Black Earth Rising

Black Earth Rising is an evocative and intimate exploration of historical trauma and its implications on personal identity and international politics. This Netflix original series first appeared on screens in 2018, starring Michaela Coel, John Goodman, Harriet Walter, and Olivier Rabourdin. The show skillfully combines aspects of political thriller and legal drama genres while also maintaining thoughtful discourse on moral philosophy, personal healing, and global conflict.

Delving into some of the most bleak and tragic aspects of history, Black Earth Rising primarily explores the Rwandan genocide, its aftermath, and the trials that followed. Central to the narrative is Kate Ashby (Michaela Coel), who was orphaned during the Rwandan genocide and adopted by Eve Ashby (Harriet Walter), a renowned British international prosecutor. As an adult, Kate has grown into an investigative researcher working for Michael Ennis (John Goodman), a grizzled yet compassionate American lawyer.

The story sparkles into motion when Eve decides to prosecute an African militia leader at the International Criminal Court, setting off a series of events that will propel Kate into a dangerous journey across continents. This act puts Kate in a complex battle of truth-seeking and self-discovery that makes her question everything she believes about herself and her past.

Michaela Coel is at the heart of the series, offering a captivating portrayal of Kate. She delivers a nuanced performance that deals with the struggles of her character’s traumatic past, her search for her place in the world, and her quest for truth and justice. John Goodman, Harriet Walter, and Olivier Rabourdin are equally dynamic in their roles, with each character tangibly contributing to the intricate web of personal and political tensions within the plot.

Kate's struggle for personal identity is paralleled by a wider discussion on global post-colonial identity, primarily focusing on Africa and its relationship with the Western world. The show offers a critique of the Western intervention in African politics and law, and views on the notion of international justice.

Black Earth Rising delves into ugly truths about international politics and conflict, the exploitation of African resources, and the enduring ripple effects of colonization. It cogently questions the functionality and biases of international law while highlighting various implications of the West's involvement in African affairs.

Despite its heavy themes and intense dramatic tension, Black Earth Rising manages to intersperse its narratives with moments of levity. Goodman's character, with his sarcastic wit and fatherly kindness, serves as a source of light humor amidst the drama. Kate's personal journey is also punctuated by moments of self-discovery and healing that offer hope amidst the bleakness.

Created and directed by Hugo Blick, the show is also visually striking. The cinematography is often bold and experimental, echoing the narrative's synthetic fusion of personal drama and international political thriller. From the war-torn fields of Rwanda to the polished courtrooms of London and Paris, the visual aesthetic of the series contributes significantly to the overall narrative.

The show’s use of flashback techniques extends the plot backwards into history, allowing viewers to get a glimpse into Kate’s lost past and the horrifying events that led to her present. These glimpses are cunningly weaved into the storyline, subtly contributing to the overall narrative flow.

In conclusion, Black Earth Rising is more than a legal or political drama. It is an audacious exploration of the human experience in a post-genocide context. A deep contemplation on identity, global politics, law, and history, wrapped in a personal narrative about finding one’s place in the world. Its gripping storytelling, combined with stellar performances and stunning cinematography, make it a must-watch for those seeking a challenging, thought-provoking, and emotionally charged viewing experience.