Latest news with #Wash
India Today
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Washington Black review: A well-crafted show on racism, dreamers and science
George Washington 'Wash' Black, a young enslaved boy turned fugitive inventor, is on a roller-coaster journey from a brutal Barbados plantation to an independent lifestyle. The heart of the drama series 'Washington Black' is young Wash's transformation from a curious child to a brilliant, self-determined show, adapted from Esi Edugyan's novel of the same name, is a vibrant, ambitious tale about those who dare to dream irrespective of overwhelming obstacles. Creator Selwyn Seyfu Hinds metaphorically makes a commentary on human connection, sense of community and solidarity in a world driven by chaos, toxicity, cruelty and Karanja and Ernest Kingsley Jr as young and adult Washington Black, respectively, lead the show with their impeccable acting prowess. 'Washington Black' is not just another series about the evils of slavery and imperialism. Hinds makes a larger statement about emotional freedom, mental liberation, friendship and closure. The actors on-board have done a commendable job by performing in sync with the creators' vision. A story that comes from a hard-hitting theme can often label the characters as good and evil, us vs them. However, the show never deviates from the human lens and brings out the vulnerable side of the most morally complex characters. The series is presented through non-linear storytelling in a unique way while retaining the engagement quotient. Its narrative has a profound universal connection which makes it open to different interpretations. While the show is slightly a bit over-stretched to unravel all the aspects related to the novel, certain repetitive scenes and situations could have been edited. However, 'Washington Black' still remains a thoroughly engaging show about human resilience which feels relatable to millennials as well as Gen Zs. It is a story meant for those searching for answers about life's complexities while facing everyday challenges and obstacles.A tale of the endearing human spiritRacial discrimination and slavery are no new themes to art and literature, yet worth exploring. In a progressive society rooting for scientific and social advancement, it is essential to debate and discuss the events that scarred humanity in the past. 'Washington Black' does the same in its own way without getting preachy. As an Indian viewer and an inquisitive student of politics and history, you are reminded of British colonialism and American expansionism. But what more it does cinematically to make the audience realise, not to take privilege for granted.'Washington Black' makes one believe in the strength of positivity and optimism amid all the hate and negativity making the noise. Wash's relationships with Medwin (Sterling K Brown), Miss Angie (Sharon Duncan-Brewster) and his intimate romance with Tanna (Iola Evans) is a testament to the sentiment of love and compassion that goes beyond community and gender. The show not just honours the struggles of the protagonist but also his human desires and and Kinglsey Jr delve deep into the psyche of Wash, which helps in elevating the character development throughout the series. Even though the show is based on one individual's journey, the other characters are given equal space and importance. Brown and Brewster add to the emotional weight through their grounded portrayals. Evans doesn't just end up as a love interest but succeeds in bringing a new perspective to the narrative. Tom Ellis as Christopher 'Titch' Wilde also plays his role with the utmost issue of women being caged and not allowed to pursue careers in order to get married has been done to death. Yet, Evans brings an impactful screen presence while depicting the emotional struggles of a young girl wanting to be free. Hinds smartly crafts a narrative where he connects all the dots. The audience get the message about how we are all riding the same boat, trying to be free of the shackles set by trailer here: More than emotions and social commentaryTo someone inspired by great minds like Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Martin Luther King Jr, 'Washington Black' would have a deep impact. We have had great cinema on racial themes, like '12 Years a Slave', 'The Great Debaters' and 'One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest'. However, Hinds in his show creates stunning visuals and an enriching narrative by blending the adventurous theme with science. Without any monologues, the viewers get the most beautiful message about how science and creativity can lead to the most unexpected partnerships and society treats science and the arts as opposing disciplines, but young Wash, who excels in his scientific studies and sketching, sets a beautiful example. A young boy who studies and dreams despite all the hardships reminds