Black Teen Angst #Forever: A Review of Mara Brock Akil’s New Netflix Hit

For most of my life, Mara Brock Akil has been on my radar. Both my mother and older sister are proud graduates of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, having earned their degrees in 1992 (B.A.), 1996 (M.A.), and 2023 (B.A.), respectively. My mom, a journalist-turned-CEO of an Illinois Wildlife Park, was a classmate of the now-decorated screenwriter and television producer. I am particularly familiar with her achievements, as "Mara was the Youngest Black Showrunner on Mainstream T.V.!" was a praise that went platinum in my household. Although Judy Blume failed to gain a similar status throughout my childhood, I can vividly recall her picture books, 'Superfudge' and 'Tales of a Fourth-Grade Nothing,' stealing the spotlight in my elementary school's library. My first time witnessing the trailer for Brock Akil's Netflix series adapted from Blume's delicate novel 'Forever' was a euphoric experience. Granted, I was a bit apprehensive about the public reception of an all-black cast of a beloved tale. Through their collaboration, Mara and Judy squashed those anxieties with ease and class. By making this seemingly insignificant creative choice, Forever gifted its audience something seldom depicted on screen - a coming-of-age story starring two Black characters. A journey narrating the first love between neurodivergent basketball-star Justin, and tortured scholar-athlete Kiesha, Forever sets its scenes of teen angst in sunny Los Angeles. Reunited at a friend’s New Years Eve party, Brock Akil’s two protagonist’s bring in 2019 with heart-wrenching fixations firmly in tow. Guided by the often opposing perceptions of their loved ones, the two highschoolers venture down a tumultuous road of infatuation and heartbreak. Relative newcomers, Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr. shine brightly in their respective roles, showcasing a chemistry for the ages.