Forever – Well done Netflix

My husband and I over the last two weeks have sat down and watched the Netflix series Forever, released on 8 May 2025, an adaptation of Judy Blume’s 1975 novel through the lens of modern Black teen life in Los Angeles.  Reimaged by  Created by Mara Brock Akil, responsible for dramas like Moesha & The Jamie Foxx drama.  Girlfriends (2000-2008), and a lot more. Just to say this woman is formidable, she knows her craft, and thus it makes sense why this drama resonated with us as a black family. The depth and insight into black families raising children, navigating the best education with a plan for their children's future was spot on. 

Forever invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of young love and the journey of self-discovery, emphasising that while first loves may not last forever, their impact is enduring.

The drama centres on Keisha and Justin, two high school athletes navigating first love, identity, and the pressures of growing up.

The drama had was full of soe many key messages; watching provided a talking point to have with our 16 year old son.

• First love will change and is often not permanent

  • Keisha and Justin experience deep connection, and more so for Justin who is neurodivergent and looking to Keisha to help in navigate his future,  but ultimately part ways to pursue personal growth.

  • Their breakup is portrayed as mutual and respectful, emphasising that love can remain even as relationships ends and there does not have to be a cruelty in the ending.

    
    

• Sexuality is natural and should be discussed openly

  • The series addresses teenage sexuality candidly, reflecting Blume’s original intent to portray sex without judgment.   I was labelled judgy (and deepening it) by my son, and I reminded him of his Christian Faith and how he is expected to conduct himself.

  • It includes conversations about consent and the emotional aspects of becoming sexually active  and the regrets that can ensue, and the safety required. 

  • The plot involves a leaked intimate video of Keisha with a previous boyfriend, highlighting the complexities of digital life for teens.  

    
    

Racial context.

• Set in 2018 Los Angeles, the drama incorporates contemporary issues like social media's influence and  racial dynamics. Where Justin is instructed by his family how to respond if stopped by the police. Brilliantly done.

  
  

• Parental involvement shapes teen experiences

  • Children are truly the fruits of their parents efforts when they are getting it working.  Here we see parents as actively engaged in their children's lives and the value of this.  The black representation on the black mothers were such that  our my son was able to comment with some confidence that Justin’s mother had ‘Your Aura mum; your vibe’, his words.  Why? because she was ambitious for him and wanted him to do something with his life.  Justin’s father balanced out any tension that arose with the much-needed strong,  caring black male perspective. Again, it resonated strongly with our family.   Something that Justin appreciated, and my son could relate to.  Representation is crucial!! It helps to provide our children with a lens to judge their parents fairly. It validates our stance or at the very least helps our children to understand.

  • The drama reflected healthy parenting styles and the importance of guidance during adolescence, it also navigated well the tensions and the respectful manner in which the parents and teens communicated with each other.

    
    

• Representation matters

  • By featuring Black protagonists, Forever provides visibility to stories of healthy Black love and coming-of-age experiences for our black teens.

  • It challenges stereotypes and offers a nuanced portrayal of Black adolescence, although Justin takes a gap year to make beats and songs with a local producer was ehh! A bit Kanyeish.  He could have gone off to be a Gardner or a Sommelier to help his dad out, who is a restaurant owner and chef. 

The drama was a great teachable moment, a great experience if watched together. Here are some reflective questions parents or carers could ask their teens.

• What do you think about how Keisha and Justin handled their relationship? Does anything feel familiar to you?

• How do you think social media helps or harms relationships at your age?

• How would you feel if your personal life became public, like it did for the characters? 

• What kind of support do you want from adults when you're going through emotional stuff?

•  What do you think about the manner and tone in which Keisha and Justin used when arguing with their parents?

•   As a black teen, do you think the police approach you differently?

•   Do you feel like dramas like Forever is what life is really like for teens today?

  
  

These questions can help your teen reflect, share their views, and feel heard. Keep the tone open, not judgmental. Let them lead the conversation.