one of the struggles of Dr Kalam and Dr BR Ambedkar. The ability to prove one's worth in a world that is hell-bent on crushing your dreams is what makes a great success story on rising from lines stay with you, such as, "No matter how strong the bondage, we never stop pushing back. We fight," and the scientific spirit of "Observe, record and engineer." If only the world was inclined towards discovering scientific mysteries and creating artistic brilliance, there would be no room for infighting or toxicity. A beautiful message that 'Washington Black' narrates through eight episodes.'Washington Black' is meant for all those who like to experience a roller-coaster of emotions. The Hulu series is available for streaming on JioHotstar in India.- Ends4 out of 5 stars
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Codex Labs to Exhibit at The Society for Pediatric Dermatology's 50th Annual Meeting
Seattle, Wash. - July 22nd, 2025 - Codex Labs, a biotech skincare company focused on microbiome-friendly solutions, is honored to participate in The Society for Pediatric Dermatology's (SPD) 50th Annual Meeting. Taking place from July 23rd to 26th at The Westin Seattle, the event will celebrate five decades of advancing pediatric dermatology through education, research, and collaboration. "Codex Labs is delighted to be attending The Society for Pediatric Dermatology's 50th Annual Meeting and presenting a novel plant-based biotech eczema lotion and cleanser for children as young as 3 weeks old,' says founder and CEO Dr. Barbara Paldus. 'We believe that these new topicals, when combined and targeted with pre- and probiotics, will usher in a future of highly effective, steroid-free alternatives for the management of pediatric atopic dermatitis." The SPD comprises over 1,800 members worldwide, including pediatricians, dermatologists, pediatric dermatologists, and other healthcare professionals. At this year's milestone 50th SPD Annual Meeting, Codex Labs will be one of many organizations gathering to support the advancement of pediatric dermatology. The SPD's 50th Annual Meeting will take place over four days and feature networking opportunities, support group discussions, lecture sessions, companies and exhibitors showcasing their products, and organizations dedicated to pediatric dermatology research and advancement. Some key topics highlighted at this year's meeting include infections, medications and therapies, psoriasis and inflammatory skin conditions, tumors and neoplasms, vascular lesions, and more. Codex Labs will be attending this year's 50th Annual Meeting and sponsoring the Early Career Networking Reception on Wednesday, July 23rd at 6:00 pm. This event is for medical doctors completing a fellowship or those out of training for five years or less, where they can share experiences and connect with other young dermatologists. Dr. Jessica Maloh, Naturopathic Doctor and Head of Naturopathic Medicine at Codex Labs, will be attending the event and presenting a research poster that highlights the use of oral probiotics as adjunctive interventions for acne. 'Acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting adolescents, often impacting not only the skin, but also self-esteem and quality of life,' says Dr. Maloh. 'At the SPD, I'm excited to share a summary of the research on the adjunctive use of oral probiotics in acne management- an intervention that may complement conventional dermatologic treatments like antibiotics and oral isotretinoin. Integrative strategies like this have been found to enhance acne treatment efficacy while also supporting the gut microbiome.' Codex Labs is honored to participate in the 50th Annual Meeting and looks forward to showcasing its products and findings. Dr. Maloh invites guests to the Networking Reception and to visit her team's presentation to learn more about their skincare breakthroughs and the latest in integrative dermatology research. Event Details: Location: The Westin Seattle, located at 1900 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101. For more information about Codex Labs and its products, please visit If you are interested in learning more about Codex Labs' participation in The SPD's 50th Annual Meeting, please contact About Codex Labs: Based in Silicon Valley and led by scientist Dr. Barb Paldus, Codex Labs is committed to creating highly effective, clinically proven, microbiome-supporting skin-gut-brain-biome solutions that contain potent, biotech-derived plant-based actives. Codex Labs' products focus on restoring/protecting the skin barrier, managing inflammation, and addressing skin conditions associated with aging, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The brand has been heralded by integrative dermatologists and naturopathic doctors for creating the next generation of effective, vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable plant-based solutions.
