like inmates do with their families, for limited time, supervised. Although reasonable and somewhat fair— the children deserve to be in safe, thriving environment— this does highlight the often generational, structural failings for American women who have no college degrees, low income jobs that provide no room for further promotion/substantial wages, and the housing crisis in addition to a lack of sexual education and mental health aid. Even if Gia chased her sports dreams, she would always be hounded by the past, have this blight on her record, and Trey and Shaynah (who already shows signs of resentment) would certainly not forget. 

Overall, Earth Mama doesn’t embellish truths or disguise Gia’s story into a fairy tale ending. Instead, the ambiguous outcome offers a slim glimpse of hope to a young woman and her three precious children—forever judged for merely existing. 

Best TV Couple #1: Kyle Barker & Maxine Shaw

FOX's Living Single had that je ne sais quoi with Kyle and Maxine.

Living Single's Kyle Barker and Maxine Shaw proved that nemeses can be one stop away from true love. Beneath contempt and playground antics, stock broker Kyle and Miss Shaw "attorney at law" had a definitive love jones going on. Their story smoothed over the course of the show, flowing as silkily as velvet wine. Or as Kyle's deep, melodious voice.

Kyle, the upstairs roommate of Overton Wakefield Jones, has a classy elegance draped in beaded ankh jewelry. His rich wardrobe ranges from fine tailored suits and fedora hats to patterned clothes that nod to African heritage. In addition to being an essential asset at his job, he sings on many occasions and it is an alluring talent. On the other hand, husky voiced Maxine is just as in the vogue. She wears sleek power suits in bold colors and patterns and lovely dresses that compliment her slender body shaped as an illustrious ebony statue. She takes charge in and outside of the courtroom, evoking solid determination.

In the first episode, "Judging By the Cover," Kyle says, "you want me" to Maxine and adds his signature growl.

In the fourth episode, "A Kiss Before Lying," Maxine's ex comes to town with his fiancée. She asks Kyle to be her pretend boyfriend at the dinner table. He obliges and teases her throughout the whole ordeal much to the astonishment of their friends. They sit together, close and intimate, looking a beautiful double portrait together. She is uncomfortable with the masquerade. He is overly enjoying the game. One wonders if he is all act.

Maxine and Kyle exchange barbs for remainder of the season, clashing like titans, each one always fighting to obtain that last, cutting remark. Yet, palpable chemistry is ripening.  

The season finale, episode twenty-seven's "What's Next" has Maxine in deep trouble. Maxine tells rich client Sheila Kelly to think about a prenup. Sheila is angry that her fiancé dumps her and demands that Maxine be let go. Instead of taking Maxine's side, the law firm suspends her for giving good advice. Surprised and hurt, Maxine arrives at Khadijah's to drown in booze. Unfortunately, her bestie is busy sorting out a love triangle. She turns to Kyle and they spend the night together underneath kente cloth sheets, in a living room decorated in African celebration.

Season two premiere's "There's Got To Be A Morning After," continues Maxine awaking from Kyle's couch. Shocked and disgusted, they are quick to insult each other. Their friends are astonished. Overton, however, believes Maxine and Kyle are destined. Kyle asks Maxine out to dinner. Their compatibility bursts on the dance floor. They have a hilarious battle taking lead in the tango. Kyle is a traditionalist. Maxine relishes her power. In the end, sharing a tender moment roaring with affection, they decide to stay snippy. Kyle, though, wants more.  

Kyle starts off hot and seductive.....

And Maxine's dress stops him in his track.

He brings it back on the stage-- not only confident enough to sing "My Funny Valentine," but he can look Maxine dead in the eye while doing so.

Maxine tries to play immune, but Kyle's voice is a gift from the heavens.

As Kyle boasts about getting Maxine out of his system, their stares across the room say otherwise.

Maxine is a goner. It is understandable.

"Singing the Blues," episode fifteen, is amazing progression. Kyle is nervous about performing live at an intimate club. He steps on stage and belts with strong, unbelievable prowess-- until Maxine enters in a trench coat and bares a sexy, form fitting dress. Suddenly, Kyle messes up his song and races off stage, embarrassed. She taunts him, gleeful that her little scheme worked. Kyle, however, pays her back in a huge way-- coming back on stage to sing a rendition of "My Funny Valentine," lyrics changed to describe Maxine. His performance is enough to make a woman melt and Maxine is no exception. She alternates between chewing napkins and wiping her blushing face. Afterwards, they share the unspoken soap opera stare.

"Is this really going to happen?" Maxine asks.

