Woke (Les Engag

Woke, originally titled "Les Engagés," is an intriguing French web drama series that aired on Dekkoo platform from 2017 to 2018. Set against the backdrop of Lyon, the picturesque city in France, the plot delves deep into LGBTQ+ issues with a fresh perspective and sensitively unpacks the trials of self-discovery, acceptance, and the strive for societal inclusivity.

At first glance, Woke appears to revolve around the life of Hicham, a young man of 22 years, grappling with his sexual identity while navigating the societal, familial and personal prejudices related to homosexuality. It's an intimate exploration of his journey from denial and fear, to acceptance and self-affirmation, amid the complex realities of leading a homosexual life in modern society.

Focused on Hicham's journey, the plot takes a significant pivot as he unexpectedly flees his family and mundane life and catches a train to Lyon. Although escaping from the pressures of tradition and homophobia that he endures in his home, Hicham's decision also reflects a yearning for a life lived authentically and the freedom to love without barriers.

In Lyon, he seeks out Thibaut, a relentless LGBTQ+ rights activist. Thibaut, who is older and also openly gay, has dedicated his life to fighting for gay rights, leading a civil rights organization named Point G (G spot), known for staging protests and generating public awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. The dynamic and principled Thibaut instantly becomes Hicham's inspiration and guide as he gradually immerses himself in the world of activism.

At the core, Woke explores the characters’ evolution and the transition of Hicham from a closeted gay man to an outspoken advocate for gay rights. It offers viewers a close-up view of the French gay community's beauty and struggles, beautifully illustrating the power of self-expression, honesty, and solidarity.

Furthermore, this character-driven drama does not confine itself to the exploration of gay rights issues. It also touches upon other social and political themes like racism, socio-economic disparities, and the broad spectrum of sexual identities, effectively portraying a diverse, multifaceted LGBTQ+ community and its intersections with other marginalized groups. For example, notable plot elements involve the recognition and acceptance of bisexuality and the shifting dynamics of power and privilege within the activists' community itself.

The actors have adroitly captured the essence of their characters. Mehdi Meskar as Hicham adds a layer of sensitivity to his character with powerful and nuanced performance, and Eric Pucheu as Thibaut delivers a captivating portrayal of the activist with his spirited, compelling acting skills. The supporting cast effectively contributes to the narrative flow with their solid performances.

The show's title, "Woke," refers to the state of being aware, especially regarding social and political injustices. Fittingly, this series works to unveil the layers of discrimination, prejudice, and in-fighting faced by the LGBTQ+ community from within and outside.

The series is all about connection - to self, to community, and to the ongoing fight for recognition and acceptance. It's a story that recognizes the vibrancy and strength of the LGBTQ+ community while also acknowledging its vulnerabilities. The series has invested in maintaining a balance between drama and realism, with every episode adding to the richness of the narrative.

Created by Sullivan Le Postec, Woke is characterized by Le Postec's trademark style of engaging storytelling that impels viewers to ponder, question and empathize. The thought-provoking dialogue, stunning cinematography, and compelling performances create a powerful impact and contribute to its success as an engaging web series that successfully mirrors many harsh realities of society.

Comprised of two seasons, Woke, despite its intense theme, is an accessible watch that strikes chords of emotion and identifies in viewers the potential to empathize, understand, and resonate with its lead characters.

In conclusion, Woke is an enchanting blend of social commentary, self-discovery, and activism, seamlessly interwoven with a simple but profound narrative. Viewers of Woke are invited to embark on a journey of understanding the trials and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community through an impactful storyline. Woke challenges its viewers to question their perspectives and positions within societal norms, effectively demonstrating the show's commitment to provoking thought, empathy, and understanding.