Somebodies

Somebodies is a remarkable television series that aired on Black Entertainment Television (BET) from September 2008 to February 2009. The show, the first scripted comedy series to air on BET, is primarily a portrayal of African American college life, filled with humor and thought-provoking messages on societal and personal issues. Somebodies tells the story of a group of friends as they navigate college life in Georgia, with an emphasis on the challenges and triumphs faced by the protagonist, Scottie.

Scottie, performed excellently by Hadjii Hand, is a contemplative college student with a pragmatic viewpoint. He usually finds himself between a rock and a hard place while dealing with everyday societal pressures, expectations, and situations. His character sets the tone for the series, with his balanced perspective of life that reflects a passive resistance to stereotypes while highlighting the joys, hilarities, and frustrations of regular, everyday experiences.

Somebodies, in its narrative style, takes a satirical approach, demonstrating humor in its candid exploration of life experiences. The show takes on relationships, friendships, religion, culture, ambition, societal norms, and expectations through the lens of these young Black individuals. There is a blend of both the facetious and the serious moments, creating a mix that balances reality with humor-causing events.

The show also introduces a number of fascinating characters, each with a unique personality that distinctly sets them apart. There is Scottie's eccentric family, including his religious, Bible-quoting Aunt Agnes and overly protective Grandma. Then, there are his friends who each represent different attitudes towards life - there's "Marlo", the chaotically intelligent one, "Six" stands out as the ultimate enjoyer of college life, and "Divine" devoutly religious. Their interactions enliven the series, setting the stage for various comical interplays, dramatic instances, and thought-provoking dialogues.

One unique feature of Somebodies is its ability to challenge Western societal norms and expectations. The protagonist, Scottie, avoids the lifestyle of a typical college student and does not conform to societal labels. He doesn't take part in any extracurricular activities, parties, or any perceived successful life route usually taken by others. Yet he exudes confidence and adherence to his life choices. Through him, the show subtly questions societal conventions while integrating humor in its delivery.

Notably, the series began as an indie film by the same name in 2006, written and directed by Hadjii, who also stars as the lead actor in the later television adaptation. The success of the Sundance Film Festival premiered indie film led to BET picking it up and adapting it into a television series. The transformation of Somebodies from an indie film to a network series was touted as a significant achievement, with BET hailing it as the network's first scripted series.

Somebodies is not the usual African American centered show, as it deviates from commonly portrayed narratives about African American life, such as overcoming major adversities or focusing on life in deprived areas. Instead, Somebodies celebrates Blackness in everyday life, intertwining humor with scenarios of everyday living without any extreme or extraordinary elements. It embodies reality in its raw form, portraying characters that audiences can relate to, delve into their complexities, experience their struggles, and enjoy their triumphs.

Overall, the show’s blend of laughter, reality, drama and an unconventional narrative creates an engaging watch for viewers interested in a depth-filled comedy. Unfortunately, Somebodies ran only for one season, comprising ten fun-filled, thought-provoking episodes. Despite its short run, the show remains a unique representation of the intersection between everyday experiences, societal pressures, and cultural differences – one that has left an indelible impact on its viewers and continues to be appreciated by audiences for its unique point of view.