TELEVISION
REVIEW BY FRED LITTLE
The series Black Lightning’s main character is Cress Williams, 49, a known West Germany born actor who plays Jefferson Pierce a High School principal and loving father who reluctantly gets back into the hero business because his daughter was abducted by a villainous crew called the 100, led by Tobias Whale a six foot albino man (Marvin Jones III) who killed Jefferson’s father years prior this makes for hostile dramatic encounters throughout the series.
To see an empowered African American cast is tremendous. A true change of pace from other CW superhero ventures.
This one show explores complex subjects such as racism, curfews, quarantines, detainment facilities, police brutality and lesbian culture.
Another ingredient in the show that stands out is that it focuses on character development. For example the youngest daughter Jennifer Piece, portrayed by China Anne McCain matures from an irresponsible youth ( season 1) to a budding young hero blackbird (season 3) Who can fly and shoot fireballs from her hands. Her acting is solid and authentic her emotions of anger, indecisiveness and fear seem real. Growing into her powers kept me anticipating what was in next week’s adventurous episode.
Another important character is older daughter Arnissa Pierce played by somewhat new actor Nafessa Williams who portrays two sides of heroism. Her character is interesting and displays more martial arts vigilante characteristics. She is very spontaneous, angry, serious and is quick to step to her foes whether the 100 crew or Markovian invaders. In her personal life she plays a character whose love interest is a shapeshifter who can change from a beautiful exotic woman to an older oriental man to a leopard in seconds. This makes for spin that keeps me off balance.
All characters are eclectic and different and I admire that.
Another outstanding character is super villain Tobias who is merciless in his role in season three he said “if you did not want him dead why did you put him near with me.” He is a monster in this series.
Bill Duke has to be mentioned in his role as agent Odell. His thespian skills are magnificently presented. His dramatic pressure leaves you wanting more. The way agent Odell moves people around like pieces in a chess game to do his bidding is outstanding.
Director Benny Boom who was known for topnotch videos has demonstrates that he can execute an outstanding series. This show has something for all it gets 4.5 out of 5 from me and I would expect Image nominations to follow.
The background music features amazing artists Chaka Khan, Marvin Gaye and Howling Wolf.
RADIO & FILM
Dee Dee Walker was born in the Bronx, New York. She spent her earlier years growing up in the city, then relocated to Greensboro, North Carolina in her early twenties.
She always had a dream of becoming an Actress, after moving to Greensboro she did commercials and landed a spot on Blog Talk Radio.
Walker is currently doing ”The One and Only Dee Dee Walker Show” on 106TbcRadio.com for the last three years.
She has also done video Shows featuring live guests with her Mom for TV, called “Coffee Time” The Big Chat.
Walker has also published an action adventure-thriller screenplay called ”A Matter of Time” and wrote episodes of “The Carsons”.
She also shares that she has been in Plays and written some scripts along her journey into the exciting world of film. She was cast as the character Portia Love in the recent film ”Butter” which premiered in Greensboro.
“I didn’t know where it was going, I just enjoyed being on the set!” She reminisced.
Walker also mentions the short film “The Repast” in which she starred. “I played a Gold Digger! I played a snooty character named Gretchen who used a couple of people. I just love the character, you’ll be seeing more of her as there is ongoing interest in her.” Her company also filmed and edited the film project.
I asked if she though the recent protests sparked most recently by the murder of George Floyd would lead to police reform, and she like others remain hopeful that needed changes will come sooner than later.