There’s some magic in Washington Black.
Now available on Disney+, Washington Black tells the story of George Washington ‘Wash’ Black (Eddie Karanja), an 11-year-old boy born on a Barbados sugar plantation during the 19th Century. Buoyed by a sharp scientific mind, Wash quickly finds himself in what he believes to be a safe space to grow up. However, a harrowing incident forces him to flee, throwing him into a globe-spanning adventure. Later, as an adult, Wash (Ernest Kingsley Jr.) must still deal with the events of the past while trying to survive the confines of the society that he was born into.
Based on the bestselling novel of the same name, Washington Black is an enjoyable journey into history through fictional lenses. Loosely based on the life of Andrew Bogle, a formerly enslaved man who became a witness in a legal case, Washington is ultimately a delightful experience that encompasses multiple genres. Part steampunk adventure, part quest for justice and part epic romance, the series feels has an epic sprawl to its storytelling. Each episode carries itself with a spirit of adventure that is reminiscent of Treasure Island while using a visual creativity of Around the World in 80 Days that pops onscreen.
Yet, even though this miniseries travels the globe, it also keeps the story feeling personal. And, frankly, much of the series’ success lies in its split narrative. By freewheeling backwards and forwards in time, the series manages to play with its audience through entertaining reveals. Everyone in Washington has their secrets and, with each disclosure, the series fleshes out their journey just a little bit more. (Admittedly, this style can be jarring at times, but once the viewer adjusts to the series’ rhythm, they can enjoy the ride.)
What’s more, the series is carried by some energetic performances by its Wash’s. As the younger Wash, Karanja plays the role with innocent eyes. Every shocking turn in his childhood leaves scars upon his soul, but Karanja quietly observes and adapts along the way. It’s strong work, especially from a youth his age. However, at the same time, Kingsley Jr brings experience to his performance that feels genuine. As the elder version of a youth who has seen a lot in his life, there’s a certain strength behind his eyes. Yet, somehow, there’s still an optimism in his performance. Despite the stories of his past, the elder Wash is one who believes in his scientific vision and, of equal importance, in the realities of love.
Actually, one has to admit that Washington balances its topics and shifting tones in surprisingly effective ways. Make no mistake. This is a series that takes its eyes upon social justice very seriously. After all, this is a world set during the time of slavery and racial oppression and ensures to highlight some of the shadiest impulses of mankind. Yet, at the same time, Washington uses that setting to explore messages of hope. Young Wash is taught to find himself in a world that wishes to strip him of his identity and humanity. Meanwhile, his adult counterpart is fueled by his raw intelligence, despite the hatred and fear of those who would do him harm.
In fact, that same love of science plays a key role in this view of Washington. There’s a genuine sense here that there’s a magic to scientific discovery that provides hope for all humanity. Rather than hold on to political evils, Washington seems to believe that the wheels of progress best reveal the truths of the universe (and about ourselves). Here, the more we know about the world, the better we can appreciate ourselves.
Moreover, the fear that is held by the oppressors is what fuels their hatred. These are people who believe the world doesn’t need to change. And they’re willing to fight to protect the status quo in the worst of ways. But that’s the joy of truth in a series such as this. For those willing to see past the blinders of fiction, the realities of science truly doe challenge the ways of evil.
In short, Washington Black loves truth. And it believes that it really will set people free.
It’s that spirit of optimism that helps give life to Washington Black. Even in its darkest of moments (and the series is willing to get dark when it needs to do so), it still looks to a brighter future. Rather than exclusively beating down its characters to reveal the horrors of this world, Washington empowers and educates its characters (and the audience), pushing for the world to do better.
And, in Washington Black, that’s where magic truly lies.
Washington Black is available on Disney+ now.
