“One creative element that particularly stood out was the intentional role of music... using hip-hop to deepen the storytelling and reflect Harlem’s cultural legacy. That thoughtful approach adds another layer to the viewing experience and demonstrates how every creative decision was made with purpose.”

“The series is a Black comedy in more ways than one, filled with sly cultural references. Malcolm wears a black hoodie emblazoned with “Rooting for Everybody Black” (quoting Issa Rae, who famously launched her own career off the success of the digital series Awkward Black Girl)... The wit extends even to the episode titles, the fifth cheekily called 'I Haven’t Read Sister Outsider.'”

“Growing up in New York as I have, you take the sense of community for granted. The familiar faces... The grittiness and affordability that made the city magical. Now, inhabited by transplants in overpriced apartments with chain stores and restaurants with the personality of root canals, it’s unrecognizable... [FDB] couldn’t feel more resonant.”