Watch Godfather of Harlem
- TV-MA
- 2019
- 3 Seasons
-
8.1 (17,297)
Godfather of Harlem is a crime drama series that premiered on EPIX in September 2019. The show depicts the true story of infamous Harlem crime boss Bumpy Johnson, played by Forest Whitaker, as he returns from a ten-year stint in prison and seeks to regain control over his neighborhood. The show is set in the 1960s during a time of great change and turmoil in America, particularly within the civil rights movement. As Johnson re-enters the world of crime, he finds that the landscape has changed significantly during his absence. Italian mafia boss Vincent "Chin" Gigante, played by Vincent D'Onofrio, has taken over much of Harlem and has no intention of giving up his territory to Johnson. The show follows their power struggle as well as Johnson's relationships with other important figures of the time, such as civil rights leader Malcolm X, played by Nigel Thatch. One of the highlights of the show is Whitaker's performance as Johnson. He convincingly portrays the gangster as a complex and charismatic figure who is both ruthless and caring. He is supported by a strong ensemble cast, including Ilfenesh Hadera as Johnson's wife Mayme, Lucy Fry as a beautiful and tragic singer named Stella, and Giancarlo Esposito as pastor and community leader Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Not only does the show explore the criminal underworld of Harlem, but it also sheds light on the political and social issues of the time. The show touches on topics such as police brutality, racism, and the Black Panthers. However, it is not just a heavy drama as there are lighter moments of humor and romance to balance it out. Overall, Godfather of Harlem is a well-crafted and engaging crime drama that also serves as a history lesson. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the cultural and political history of 1960s America or those who appreciate a good gangster story. You can Watch Godfather of Harlem Online on various streaming platforms such as EPIX, Amazon Prime, and Hulu.