The Resurrection

I love superhero movies, but I haven't seen many superhero television shows. Based on the first episode of Black Lightning, I may be in for some disappointment. I say that because this first episode is excellent! While admittedly light on the superhero action, this episode, and series in general, is more of a grounded, character-driven drama. Unlike many shows out there, this is unique in its tone. It is heavy on politics and race...just like it is in the real world. Racism and police brutality are just a few of the topics Salim Akil's show covers.

Unlike many superhero shows, this is not an origin story and I am thankful for that. Our main hero, a middle-aged man, goes back to the suit after a long, nine-year absence. The show is about a black family trying to survive in the city of Freeland, where black people live in fear. Jefferson Pierce aka Black Lightning (Cress Williams) turned away his suit nine years prior so he could be a hero in a different suit; one as an educator and administrator. He has two daughters; Anissa (Nafessa Williams) who is very outspoken and an activist and his teenage rebel, Jennifer (Chine Anne McClain). The family is being held together by Jefferson's ex-wife, Lynn (Christine Adams).

In addition to the Pierce family, we are introduced to some interesting characters/events. There is the One Hundred gang, which feeds fear into the heart of Freeland's citizens. Lala (William Catlett) is a remarkably interesting character within this gang. The show's villain seems to be a piece of work. He also happens to be Black Lightning's nemesis, as he murdered Jefferson's father. His name is Tobias Whale (Marvin 'Krondon' Jones). There is Chief Bill Henderson (Damon Gupton) who is one of the good cops. Finally, we are introduced to Peter Gambi (James Remar). Gambi is Black Lightning's mentor/secret spy agent. These characters lead the secondary cast, and they are all unique.

The performances are all great. Cress Williams gives a very strong if not subtle performance. Jones is a little over-the-top, but I am down for that. The women characters are all strong individuals and each actress shows it in a different way. I really liked the character of Anissa. She is not afraid to go after what she believes in, even if it leads her to be arrested. We can all relate to Jennifer's teenage rebellious nature, right? That personality of hers did lead to Black Lightning taking back out the suit once more.

Overall, "The Rebellion" is an incredibly strong first episode of Black Lightning. It is heavier on the political side of things, which is important given our current climate. Thankfully, we were not burdened with an origin story. I really like where this season is headed.

My Grade: A

This show does the best job at capturing the issues of today and reflecting how people with super powers would fit into this era. This show knows black history and displays how writers who identify ethnically with the characters and material in the show their writing for can make a script that reflects the true nature of how the real world looks and acts. Also, the fight/action scenes were off the chain!

Black Lightning started with a bang, making a clear statement that it sought to expand, defy and perfect the superhero genre. "The Resurrection" sets up a gritty tone, key stories, the main villain and explores social issues. The action is vibrant, but never distracting. It's going to be one cool superhero show for sure!

Do you like TV shows with Black characters acting out highly overplayed stereotypes? Cheesy special effects and a cheesier superHero costume?

DC Pushed LoT to a later starting date to put more focus on this show, Have mercy on us, cancel the show and spend your money on additional episodes for each season of your successful series (Arrow, Flash, LoT) instead of trying to augment them with this and ruining the schedualings that allowed for crossover storylines between the Arrowverse TV Shows.