Watch Harlem

Harlem is a dramedy series which premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2021. The show is created by Tracy Oliver, the brains behind hit movies like Girls Trip and Little, and is executive produced by Amy Poehler. Set in the vibrant neighborhood of Harlem, New York, the show follows four young women balancing their personal and professional lives while trying to figure out their place in the world.

The lead character of the show is Camille (played by Meagan Good), a successful art gallery owner who's recently ended a long-term relationship. As she tries to move on, she becomes more invested in her work and begins to speak up against the established stereotypes of black art. Meagan Good is magnetic as Camille, effortlessly portraying the complexities of a woman on the cusp of a new chapter in her life.

Her best friend, the law student Angie (played by Jerrie Johnson), is the kind of person who always puts others first. However, as she prepares for her bar exam and navigates a complicated relationship with her ex-boyfriend, she realizes that she needs to prioritize her own happiness for once.

Meanwhile, Quinn (played by Shaniqua Shandai) is a vivacious and adventurous woman who works as an interior designer. Quinn is in a happy relationship with a man who adores her, but she can't shake off her latent feelings for her ex-girlfriend. Shandai brings an infectious energy to the role of Quinn and injects a sense of fun into every scene she's in.

Finally, there's Tye (played by Grace Byers), a budding writer who's trying to get her work published. Despite having talent, Tye struggles with the fear of failure and vulnerability which hinders her progress in her career and personal life. Grace Byers delivers a nuanced performance as Tye, skillfully conveying the character's strengths and vulnerabilities.

As the four friends navigate the ups and downs of their respective careers and relationships, they come together to support each other through thick and thin. Harlem offers a refreshing take on the standard "girlfriends" trope, with characters who are complex, multi-dimensional, and unapologetically themselves. Camille, Angie, Quinn, and Tye are women who are not afraid to speak their minds or buck trends, and as a result, they feel like real people we might know in our everyday lives.

The show is also notable for its depiction of Harlem, a neighborhood that's steeped in history and culture. From the colorful murals on the walls to the bustling markets on the streets, the show does a great job of capturing the essence of the neighborhood. In particular, the show highlights the work of black artists and creatives, shining a light on the talent that is often overlooked.

All in all, Harlem is a charming and relatable series that's well worth a watch. The show is a fresh take on the "frienship" drama genre, with a stellar cast of actors and an emphasis on authenticity and representation. With its witty writing, nuanced performances, and celebration of black culture, Harlem is a true gem on Amazon Prime Video.

Harlem is a series that ran for 2 seasons (18 episodes) between December 3, 2021 and on Amazon Prime Video