Tip for the couch tonight: Self Made on Netflix

Great chance, about 90 percent I think, that you will also spend your evening on the couch. This is what my week looks like: working from home during the day, evenings on the couch and Netflix. There’s really not much else to do. It is what it is and let’s make the best of it by binge-watching all of Netflix. By the way, I’m well on my way: because I have binged all the seasons of Grace and Frankie last week. Spent enough hours in front of the TV (and laptop). Grace and Frankie is done and that’s why I went looking for a new addition.

Anddd, that has been found. Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker is its full title. And that Madam C.J. Walker that the series is inspired by, what a woman she was, I must say. She lived from 1867 to 1919 and she made it into the Guinness Book of Records because she was the very first woman of color to become a self-made millionaire. She earned millions with her products and cosmetics specifically designed for women of color. In addition, she was also active in politics and advocated for women’s rights.

The Netflix series consists of four episodes, which tell the story of how she achieved her success in an America where much was denied to her. How others tried to ride on her success, tried to take her success away, and wanted to run off with her ideas. Madam C.J. Walker didn’t have it easy. Admittedly: it’s a bit less light-hearted than for example a Grace and Frankie, but I really thought it was a good series. In terms of addictiveness, I definitely give it an 8. And after light-hearted, it can also be a bit more substantial.

Octavia Spencer plays Madam C.J. Walker. She previously won an Oscar, a BAFTA, and a Golden Globe for her role in The Help from 2011. Another familiar face is Tiffany Haddish. So, four episodes, each just over three quarters of an hour. So, get that blanket ready on the couch.

Image: Netflix