Colin in Black & White

"Colin in Black & White" is a poignant, gripping, and thought-provoking drama series that debuted on Netflix in 2021. This biographical miniseries, directed by Ava DuVernay, is centered on the early life and career of Colin Kaepernick, the renowned former NFL quarterback who is best known for his peaceful protest against racial injustice by kneeling during the national anthem.

The semi-fictional series is narrated and co-created by Kaepernick himself and showcases the experiences of his youth that led him to become a civil rights advocate and an influential character in American sports culture. Notably, it blends elements of both drama and documentary, giving a profound insight into Kaepernick's journey and sparking conversations about racial dynamics, cultural identity, and social injustice.

With Jaden Michael flawlessly portraying the young Colin Kaepernick, the narrative foregrounds his high school years as a biracial child adopted by a white family, living in his predominantly white neighborhood of Turlock, in California. Through the honest lens of the series, viewers witness the racial and societal turmoil young Colin faces, giving a broader understanding of the depths of his convictions that subsequently inspire his activism.

Mary-Louise Parker and Nick Offerman, two of the most highly commended television artists, skillfully portray Teresa and Rick Kaepernick, Colin's adopted parents. Their performances add layers to the dynamic and complex relationship between a white couple and their biracial son, while at times engaging in moments of light-hearted family camaraderie as well as stark confrontations in the shadow of their different lived experiences.

As it injects reality with dramatization, "Colin in Black & White" is much more than a customary biographical sports drama. It underlines the interpretative differences between races through inconspicuous, everyday instances and addresses the deep-seated prejudices that can distort and influence perceptions. At intervals, Colin seamlessly appears on screen to provide his own commentary on notable moments, highlighting significant aspects, and further deepening our understanding of his lived experiences.

One of the crucial facets of the series lies in its portrayal of Kaepernick's passion for football. The quarterback's early struggles with racial identity and acceptance are mirrored in his experience in the sports industry, where his potential as an athlete often intersects with the stereotypes and racial prejudices that pervade American society.

Under Ava DuVernay's adept stewardship, combined with Kaepernick's distinct voice, the series is not subtle about its intention to educate and inform. "Colin in Black & White" provokes conversations rather than merely depicting Colin's story. It courageously tackles systemic racism, both overt and covert, while also exploring the theme of authenticity and dedication towards one's dreams.

In terms of aesthetic, the series successfully juxtaposes the contemporary with the nostalgic – the color grading throughout fluctuates between vivid, saturated tones to symbolize the present, and desaturated, grainy images to evoke the past.

The soundtrack, similarly, plays a vital role in setting the tone for the series and is artfully woven into its narrative. It ranges from classic pop hits to more contemporary pieces, acting as an audible signal for the series' movement through time. Several motifs are also repetitively used, a creative choice that emphasizes certain moments and emotions.

With each episode, the series delves into interpreting how societal norms, family, race, and the concept of the American dream shaped Colin Kaepernick's life and career. "Colin in Black & White" is a critical exploration of America's social fabric - it's a story of sports, politics, race, and identity that authentically represents Kaepernick’s commitment to fight racial injustice, while also promising inspiration, resilience, and a valuable perspective on his life and journey.

Ambitious and audacious, "Colin in Black & White" is a significant addition to the growing plethora of television discourse on race in America, offering a distinctive mix of biographical exploration, social critique, and a gentle reminder of the intrinsic role of sports in social and political spheres.