Black Boy Joy
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Black Boy Joy
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Black Boy Joy is a compelling and heartfelt short about three generations of Black men struggling to adjust to their new normal after the tragic death of their matriarch. Brought to the screen in 2019 by director, Martina Lee and writer, Michelle Sam, the dramatic short was praised as the NAACP Image Award winner for Best Short Film Narrative and won the HBO Short Award at the Martha's Vineyard African American Film Festival. An emotionally gripping story about the complicated nature of families, and balancing tough love with nurture, living on the autism spectrum, and grief -- Black Boy Joy is a multilayered story, packed into 17 minutes. It is helpful for families to create an engaging environment during viewing, and answer questions in a developmentally appropriate way as they may arise.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
BLACK BOY JOY gives audiences a brief glimpse into the life of grandfather, Otis, father, Miles, and son, Selim as they grieve the loss of a Miles' wife - Selim's mother. Struggling with comprehending her death, in part due to being on the autism spectrum, Selim turn to his father and grandfather for comfort and solace during this dark and confusing time. Challenged by differences in their perspectives and a generational gap, Otis and Miles struggle with approaches to parenting Selim and accepting his diagnosis. The varying needs, emotions, and attitudes of the three generation of men culminate into a vulnerable discussion on the day of the funeral.
Is It Any Good?
The racially diverse cast and crew achieved their goal in disrupting stereotypes about Black fathers and sons in this moving story. Black Boy Joy provides an engaging narrative that opens the floor for discussion about pressing topics, such as the perspective of children with autism, intergenerational parenting, and the nuances of grief. The short is multidimensional and leaves viewers wanting to know more about the characters. Award-winning, and emotion-packed, Black Boy Joy is sure to capture your heart.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how in Black Boy Joy the main characters are grieving the loss of their loved one. Have you ever lost someone you love? Can you talk to a family member about how losing them felt? If you've never lost a loved one, what feelings do you think the characters have?
Selim's father, Miles, demonstrates empathy, courage, patience and compassion. Why are these important character strengths?
Selim has autism. Do you, or anyone you know have autism or another learning disorder? Why do you think different people in his family respond to his diagnosis differently?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 1, 2019
- Cast: Evan Alex, William Catlett, Shirley Jordan, Montae Russell
- Network: HBO Max
- Genre: Drama
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Last updated: October 4, 2021
Our Editors Recommend
-
Fatherhood
"Hart"warming father-daughter dramedy; cursing, sad scenes.
-
The Pursuit of Happyness
Inspirational but often emotionally wrenching story.
-
Finding Nemo
Sweet father-son tale has some very scary moments.
For kids who love Black main characters
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate