A transformative journey unfolds as Matthew A. Cherry, the visionary behind the groundbreaking short animated film “Hair Love,” continues to illuminate new horizons. The year 2019 bore witness to his historic feat—the crowdfunding campaign that amassed over $300,000 to bring “Hair Love” to life. The poignant tale of active Black fathers struck a resounding chord, culminating in its triumphant ascent to an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 2020.
The legacy of “Hair Love” is poised for yet another transformative chapter, as the animated short metamorphoses into a captivating series exclusively on MAX. Embarking on this exhilarating adventure are millennial parents Stephen Love and Angela Young, portrayed through the mellifluous voices of Scott “Kid Cudi” Mescudi and Issa Rae. Their daughter, Zuri, lends her youthful charm to this narrative tapestry.
In a symphony of narratives and visual splendor, “Young Love” unfurls its captivating narrative against the vibrant backdrop of Chicago. The Young-Love family embarks on a voyage through the labyrinth of modern life—juggling careers, relationships, parenthood, and the intricate threads of societal dynamics. This tapestry of experiences resonates with authenticity, revealing their relentless pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.
Amidst the compelling narrative, “Young Love” redefines conventional standards of beauty, symbolizing a paradigm shift that resonates profoundly. The protagonists’ natural hairstyles cascade as a triumphant celebration of identity and individuality, dismantling obsolete notions of beauty while fostering inclusivity.
Ariel Baker, a wordsmith and visionary in her own right, captures the essence of “Young Love” eloquently in an op-ed for PopSugar. She aptly describes the series as an embodiment of self-acceptance, weaving a poignant letter of empowerment for Black children and the entire community. “Young Love” embarks on a mission to reflect and uplift, fostering a profound sense of belonging for all who tune in.
This evocative journey transcends the screen, enlisting a remarkable ensemble cast to breathe life into its multifaceted characters. The dulcet tones of Loretta Devine, Harry Lennix, Tamar Braxton, and Brooke Conaway infuse the narrative with depth and resonance, weaving an auditory tapestry that captures the very essence of the human experience.
Beyond the realms of animation, Matthew A. Cherry’s artistic odyssey is an interdisciplinary tapestry, weaving together diverse mediums to create a cohesive narrative. Parallel to the “Young Love” series, Cherry introduces “Hair Love A-B-C,” a captivating board book that embarks on an exploration of Black hairstyles, tailored for young readers. The illustrations, masterfully crafted by Vashti Harrison, breathe life into this literary endeavor.
Cherry articulates the essence of “Hair Love A-B-C” with profound insight, emphasizing the significance of cultural specificity and familial moments as an integral component of early childhood education. This visionary work reimagines the traditional approach to learning the alphabet, infusing it with vibrant cultural nuances that amplify the beauty of Black Hair and family connections.
The legacy that Matthew A. Cherry is sculpting transcends mere entertainment—it’s a reflection of societal metamorphosis, a testament to the potential of artistic expression as a catalyst for change. As “Young Love” finds its home on MAX, its resonance extends beyond the confines of screens, echoing through conversations and narratives that bridge gaps and amplify voices.
In an era marked by diversity and inclusivity, “Young Love” stands as a beacon of hope—a poignant reminder that stories have the power to reshape narratives and ignite dialogues. As the Young-Love family navigates the intricacies of life, they become a mirror, reflecting the complexities of our own journeys. In a realm where love and beauty intersect, Matthew A. Cherry orchestrates a symphony that is both unifying and empowering, inviting us all to join the chorus of change.