Tom's Guide
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
7 top new movies and shows to stream this weekend on Netflix, Hulu and more (July 25-27)
The last weekend of July has arrived, and with the heat cranking up, the smart move seems to be staying in with the new movies and shows to watch this weekend on Netflix, Hulu and other streaming services. This week offers a little bit of everything. "Happy Gilmore 2" tees up a sequel nearly three decades in the making, while "Materialists" puts a fresh take on the rom-com scene. On the TV front, "South Park" returns with its usual sharp satire, and "The Sandman" closes out its haunting, high-stakes story. Here are our top picks for new TV shows to watch this weekend. Happy Gilmore is back, and not much has changed — he's still yelling at golf balls and swinging like he's trying to kill someone. Nearly 30 years after the original, Adam Sandler returns to tee off, this time to help pay for his daughter's ballet school. Julie Bowen, Ben Stiller and Christopher McDonald are back, too, and Bad Bunny and Travis Kelce somehow ended up in the mix. Plot details are thin, but based on the trailer, we're in for a mix of rage and ridiculousness. Streaming now on Netflix Celine Song trades the bittersweet ache of her Oscar-nominated feature debut 'Past Lives' for a fresh, sly twist on a romantic comedy. Dakota Johnson stars as a high-end matchmaker in New York who gets tangled up in her own romantic conundrum — caught between her broke actor ex (Chris Evans) and a too-good-to-be-true millionaire (Pedro Pascal). Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. 'Materialists' asks the age-old question: love or money? In modern dating, you can't have it all and something's gotta give. Streaming now with purchase on Amazon or Apple This sweeping limited series traces the remarkable journey of a boy who refuses to let the world write his story for him. Born into bondage on a Barbados sugar plantation, young Wash (played by Eddie Karanja and later Ernest Kingsley Jr.) finds an unlikely ally in a quirky inventor (Tom Ellis) who helps him escape. What follows is a far-reaching adventure, complete with flying machines, bounty hunters and Arctic expeditions. Through it all, Wash learns some painful truths about freedom. Adapted from Esi Edugyan's celebrated novel, the series is anchored by Sterling K. Brown as both narrator and protector. All 8 episodes streaming now on Hulu Dream (Tom Sturridge) has broken the ultimate taboo for the Endless — he took the life of his own son. Now, in volume 2, the consequences come crashing down. The Kindly Ones are on the hunt, the Dreaming is falling apart and Morpheus must face the heavy price of compassion. These final five episodes push the saga to its edge, with Dream confronting gods, monsters and the weight of centuries-old pride. Even Destiny (Adrian Lester) can't guarantee escape. And as the story winds down, next week's bonus episode featuring Death (Kirby Howell-Baptiste) offers a final, heartbreaking touch. All 5 episodes streaming now on Netflix Grab a cocktail to toast one last trip to "Acapulco." In its final season, the bilingual comedy jumps between present-day Máximo (Eugenio Derbez) trying to bring Las Colinas back to life, and 1986, where young Máximo (Enrique Arrizon) is pulling every trick in the book to reclaim the hotel's top spot in Acapulco. This is a paradise filled with neon, nostalgia and bittersweet decisions. Máximo will have his hands full in both timelines. Episodes 1-2 streaming now on Apple TV Plus A lot of uncertainty surrounded 'South Park" season 27. Just hours after Paramount announced a $1.5 billion, 50-episode deal with creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the season premiered amid ongoing tensions between the creators and their corporate parent. Despite behind-the-scenes drama — including Paramount's controversial dealings with the Trump administration and the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's show — the series stays as sharp, irreverent, and unapologetic as ever. Episode 1 streaming now on Paramount Plus Imagine if Indiana Jones and Zoolander had an absurdly hilarious animated lovechild — that's Rip Digman. Andy Samberg's down-on-his-luck archaeologist is back for more wild adventures, drug-fueled globe-trotting and ridiculous ancient artifact escapades. Mitra Jouhari, Tim Robinson, Melissa Fumero, and the usual gang return, alongside a jaw-dropping lineup of guest stars like Mark Hamill, Kate Winslet and Jeffrey Wright. Episode 1 streaming on demand via Sling or Fubo)
The Review Geek
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Review Geek
Washington Black – Season 1 Episode 7 'J'ouvert Morning' Recap & Review
J'ouvert Morning Episode 7 of Washington Black starts with a young Jack passing out in the snowstorm. He has a vision of meeting Kit in Dahomey. Kit asks him to stay with her, but Jack chooses to live. Presently in Halifax, Tanna nurses Jack to health. As soon as he wakes up, he asks about Billard. Jack is relieved to hear of Billard's death and his subsequent freedom. He thanks Tanna for saving him, and they start kissing. Medwin interrupts to talk to Jack. He acknowledges Tanna's love for Jack and explains why he can't be with Angie. As it turns out, Angie is his best friend's widow, and Medwin feels guilty for loving her. However, Jack challenges him to embrace those feelings. Medwin takes this advice and goes to Angie. He confesses he is tired of running, and they finally kiss. Meanwhile, Tanna convinces her dad to bring Jack with them to London. She uses Jack's aquarium to negotiate her terms. Her dad agrees to bring Jack to London to the RSL as long as he gets some credit for Jack's aquarium. Tanna agrees as long as Jack gets his credit, too. Goff hesitantly agrees and promises to convince the influential members to make Jack the first Black member of the RSL if they win. Soon, Angie and Medwin say their goodbyes to Jack and Tanna. Jack takes back his name as George Washington Black. (From this point, we will refer to him as Wash, too.) In London, Wash allows Goff to present his aquarium at the RSL exposition. On the day of the exposition, Wash meets Peter again. Peter is one of the esteemed members of RSL and is immensely proud of Wash's achievement. In a flashback, we return to the Arctic immediately after Titch and Wash left. Wilde went out to look for them, but the snowstorm proved to be too strong for the old man. Wash is rescued by a native couple while Wilde goes to look for Titch. Unfortunately, Wilde hurts his legs, but at least gets to experience the Northern Lights. By the time Wilde is rescued, he is too weak. Peter tries to make him comfortable in his last moments. Before his death, Wash confronts Wilde about his treatment of Titch. Wilde shares a few words with Wash. These are the words he wished he had told Titch before he left. After Wilde's death, Peter gives the RSL briefcase to Wash. The native couple asks Wash to stay with them, but he refuses. Peter shows him a map of Nova Scotia and tells him he will be free there. Before Wash travels back, Peter takes a picture of him. Currently in London, Wash introduces Tanna to Peter. Peter talks about the abolition of slavery and the resale of the Faith plantation. He notes that Wash could find more information on Kit if he visits the Wilde's property in Hampshire. Wash's aquarium wins the science expo, but Goff takes full credit for the invention. He tries to act like he is doing Wash a favour and refuses to acknowledge he did something wrong. Tanna confronts and cuts her ties with him. Wash also agrees he doesn't need Goff to make a name for himself in the science world. After the expo, Tanna and Wash visit the Wilde residency in Hampshire. There, Wash reunites with Gaius, who invites them in. Sadly, Kit passed seven years ago in 1830. According to the records, Kit was Wash's biological mother. The Episode Review I was hoping for a happy reunion, but it looks like we won't be getting that. It must be painful for Wash to learn of Kit's death and her identity as his mom at the same time. He lived all his life thinking he was an orphan. He must feel betrayed by Kit, but also frustrated that he can't get answers from her. Why did Kit hide the fact that she is his mom from him? It is not surprising that Goff took advantage of Wash. He wanted the glory but lost his daughter in return. Is it even worth it? Of course, Wash had no expectations because he saw it coming. Still, it must hurt to see his invention win and the credit going to someone else. That aside, we must admit that although we were sceptical of Tanna and Wash's love, they have won us over. The power of love is indeed moving. With Billard's death, Wash is starting his life with his new love. Their love is so powerful that it even inspired Medwin to fight for his love for Angie. As we head to the final chapter, it will be interesting to see what Tanna and Wash will make of themselves. Previous Episode Next Episode Expect A Full Season Write-Up When This Season Concludes!
