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Beauty in Black is a new Netflix series created to attract subscribers, with all episodes written, produced, and directed by Tyler Perry. The show follows the lives of two women, Kimmie and Mallory, who are leading very different lives. Kimmie is a sex worker with aspirations of entering the cosmetology field, while Mallory is the face of a beauty empire that is deeply intertwined with the dark world Kimmie is a part of. The series is explicit and provocative, earning a TV-MA rating, a departure from Perry’s previous work.
The show seems to be following a trend set by platforms like Tubi, which cater to Black audiences with edgy content. However, unlike those projects, Beauty in Black fails to provide likable or relatable characters. Kimmie is portrayed as incompetent and unlikable, while other characters are similarly harsh and unappealing. The dialogue is drawn out and often lacks payoff, making the viewing experience frustrating.
Despite its flaws, Beauty in Black boasts high production values, with stunning locations that elevate the show visually. Perry, known for his Christian audience, takes a departure with this series, exploring mature themes and content. This shift may alienate some of his traditional supporters, especially as the entertainment industry grapples with issues of sexual misconduct.
In this series, Perry demonstrates a willingness to push boundaries and explore new territory. However, the execution falls short, leaving viewers with a disjointed and unsatisfying viewing experience. It remains to be seen how audiences will respond to this departure from Perry’s usual style.
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