Godfather of Harlem premiered in 2019 on Epix. The show, set in the 1960s, is a dramatization of the true story of the famous Harlem crime boss Bumpy Johnson, played brilliantly by Forest Whitaker. The series is produced by Chris Brancato and Paul Eckstein, the team behind the critically acclaimed Narcos series on Netflix. If you are a fan of great crime dramas, then Godfather of Harlem is a must-watch, especially in its new third season.

Godfather of Harlem offers a fresh take on a well-worn genre by focusing on the often-overlooked story of Bumpy Johnson and his efforts to maintain power in a world of shifting alliances and complex political machinations. With its exceptional writing, acting, visuals, and music, Godfather of Harlem is a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
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Gritty and Realistic

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The Godfather of Harlem is set in 1963, a time when racial tensions were high in New York City. Bumpy Johnson returns from a decade-long stint in prison to find that the Italian mob has taken over his neighborhood of Harlem. With the help of his former protégé Malcolm X, played by Nigel Thatch, Bumpy sets out to reclaim his turf and restore order to the streets.

The show is set against the backdrop of real historical events, such as the Civil Rights Movement and the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The showrunners do an excellent job of creating a world that feels authentic and lived in. The sets and costumes are meticulously researched, and the attention to detail is impressive. The series also doesn’t shy away from the ugly realities of racism and violence in 1960s America, which makes for some intense and powerful moments.

Compelling Characters

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One of the strengths of Godfather of Harlem is its cast of characters. Forest Whitaker gives a standout performance as Bumpy Johnson, a complex and layered character who is both a ruthless gangster and a loving family man. Nigel Thatch is equally impressive as Malcolm X, bringing a gravitas and intensity to the role that captures the historical figure’s spirit. The rest of the ensemble cast is also excellent, with Vincent D’Onofrio, Ilfenesh Hadera, and Lucy Fry all delivering strong performances.

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The characters in Godfather of Harlem are all driven by their own desires and motivations, which makes for some excellent conflict and drama. Bumpy is torn between his loyalty to his family and his desire to protect his community. Malcolm X is grappling with his own growing disillusionment with the Nation of Islam and his desire for change. The Italian mobsters are ruthless and cunning, but also have their own vulnerabilities and weaknesses.

Themes of Power and Redemption

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At its core, Godfather of Harlem is a story about power and redemption. Bumpy Johnson is a man who has spent most of his life in the criminal underworld, but he also has a strong sense of justice and a desire to do what is right. Malcolm X is a man who is fighting for change and equality, but also struggling with his own demons. The series explores these themes in a nuanced and thought-provoking way, without ever feeling preachy or heavy-handed.

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The show also does an excellent job of exploring the idea of redemption. Bumpy Johnson has done terrible things in his life, but he is also a man who wants to make amends and do better. The series doesn’t excuse his past actions, but it also doesn’t condemn him to a life of eternal damnation. Instead, it shows that even the most flawed and damaged individuals can strive for redemption and find some measure of peace.

Stylish Looks and Sounds

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Godfather of Harlem is a stylish and visually impressive series. The showrunners have clearly put a lot of thought and care into the show’s direction and cinematography. The series has a distinct look and feel, with its use of color and lighting adding to the show’s overall aesthetic.

One of the standout elements of Godfather of Harlem’s cinematography is its use of handheld camera work. This technique creates a sense of immediacy and urgency in the show’s action scenes, making them feel all the more intense and thrilling. Additionally, the show’s use of slow motion and quick cuts during these sequences further enhances the visual impact.

This all works in addition to the show’s attention to detail when it comes to recreating its historical setting. The series is set in the 1960s, and the showrunners have taken great care to ensure that everything from the costumes to the sets accurately reflect the era. This level of detail immerses viewers in the world of the show and adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story being told.

Godfather of Harlem is a visually stunning show, with the recreation of 1960s Harlem done with remarkable attention to detail, from the period costumes to the vintage cars and music. The show’s cinematography is also noteworthy for its use of tight framing and creative camera angles to heighten the sense of claustrophobia and tension in certain scenes. The end result is a wonderfully gripping crime drama that’s only seemed to get better with its third season.