Watch #FreeRayshawn

#FreeRayshawn is a fast-paced drama series from Quibi, starring Laurence Fishburne, Stephan James, and Jasmine Cephas Jones. The show, which premiered in April 2020, follows the story of a young black man named Rayshawn who is on the run from the police after being falsely accused of killing a police officer.

Set in New Orleans, the series starts with Rayshawn holing up in a tiny apartment with a shotgun in hand, ready to defend himself against any threats that may come his way. Enter Lt. Steven Poincy (Fishburne), a seasoned cop who is called to negotiate with Rayshawn and convince him to surrender.

As the two men engage in a tense standoff, Poincy begins to uncover the truth about what really happened on the night of the shooting. With Rayshawn’s pregnant girlfriend Tyisha (Jones) and his best friend Tyrell (played by Harry Lennix) caught in the middle, the situation quickly spirals out of control, forcing Poincy to make some tough decisions if he hopes to diffuse the situation.

The show’s strength lies in its masterful pacing and gripping storytelling, as the tension builds to an explosive and unpredictable finale. Fishburne delivers a powerful performance as the seasoned cop who wants to do the right thing but is hampered by a corrupt system. James is equally impressive as Rayshawn, conveying both the fear and resilience of a man who has been wrongfully accused.

Jasmine Cephas Jones is also excellent as Tyisha, bringing depth and heart to a role that could have easily been reduced to a sappy stereotype. The chemistry between the three leads is palpable, making the high stakes of the narrative all the more compelling.

In addition to its impressive performances, the show also stands out for its innovative use of technology. Shot entirely on an iPhone, the series employs a split-screen style that adds to the intensity of each scene. Viewers are given a 360-degree view of the action, making them feel like they are right in the middle of the action.

Throughout its 15 episodes, #FreeRayshawn explores important issues of race and police brutality without coming across as preachy or heavy-handed. Instead, the show infuses its storytelling with nuance and complexity, exploring the gray area between right and wrong.

At its core, #FreeRayshawn is a thrilling and nuanced exploration of an urgent social issue. It’s a show that challenges the viewer to think deeply about the complexities of systemic oppression and the ways in which marginalized communities are routinely criminalized in our society.

Overall, #FreeRayshawn is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a riveting, socially conscious drama. With its exceptional performances, innovative use of technology, and high-octane action, this series sets a new standard for the short-form content that Quibi is known for.