In his new Netflix series, “ Supacell ,” creator Rapman examines the lives of five ordinary Black South Londoners who develop unexpected superpowers. Though the excitement of supernatural abilities and the magic of science fiction ripple across the show, the series also explores major themes that disproportionately affect Black people, including human trafficking, extreme surveillance, pervasive global anti-Blackness and predatory medical practices. “Supacell” opens with a distressing event.
An older Black woman is seen running down a dark corridor dressed only in a hospital gown. As she steps toward the sunlight, she is gunned down. Her limp body is then dragged back through the facility as prisoners — all Black people — look on in horror from glass cells.
From there, the setting transitions into more familiar territory. Viewers find themselves on the modern streets of South London, where we meet Michael (a stellar Tosin Cole ), a package delivery courier anxious about proposing to his long-term girlfriend, Dionne (Adelayo Adedayo). Elsewhere in the neighborhood, Andre (Eric Kofi Abrefa) is determined to reconnect with his teenage son after his stint in prison.
Meanwhile, Tazer (Josh Tedeku), a small-time gang leader, is plotting revenge against his rivals. Concurrently, Sabrina (Nadine Mills), a gentle and empathic nurse, is desperate for a promotion, though her sister Sharleen (Rayxia Ojo) warns her not to get her hopes up. Finally, Rodney (Calvin Demba), an ai.