Chicago Tribune
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Chicago Tribune
‘Washington Black' review: Escaping enslavement becomes a rip-roaring adventure
What does 'somewhere safe' mean when a bounty hunter is on your trail? In the Hulu adventure series 'Washington Black,' that location has been Halifax, Nova Scotia — at least temporarily — for the title character who, as a boy, escaped enslavement on a sugar plantation in early 19th century Barbados. Now a young adult (Ernest Kingsley Jr.), he goes by Jack Crawford to evade detection. Wash, as he was known in a former life, has been living for an indeterminate period of time as a free man in Halifax among other free Black people, including the warmly protective Medwin (Sterling K. Brown, also a producer here), who affectionately calls Wash 'island boy' and says things like 'Are we dreamin' or are we drinkin'?' before clinking glasses, and then: 'If the white folks don't kill ya, this'll definitely do the job,' he says of whatever they're swilling. He is also not afraid to get his hands dirty. This is good news for Wash, since that aforementioned bounty hunter means business. An accomplished artist and scientist who dreams of building a flying machine, Wash's interests and prodigious talents are conspicuous enough that his attempts to disappear haven't fully succeeded, forcing him into hiding. There's also the beautiful young blonde woman Wash spotted days earlier at the docks. As she disembarked from a ship, he stared, both enraptured but also clocking that she's biracial, something the white population of Halifax has failed to grasp. That's how her (white) father wants it, but she has no intention of living a lie or denying the memory of her deceased mother. Her insistence is why they left London to start over in Halifax, as her father keeps reminding her: 'You are a child of England, a child of empire, and that is the skin you must inhabit for us both.' The tenuousness of her and Wash's circumstances complicates the sweetness of their tentative romance. They have both been living double lives and have a unique understanding of one another as a result. That's the 1837 narrative. The other begins eight years earlier in Barbados, and it is Wash's origin story told in flashback. A repellent plantation owner rides out to the sugarcane fields to ward off any thoughts of suicide as a means of escape from their living nightmare: 'Killing yourself is a crime against me as surely as if you stole my horse and slit his throat.' This cruel man has a brother, whose arrival changes the course of Wash's life. A high-spirited inventor and abolitionist named Titch (Tom Ellis), he recognizes the child's curiosity and talent and takes the preteen (played by Eddie Karanja) under his wing. Soon enough, the pair are fleeing the sugarcane fields and Titch's nasty family dysfunction in a blimp-shaped 'cloutcutter' of the man's own devising. They don't get far before crashing into the masts of a pirate ship, and so Wash's journey — a grand, Jules Verne-esque tale both thrilling and fought with danger — begins. Based on the 2018 novel of the same name by Esi Edugyan, the eight-episode series is adapted by show creator Selwyn Seyfu Hinds and has a throwback quality to it, with a sweeping orchestral score that sets the tone. Wash's story can be deeply harrowing in parts (Nat Turner, played by Jamie Hector, makes a brief appearance and he is deadly serious about how precarious everyone's safety is), but it is also filled with dreamy and audacious escapades that see Wash deep sea diving and becoming mesmerized by the vast unknowableness of ocean life under the water. Is a novel, which engages the imagination differently than a screen adaptation, better equipped to toggle between these competing tones? Perhaps. More pressing, for me, was the question of who Wash is, in terms of his personality. As written and performed, we don't get much sense of what his own particular internal monologue might be, and this becomes underscored in any scene he shares with Brown's Medwin, who is such a clearly defined presence by comparison. Brown's an actor working on a different level than most, and he's very effective in his few appearances. I wish the show had outlined a bit more about the lives of Black people in Fairfax. They are free but vulnerable, and that nuance comes through most clearly when Medwin walks into a watering hole patronized by white men. The place goes quiet and he takes a seat at the bar. The man next to him says, 'I wouldn't expect your kind to be welcome in a place like this,' to which Medwin replies evenly: 'No, not usually. But most of the boys in here still need me and mine to make life easier for 'em down on the docks, so' — he takes a short but meaningful pause — 'we agree to disagree.' 'Washington Black' — 2.5 stars (out of 4) Where to watch: Hulu
