‘Black Fruit’ at BFI Flare

‘Black Fruit’ is a satirical yet moving series about the chaotic lives of two Black queer friends as they navigate loss, the weight of their pasts and the uncertainty of their futures.

‘Black Fruit’ at BFI Flare

At its heart is Lalo, who in the midst of grieving his father clings to romantic entanglements and friendships with an intensity that ultimately pushes away those who care for him most. Karla, a self-assured lawyer, initially appears to be the stabilising force in Lalo’s turbulent world until she too is forced to confront the vulnerabilities she’s buried beneath her put together exterior.

Brilliantly written, the series presents a holistic and authentic portrayal of friendships, love and grief, embracing the beautiful messiness of different relationships. With echoes of I May Destroy You, it balances raw emotion with biting satire, using sharp dialogue to examine racism with wit and precision while navigating the complexities of evolving friendships with nuance and heart.

Lamin Leroy Gibba crafts a compelling character in Lalo, skilfully balancing the audience’s sympathy for his pain with frustration at his self-destructive choices. Melodie Simina delivers a layered performance as Karla, her outward composure masking a simmering well of emotions bubbling underneath.

Black Fruit is relatable and unflinchingly honest, capturing the angst and uncertainty of life in your late twenties with authenticity.

Show Title: Black Fruit
Review Date: 30/03/2025

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Author

Monica Cox

Monica Cox Voice Reviewer

Monica is a theatre and film director, writer and dramaturg with a particular interest in queer and female stories. She has a degree in Spanish and Russian and a Masters in Theatremaking.

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