Watch On My Block
- TV-14
- 2018
- 4 Seasons
-
7.9 (17,973)
On My Block is a coming-of-age comedy-drama television series that premiered on Netflix in 2018. Created by Lauren Iungerich, Jeremy Haft, and Eddie Gonzalez, the show follows a group of high school friends as they navigate their way through adolescence in a rough and impoverished South Los Angeles neighborhood. The show revolves around four lifelong best friends: Monse, Cesar, Ruby, and Jamal, who are all starting high school. Monse, played by Sierra Capri, is the strong-willed and ambitious leader of the group, who is trying to find her place in a male-dominated environment. Cesar, played by Diego Tinoco, is a handsome and charming young man, who is struggling to stay out of the gang scene that his family is deeply involved in. Ruby, played by Jason Genao, is an intelligent and sensitive boy who dreams of making it big one day. Finally, Jamal, played by Brett Gray, is the quirky and enthusiastic member of the group, who is convinced that there is a hidden treasure buried in their neighborhood. At the beginning of the show, the four friends are excited about starting high school but soon realize that it's not as easy as they thought it would be. They have to deal with the usual teenage problems like fitting in, making friends, having crushes, and maintaining relationships, but they also have to face more dangerous and serious issues like gang violence, police brutality, and racial discrimination. The show does an excellent job of balancing the light-hearted moments with the darker themes. The humor is clever and witty, and the serious moments are handled with sensitivity and grace. The writers also explore the diverse perspectives and experiences of the characters, highlighting issues of race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and identity. One of the most significant strengths of the show is its cast, who all deliver excellent performances that make the characters feel authentic and relatable. Sierra Capri shines as Monse, bringing a compelling mix of strength and vulnerability to her role. Jason Genao excels as Ruby, providing some of the show's funniest moments, but also delivers emotional performances when needed. Diego Tinoco brings depth and complexity to Cesar, portraying a young man torn between loyalty to his family and his desire for a better life. Brett Gray is a standout as Jamal, delivering his lines with impeccable timing, and stealing every scene he's in. The supporting cast is also fantastic, with Jessica Marie Garcia giving a standout performance as Jasmine, a quirky and lovable girl who becomes friends with the group. Julio Macias plays Spooky, Cesar's older brother, who is a member of a local gang, and provides an intriguing and complex antagonist. Peggy Ann Blow and Paula Garcés also deliver excellent performances as Abuelita and Geny Martinez, Monse's grandmother, and Cesar's mother, respectively. The show's production values are also impressive, with a strong visual aesthetic and great soundtrack that captures the vibe of the neighborhood and the characters' personalities. The writing and direction are both top-notch, providing a cohesive and engaging narrative that keeps the audience invested in the characters' stories. Overall, On My Block is a must-watch show that tackles important issues with honesty and humor while showcasing the talents of an exceptional cast. The show has been renewed for a fourth and final season, which is expected to air in 2021, giving fans one last chance to say goodbye to these memorable characters.