Ep 7. The Gift of Hunger

In Black-ish season 1 episode 7, titled "The Gift of Hunger," the Johnson family participates in their traditional Thanksgiving celebration. But this year, Dre struggles to connect with his children's holiday spirit while still adhering to his own cultural traditions. He wants to teach his children the importance of giving back to the community and being grateful for what they have, rather than just the material possessions that come with the holiday season.

Dre, played by Anthony Anderson, is confronted with the realization that his children have become too accustomed to the luxurious lifestyle that his success has provided them. He wants to teach them the value of hard work and perseverance, but he isn't sure how to do that without seeming too preachy or judgmental. He decides that the best way to teach his kids about the true meaning of Thanksgiving is by having them volunteer at a local homeless shelter.

At the shelter, the Johnson family meets an array of different people, all with their own unique stories and backgrounds. The experience opens the eyes of the children to the harsh realities of life, and they begin to appreciate all of the things that they have taken for granted. However, Dre's plan backfires when he realizes that his children are not as enthusiastic about volunteering as he had hoped. They are more interested in the holiday festivities, the food, and the gifts that their parents have gotten them.

Meanwhile, Bow, played by Tracee Ellis Ross, is struggling to outdo her mother when it comes to her Thanksgiving meal. She wants the day to be perfect, but she's also aware of the fact that her mother is a better cook, and she doesn't want to disappoint her husband's family. Alongside her own insecurities, Bow's mother is very critical of her new daughter-in-law's cooking. The tension between Bow and her mother escalates throughout the episode, culminating in a hilarious cooking competition that tests both of their skills and patience.

This episode of Black-ish explores themes of family, humility, and gratitude. It depicts the struggle of balancing cultural traditions with modern-day expectations and highlights the importance of giving back to the community. The show also touches on the pressure that comes with hosting a successful Thanksgiving meal, and how it can strain relationships. However, the humor and heartwarming moments of the show tie everything together and make for an enjoyable viewing experience.

Overall, "The Gift of Hunger" is a great addition to the first season of Black-ish. It highlights the importance of gratitude and the value of hard work while still maintaining the show's signature humor and heart. It's a perfect episode to watch with family during the holiday season, and it offers a refreshing take on the traditional Thanksgiving storyline.