It is a truth universally acknowledged that Netflix puts out some pretty amazing original content--from Orange is the New Black to Stranger Things, there's a TV show out there for anyone and everyone with their roommate's mom's account password on hand.
However, it's also pretty well known that Netflix doesn't always do the best job in advertising their shows; does anyone remember The Get Down? The heartfelt, stylish, and wholly engrossing series that follows a group of friends living in the Bronx during the '70s?
Unless you sought it out, you probably have never heard of it even though it got rave reviews and is a totally binge-worthy show. I was crushed when the series was canceled, and never want to have to go through that sort of heartbreak again...which is why I'm writing about On My Block.
A recently released series from Netflix, On My Block follows the trials and tribulations of a group of friends entering high school in LA. It's equal parts The OC, Big Mouth, The Get Down, and Teen Wolf, just without the werewolf shenanigans. In short, it's funny and heartbreaking and sweet and cheesy in just the right ways.
Every actor brings their A-game, and the plot lines are tight and smart. The show, which features a cast made up entirely of people of color, tackles important issues like gang violence and systematic racism while also balancing out the tough topics with humor, sentiment, and some good ol' drama. Plus, the soundtrack is fabulous (in fact, I'm listening to it while writing this very article!).
On My Block has not been renewed for a second season (yet!), so make sure to go check it out and support those viewer numbers so I'm not left obsessing over the cliffhanger end to the season; the show is streaming on Netflix now!