Watch Chewing Gum

Chewing Gum is a British television series that aired on E4 from 2015 to 2017. The show follows the life of a twenty-something girl named Tracey Gordon, who is played by Susan Wokoma. Tracey is a religious virgin who lives in a tower block in a London council estate. She works in a convenience store and dreams of breaking free from her mundane life.

The series opens with Tracey’s attempts to lose her virginity to her boyfriend Ronald, played by Robert Lonsdale, who later becomes her ex. Tracey is determined to explore her sexuality and starts to ask questions about sex to her friends, siblings, and mother. Her search for sexual exploration becomes the central theme of the show.

Chewing Gum is a coming-of-age story that is refreshingly honest and introspective. It tackles themes such as religion, sex, race, identity, and poverty in a hilariously frank and awkward way. The dialogue is witty, at times raunchy, and always smart. The show doesn't shy away from exploring the realities of living in a council estate and how it can marginalize people at a young age due to a lack of opportunities.

The show is unique in that it portrays the experiences of Black British millennials, which are often underrepresented in mainstream media. Writer and creator Michaela Coel has crafted a show that is relatable, entertaining, and poignant. She has skillfully tackled issues of class and race through the character of Tracey, who is a young Black girl from a working-class background.

What makes Chewing Gum standout is the superb acting from the lead cast, especially Susan Wokoma, who delivers a bravura performance as Tracey. Wokoma provides the perfect balance of naivety, humor, and vulnerability. Her portrayal of Tracey is so authentic that you can't help but root for her in her quest for self-discovery. Robert Lonsdale as Ronald is equally impressive, and his chemistry with Wokoma is electric.

Another standout aspect of the show is its unique visual style. Director Tom Marshall has made the series look and feel like a quirky indie film. The camera work has a playful and experimental quality that keeps the show feeling fresh and dynamic. The use of bright colors, jump cuts, and freeze frames gives the show a distinct and fun look.

In conclusion, Chewing Gum is a hilarious and poignant television series that offers a fresh perspective on the experiences of young Black millennials. The writing is sharp, the acting is superb, and the visual style is unique. The show combines humor and drama in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Chewing Gum is a must-watch for anyone looking for a refreshing and authentic coming-of-age story.

Chewing Gum is a series that ran for 3 seasons (18 episodes) between October 6, 2015 and on E4