MGM’s new show is a visual representation of Stephen L. Carter’s The Emperor of Ocean Park novel. The trailer left us all wondering what the show was truly about. With a cast of talented and impressive actors, the first episode was an incredible flashback through the past and the present.
Forest Whitaker remains a highly skilled student and actor of the craft when presenting a character on screen. The relationship the cast created outside of the show was represented brilliantly through their work, and it is evident that Forest led them in the direction of greatness. Forest stars as Judge Oliver Garland,
“A brilliant legal mind, conservative and famously controversial, Judge Garland made more enemies than friends. Many years before, he’d earned a judge’s highest prize: a Supreme Court nomination. But in a scene of bitter humiliation, televised across the country, his nomination collapsed in scandal. The humbling defeat became a private agony, one from which he never recovered.” according to Stephen
The series kicks off on an emotional high, aiming at your sorrows and traumas, yet it is beautifully expressed through storytelling. The dynamic between the siblings showcases what it is like to be in a family that demands the best of you while having you compete for attention. It is always nice to see black families on TV, but it is something different seeing this family portray growing up in a Republican household.
Grantham Coleman, who mastered the role of Talcott Garland, is constantly on the road to showing his diversity and passion for the arts. This role is perfect for him because he is showing a new audience brotherhood, sonhood, and the culture of romance through Tal’s lens, solidifying his excellence in the field of acting. The excitement for his next ventures is over the edge.
Tiffany Mack as Mariah Garland is already a relatable staple. Mariah seems to be a “let's get it done” type of person, and her ability to stay strong in the midst of chaos is outstanding. However, she is ahead of the game and is putting things together. As always, the ones who come to the rescue bear the biggest and most significant pains.
Henry Simmons as Addison Garland is an icon! Point blank, period! We all have been waiting for a Star Series world for Henry Simmons. He has been in this game working hard, but this role was made for him. The work he put out has led him to this moment, and as a supporter, it's great to see. Addison is a guarded guy but very sensitive and soft on the inside. This character has so much thrust because he leaves room for questions.
Overall, the first episode was intriguing but a slow burn on mysteries. What is genuinely going to happen next in episode two? Who is Jack Ziegler on the inside? Where do Tal and Kimmer go from here?
Rating: 8/10
https://www.randomhouse.com/knopf/authors/carter/indexnew.html
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27601690/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
I like the show but it’s a little slow starting off