Cherish the Day

Cherish the Day is an engaging and poignantly crafted drama series produced under the umbrella of the Oprah Winfrey Network. The unique anthology series, which premiered in 2020, is a testament to the concept of telling riveting stories one day at a time. Co-created by Ava DuVernay, an acclaimed director recognised for her work on "Selma" and "When They See Us," and produced by Oprah Winfrey, the show exhibits a passionate celebration of Black love, life, and relationships.

Every season of Cherish the Day charts the gripping romance of one couple, with each episode spanning a single day. In this way, the audience is granted an intimate view into the significant moments that combine to shape a thriving relationship over time. This groundbreaking narrative structure uncovers and investigates the minutiae of daily life, drawing mesmerizing drama from the everyday triumphs and trials that mark a couple's evolution.

The first season of Cherish the Day introduces viewers to Evan (Alano Miller) and Gently (Xosha Roquemore), two individuals living in Los Angeles, whose lives intersect in an unlikely manner. Evan is an affluent and successful businessman, whereas Gently has a rough yet independent character, shaped by a nomadic and somewhat turbulent upbringing. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, an inescapable chemistry starts to build between them, evolving into a moving relationship traced over five years.

Notable side characters contribute further depth and complexity to the storyline, including Luma Langston, played by the authoritative Cicely Tyson. Her character becomes instrumental in providing enriching life insights and dispensing wisdom, based on her rich, seven-decade-long career.

Part of the charm of Cherish the Day lies in the series' ability to bridge generational gaps and explore diverse perspectives. It meticulously unfolds a heartwarming tale that intertwines love, endurance, and growth, providing familiarity and freshness simultaneously to viewers, irrespective of their age or background.

The influence of DuVernay's strong storytelling and inclusive casting decisions is palpable in Cherish the Day. The relevance of cultural nuances and the authenticity of lived experiences is evident throughout the series, contributing to the richness of the narrative and character development. The struggles, triumphs, and norms of Black daily life are portrayed with sensitivity and realism, offering an honest depiction of Black love that is rarely seen on mainstream television.

The series extends beyond mere love story clichés, deploying a more profound exploration into human relationships. The intricacies of trust-building, dealing with emotional baggage, striking a balance between personal desires and responsibilities, and navigating differences become central themes, effectively resonating with the audience.

Technically, the show impresses with its attention to artistic detail. The cinematography invites viewers into the intimate moments, landscapes, and spaces shared by the characters, while the carefully-selected soundtrack provides emotional resonance, underscoring pivotal scenes beautifully.

Cherish the Day is a thoughtful examination of love, loss, personal growth, and commitment that breaks the mold of typical television dramas. It caters to viewers who desire dynamic, authentic, and representation-centered narratives, offering impactful stories rooted in everyday reality. The series is an invitation to feel, contemplate, and most importantly, to understand and cherish the unfolding of life, one day at a time.

In its essence, Cherish the Day manages to convey a universally relatable message: that every day, every moment holds the potential for something transformative. The series unfolds quietly yet powerfully, asserting love's capability to change lives and challenge preconceived social norms. An auspicious endeavour from DuVernay and her talented team, Cherish the Day opens up conversations about love, resilience, cultural complexity, and the human capacity for change and growth.