All American (#1 on Netflix Today)

Feast your eyes on the beautiful people of Beverly Hills and the troubled, poor but equally pretty folks in South Crenshaw. The two seasons of this show on Netflix tell the story of a kid who lives in South Crenshaw hood but gets a chance to go to Beverly Hills High to play football. Its loosely based on a true story based around Football, teenage growing pains, and most of all the big gang violence in the hold. Done in a soap opera style, this show manages to rise above the atypical high school tv show particularly in it’s much stronger first season. Season 1 is more based on the hero Spencer’s life – a conflict between his new friends in Beverly hills and the tug of his old violent neighborhood. Many pretty characters come and go while Spencer’s team triumphs to the State championship. I don’t even have to tell you who they will end up playing there— that part is quite predictable as the season unfolds. Season 2 is darker with a few murders and character deaths but still pushing the message of hope to all. Less exciting football play. I would recommend this show to anyone who is looking for mindless, harmless, and sometimes very heartfelt entertainment. Additionally, back in January of 2020 the show was renewed for a Season 3, so catch up while you can!