Based on a comic book created in the 1970s, Black Lightning features the first African American superhero from the DC Comics universe to headline a live-action TV show and is the newest addition to CW's expanding superhero line-up. As developed by producers and showrunners Salim Akil and Mara Brock Akil, this is also an urban comic book thriller that uses the format to explore the black experience in contemporary America. Cress Williams stars as Jefferson Pierce, a dedicated and passionate high school principal in a predominantly black neighborhood—and father of two adult girls—who has the power to harness and control electricity. Pierce gave up being Black Lightning after it cost him his marriage but he dons the costume again when a rogue drug dealer kidnaps his daughters (who begin to manifest their own powers) and he battles the threat of a lethal new drug that is traced back to a government conspiracy with echoes of the notorious Tuskegee experiment. The series brings race, social justice, and the responsibilities of family and community together with colorful action and it is currently the only show to feature a superhero approaching middle-age. Presenting all 13 episodes from the 2018 debut season, extras include behind-the-scenes featurettes, a 2017 Comic-Con panel, deleted scenes, and a gag reel. Recommended. (S. Axmaker)
Black Lightning: The Complete First Season
Warner, 544 min., not rated, DVD: 3 discs, $29.99; Blu-ray: 2 discs, $39.99 Volume 33, Issue 5
Black Lightning: The Complete First Season
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