Flatbush Misdemeanors

I'm five episodes into this series, and the jury is still out. I think there are moments in the series where I think "has potential", but then there are other moments where I can't help but think "preachy about social justice and yet depicts the community it's trying to highlight sometimes in a not so pleasant light". Possibly this is the aspect of the show where some rave saying the series is gritty and real. However, for me it just doesn't seem to be uplifting, and it extends stereotypes that aren't helpful. Nevertheless, I'll continue to watch the show for the full season, and possibly rewrite my short review to be more positive (or negative).

The show is good and has some great characters, Kareem being one of the stand outs! But Dan just really grates on me, he can't act and it seems like he's trying to be funny but it never lands. He should stay behind the camera from series 2>

Writing this as season 2 ep1 just came out. Really like this show. Similar to High Maintenance in that it blends what could be NYC real life people and situations. Only difference is HM will go towards the surrealistic at times. The humor in Flatbush comes from the absurdities of real life that when happening in the moment to people wouldn't necessarily seem funny, but looking on as viewers, are very comical. Then there's the characters.... Kareem (Dan's stepfather) and Dr Flowers (Dan's online therapist) are absolutely hilarious characters.

With all the political nonsense coming out in the last couple of years that's only redeeming quality is that it talks "real" about race, this show is super refreshing in that it comes as close as a comedy can to the real situation on the ground.

I found both of the main characters totally relatable, and I don't think you need to have experience with Flatbush to feel the same. I grew up relatively poor in a totally different area but these guys reminded me a lot of my multiracial mix of friends growing up. Different races, but similar problems, similar outlook on life. We didn't care about your skin color and openly joked about it with each other, things that are apparently super taboo these days.

Probably should have said this first, but this show is also hilarious. Specifically want to call out Hassan Johnson. How is he not in way more stuff? He cracked me up at least a few times. Also the jackass stepfather dude had some great dialogue.

I cannot believe I never heard of this show, the only reason I saw it as because it was a Staff Pick on Crave (Canada). This deserves way higher than its current criminally low rating. Showtime, get your house in order and promote this, because I know it would be wildly popular with those of us who grew up watching things like Fresh Prince or Family Matters.

I like this show. The interesting characters and authenticity. Many won't "get it" and others won't give it enough of a chance, which is apparent from many of the 1 star reviews. But this show is cool.