First - just to be clear, this is a review for the webseries, not the TV pilot, which I've actually still yet to see.
Written and starring the talented Adjani Salmon and shot with a whole heap of love by the cast and crew, these series of vignettes tell the story of Kwabena, an aspiring Jamaican film maker, living in London. He tries every route he can to get into the business only to be told he needs more experience (been there buddy) while in his personal life he struggles to live up to the expectations of his family while navigating the stormy waters of tinder dating. (utterly hilarious episode) He joins one set as a runner, where everyone assumes he smokes weed and can't seem to walk down the street without being mistaken for a dealer. His uncle disapproves of his fashion look (an excellent Roderick Burrows, an actor who has always been criminally underused) while his friends around him embrace a more mainstream lifestyle of 9 to 5 and video games in the evening. Ultimately, he decides to do make a film himself but then a new love in his life starts to undermine his priorities.
Although some of the humour comes from clash of culture and themes around assumptions of cultural identity, the beauty of this show is that much of the narrative is universal and will appeal to a wide audience. Salmon plays the lead role beautifully, totally understated and what he may lack in experience, he certainly does not lack in talent (so I guess experience isn't always a prerequisite to the gift of storytelling and performance eh?)
The show touches upon many issues and one which is a parody of the unfair class system in terms of getting ahead, is brilliantly done. I am sure the filmmakers must have seen the film 'Living in Oblivion' for the nods and anyone who has worked on a low budget set, as a runner or had to do their own crowdfunding campaign for their movie, will find many a laugh to be had here.
Dani Mosely must get a special mention for her performance as Amy, in the role of long suffering 'Okay, I'll be the producer on your film and best friend' part. She does the Amy look of evil, so well and I'm glad to see she was also cast in the BBC pilot which has just been commissioned from.
This is one of the most earnest and honest pieces of filmmaking I have seen in a long time. Salmon is an outstanding talent and I am certain he will be holding a bafta in his hands within his lifetime. Recommended.
