Random Acts of Flyness (HBO)

About Random Acts of Flyness (HBO)

'Random Acts of Flyness' is an innovative television series from HBO, premiered on August 4, 2018. It amalgamates various television and film formats including documentary, musical, animation, and surrealism, providing a unique viewing experience. Created by Terence Nance, the show aims at exploring contemporary American life, with an emphasis on Black identity, and addresses issues such as systematic racism, police brutality, white supremacy, and cultural appropriation.

Making / Production

The show is produced by HBO and A24. The creator, Terence Nance, serves as a director, writer, and actor in the series. Nance’s unique artistic vision and nonlinear narrative style mark the striking visual storytelling used throughout the show.

Actors

• Terence Nance - Creator and star of the show, Nance plays various roles in different segments, showcasing his versatile acting skills and unconventional approach towards presenting black identity.
• Dominique Fishback - Appears as herself in a segment, providing a raw and emotional performance which deepens the discussion on representation and equality.
• Doreen Garner - Featured in a documentary-style segment, Garner brings attention to the history of medical experimentation on black bodies.
• Paul Sparks - In a parody commercial segment, Sparks effectively uses dark humor to comment on the commodification of blackness.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Though primarily seen as a TV series, 'Random Acts of Flyness' is also considered an art installation due to its unconventional format and presentation.
• Terence Nance also created the theme music for the show in addition to writing, directing, and acting in it.
• The show features several guest appearances by well-known figures such as Whoopi Goldberg and Jon Hamm.

Awards

'Random Acts of Flyness' was nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Variety Sketch Series in 2019.

Quotes

• "It's not a war. It's an extermination."
• "I remain unswallowed, ungnawed upon."
• "Why is it easier for you to imagine the end of the world, than it is for you to imagine the end of white supremacy?"

Music, Soundtrack

• The show's soundtrack includes original music by Terence Nance, along with contributions from various artists like Nelson Bandela, Norvis Junior, and 10ille.
• The music spans across various genres like experimental, soul, and hip-hop, adding to the eclectic nature of the show.