**Supacell Review – Superpowered Black Londoners Deliver an Absolute Riot**
When it comes to superpowers, flight and invisibility often top the list of most desirable abilities. As US writer John Hodgman once noted, those who choose flight are seen as selfless and unashamed, while those who opt for invisibility are often viewed as deceitful and fearful. However, the characters in Netflix’s new series “Supacell” don’t get to choose their powers. Instead, they find themselves suddenly endowed with supernatural abilities, leading to a whirlwind of chaos and self-discovery.
The series introduces us to a diverse group of Black Londoners who are thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Sweet nurse Sabrina (Nadine Mills) discovers she has telekinesis, young troublemaker Tazer (Josh Tedeku) can turn invisible, inept drug dealer Rodney (Calvin Demba) gains super speed, single dad Andre (Eric Kofi-Abrefa) possesses extraordinary strength, and the show’s central figure, Michael (Tosin Cole), can move through time and space.
Michael, recently engaged to his childhood sweetheart Dionne (Adelayo Adedayo), is the closest thing the show has to a traditional hero. He is a hard-working man with simple dreams of owning a car and a flat where he can watch “Love Island” with Dionne. However, his newfound abilities throw him into an existential crisis, as he grapples with the responsibilities and dangers that come with his powers.
Showrunner and lead director Rapman has crafted a sprawling sci-fi narrative that is both a riot and a deeply emotional journey. The series is strikingly performed and bracingly plotted, set to a sensational soundtrack that enhances the storytelling. Each of the five main characters is battling complex personal problems, making their superpowers both a blessing and a curse.
Michael’s arc is perhaps the most straightforward, as he seeks to protect his fiancée and navigate his new reality. Sabrina, on the other hand, is determined to shield her sister from the terrible men in her life. Tazer is aware that his path of gang rivalry could lead to deadly consequences. Andre, the most compelling character, struggles to hold down a job with a criminal record and prevent his teenage son from following in his footsteps.
The stakes are made clear early on, thanks to Michael’s time-traveling abilities, which reveal a catastrophic potential future. If these superpowered individuals can’t come together and defeat the dark forces targeting them, the future looks bleak, and loved ones will be lost. Unfortunately, the shadowy threat is led by a somewhat disengaged Eddie Marsan, whose performance lacks the intensity needed for such a pivotal role.
Despite this, the majority of the show focuses on the central misfits, drawing comparisons to the beloved Channel 4 show “Misfits,” even setting scenes in the same distinctive Thamesmead estate. However, “Supacell” manages to carve out its own identity, with characters’ lives realized in a way that rivals the best of contemporary prestige television. While it may not reach the heights of “Top Boy” in its portrayal of Black Britishness, it certainly holds its own.
The series is not your typical superhero origin story. Instead of focusing on truth, justice, and the American way, “Supacell” delves into the lives of individuals operating in a society where the odds are stacked against them. Their priority is to use their unexpected new tools to level the playing field and survive.
Action sequences are somewhat infrequent, often involving Michael and Rodney using their powers to escape trouble. However, the compelling and charming cast ensures that viewers will be eager for more battles in future episodes. They didn’t choose their powers or to save the day, but their powers chose them, making for an incredibly fun and engaging series.
“Supacell” is a refreshing take on the superhero genre, offering a unique perspective on what it means to have superpowers in a world that is far from ideal. The characters are relatable, their struggles are real, and their powers add an exciting twist to their everyday lives. With its strong performances, intricate plotting, and emotional depth, “Supacell” is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and superhero stories alike.
Source: Netflix
