All American
By Reagan Razon - Guest Contributor
All American is definitely my All Time favorite show. It’s refreshing to have such a diverse cast, with an even more diverse background. The show gives a firsthand look at the differences between life in Crenshaw (south LA) and life in Beverly Hills. Even if you don’t understand football, trust me you need to watch this! The underlying topics of racism, gentrification, and gun violence are all covered in this show, but through a real lens. The directors don’t really sugarcoat anything, like other shows that have previously tried to do this and failed. Viewers get a look at how teenagers navigate high school life, family drama, relationships, and mental health. And not in the cheesy, lame attempt at earning “brownie points” way. Drug addiction is something that is shown but not shied away from and I think this portrayal is important to fight the stigmas of those struggling with substance abuse. This show always leaves me on the edge of my seat waiting for more (which is probably why I finished watching season 2 in one day). Aside from the show, the soundtrack is amazing! They pay homage to the late Nipsey Hussle, who was a rapper and activist born and raised in Crenshaw. Tied together with great camera work, plot twists, and heart-wrenching moments, the music sets the stage for All-American.
logline: When star wide receiver of Crenshaw High School suddenly transfers to affluent Beverly Hills High for football, the two seemingly different worlds collide. Spencer James develops new relationships and opportunities while also being faced with racism, heartache and tough decisions. Inspired by the life of pro football player Spencer Paysinger.
My favorite characters:
Samantha Logan as Olivia Baker - not to be confused with the mom from 13 reasons why but olivia baker deserves the worlddd, or maybe i just resonate with her because she is a twin like me LOL. her loving and honest character is definitely what the show needs, but she needs more screen time imo.
Greta Onieogou as Layla Keating- her character is portrayed as the perfect “it” girl, but we all know there’s more to that. she’s gone through a lot but despite that she still opens up her heart to Spencer and Olivia, and i love their friendship
Hunter Clowdus as JJ Parker - hunter clowdus EMBODIES the classic frat boy, life of the party character. he manages to get away with the craziest things, but ngl it would be so fun to attend one of his house parties.
This show is rated TV-14. Here’s why:
Sexual References
Use of Alcohol and Drugs
Blood and Violence
Fun Fact: Main character and football superstar Spencer James, portrayed by Daniel Ezra, has a British accent! In fact, he is originally from Birmingham, United Kingdom and did not grow up playing or watching American football before working with CW. It’s amazing how he perfected his all-american accent, both on and off set. Click here to watch his interview with E!
Where to Watch:
theCW
Netflix
fuboTV
YouTube, Vudu, and Google Play Store for purchase
Number of Seasons: 2, Season 3 returning this fall on the CW.