Written by Nadia Nugent, Image sourced from SCAD aTVfest
The post-screening panel featured Rutina Wesley (Nova), Dawn-Lyen Gardner (Charley) and Kofi Siriboe (Ralph). Set in rural Louisiana and based on the novel by Natalie Baszile, “Queen Sugar” offers a nuanced portrayal of Black family dynamics and small-town politics in a way that captivates viewers.
The “Queen Sugar” cast and crew believe in representation on screen and on set. Helmed by Ava DuVernay, the latest season of “Queen Sugar” was directed by five women filmmakers, as were seasons two through four. The cast was excited to share that one director, Cierra Glaudé, began as a production assistant on set.
“Queen Sugar” is known for tackling pressing social issues, from gentrification to police brutality, long before last summer’s protests brought them to the forefront of the national conversation. This is a trend they’ve continued into their newest season. Season five came with challenges not just for the characters, but the cast and crew as well.
COVID-19 paused many industries. The film industry was no exception. While waiting for a safe time to resume filming and implement new health and safety measures, Gardner said the break had positive outcomes. The writers completely scrapped and rewrote their original scripts and character arcs for the season. The unexpected break gave them time to infuse conversation around the historic events of the last year into their storylines.
More industries, including the entertainment industry, are opening up to these hard conversations on and off screen. Siriboe said he is confident this change is here to stay, and hopes the industry is approaching a point where artists of color can tell all of the stories they have to offer.
“Queen Sugar” is already confirmed for a sixth season, meaning audiences can look forward to more family drama, twists and turns for the Bordelon family. The new season of “Queen Sugar” premieres Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 8 p.m. eastern on the OWN Network. You can catch up on the previous seasons on Hulu.