"It's been happening!" Kyle exclaims. And this kiss is fire.

The season two finale, "The Shake Up" brings two denials together. After Maxine and others are held up at gunpoint by a bank robber, Kyle unknowingly prevents danger. Maxine jumps on him and kisses him, calling him her hero. She wants to repay him with dinner at her apartment. He doesn't feel comfortable with her praise. He just happened to be at the right place at the right time. When he tells her the truth, she remains persistent and grants in a peck in front of everyone. As Kyle enters Maxine's apartment for the first time, so does the audience. It is a charming, tasteful home with a piano included. They sit at the bench and play a few keys together. Maxine is more receptible, more open with Kyle alone time, more so than in "There's Got To Be A Morning After." Her guard is not up. They wonder what is the next step for them. Kyle pulls her asunder and kisses her in dramatic, movie style fashion.

Season three is filled with sweet highlights. In "Grumpy Old Men," Kyle isn't happy about getting older and Maxine cheers him up at the laundry mat. They are a display of holiday cheer in "Let It Snow, Let it Snow, Let It Snow, Dammit," sharing their first Christmas together as a couple with their friends in Canada.

Episode eleven, "Mommy Not Dearest," however, reveals that Maxine doesn't take her relationship seriously. She has told her mother about the girls and Overton, but not about Kyle-- who is her boyfriend. "Wake Up to the Break Up," episode seventeen, nonchalant Maxine lets Kyle to go out on a date. He is fed up with her attitude and breaks up with her. They resume their previous relationship-- despising each other. Still, he helps her run a successful campaign for office.

In the fourth season, all is not what it appears. After repercussions of deflowering a young man in episode ten's "Virgin Territory," Maxine leaves a room and Kyle slyly follows. It is revealed in episode sixteen's "Oh, Solo Mio," that they're having a secret affair. Hot and heaviness plus arguments galore fog up episode seventeen's "Playing House." They have a commitment free rendezvous in a hotel suite (Kyle pretending to be in Japan and Maxine is in Philadelphia). In episode twenty-three's "Papa Was a Rolling Stone," they are jovial and merry, holding hands down Kyle's steps and dancing in the hallway. It is such a terrific scene. Maxine and Kyle can say that their clandestine affair is purely about sex, but they also have fun together.  

Kyle and Maxine kiss goodbye. He releases her and crooks his finger-- the gesture implying, "You're the one."

In "Never Can Say Goodbye," season four's season finale, Kyle tells Maxine that his firm has opened up a location in London. They want him to head it. She pretends not to care and it hurts Kyle. Later, before Kyle enters Sinclaire and Overton's wedding, Maxine blurts out, "I love you."

Season five begins with an emotional two part, "Love Don't Live Here Anymore."  Kyle and Maxine are together. He makes her repeat the three little words. She grimaces at the thought, but obliges. She is sadly mistaken though. He is still leaving. She is angry that he plans to take the job. He asks her to go with him. She makes her case at the airport, pleading with him to stay. But this is not a courtroom. This is real life. He wants her in London. Thus, the two are at an impasse, neither refusing to budge. Thus, this breakup is more detrimental than the first. Their final kiss is passionate and tender, so full of ferocious, undeniable love. He leaves to board his plane and she has a hard time not being affected.

The remainder of fifth season loses its charm and magic. In the series finale, Maxine is pregnant and Kyle is the father via special donation. He returns to town and she is hesitant about telling him. Overton spills the beans. Kyle and Maxine talk it out on the rooftop. Kyle professes his love through song and a touched Maxine hugs him close. They plan to raise their child together in New York City.

Kyle and Maxine inspired the compiling of this list-- a list of various couples from past and current climate. Kyle and Maxine represent a mating of like minded individuals sharing a common ground. A dark skinned girl seldom found a reflection on the small screen. Dark skinned Kyle and Maxine were beautiful figures carried themselves with a sophisticated prestige and wore natural hair in similar locs style-- dismantling myths created by self hating society.

Erika Alexander and T.C. Carson were outstanding together. They made Living Single tremendously pleasing to watch, especially in the recent binging. As an adult watching a sitcom that originally aired during adolescence, there is a new, vibrant energy that comes through, the humor, the significant nods to African heritage, and the love. Kyle and Maxine's sparring sessions had a ton of bite and the smoldering sensuality was too delicious to resist. Many cannot even reach the scope of mimicking this fantastic chapter of pop culture history/herstory. Alexander and Carson's hilarious yet wicked duo-- Maxine and Kyle-- will always be a memorable contribution to black romance on television.