Supacell: A Perfect Score on Rotten Tomatoes
Supacell, a new superhero thriller on Netflix, has earned a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes and is quickly becoming a global hit. While Superhero movies have dominated the big screen with franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and DC Universe (DCU), the streaming world has explored more experimental approaches. Prime Video boasts shows like The Boys and Invincible, Hulu has the adult comedy Extraordinary, and HBO will debut The Franchise later this year. But after the disappointment of Jupiter's Legacy, Netflix seems to have found success with Supacell.
Since its debut on Netflix on June 27, Supacell has stormed the streamer's global Top 10 chart for English-language television shows. It secured the #2 spot overall for the week of June 24 through June 30, amassing 33.5 million views and 6.4 million hours viewed. This performance surpassed popular shows like Bridgerton, Sweet Tooth, and Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. Only the latest season of Bridgerton, season 3, managed to take the top spot.
Who are the Superheroes of Supacell?
Supacell focuses on five ordinary people who unexpectedly develop superpowers, showcasing characters with little in common except for their shared identity as Black South Londoners. The group is brought together by Michael Lasaki, who is on a mission to save the woman he loves. The characters also share a history of sickle cell disease and must evade a secret organization that wants to control them.
The cast of Supacell features Tosin Cole, known for his role in Doctor Who, as Michael Lasaki. Nadine Mills, Eric Kofi Abrefa, Calvin Demba, Josh Tedeku, Adelayo Adedayo, Rayxia Ojo, Sharleen, and Giacomo Mancini round out the cast. Eddie Marsan, a veteran character actor known for numerous roles, portrays the leader of the secret organization pursuing the superpowered individuals. While the premise might seem familiar, the show has earned critical acclaim for injecting a sense of urgency into a recognizable story.
The Importance of Sickle Cell Disease in Supacell
Sickle cell disease is a crucial plot point in Supacell. The series explores the realities of this disease and how it influences the lives of the characters and the events that unfold in the show. It offers viewers a deeper understanding of this real-world medical condition and its impact.
In real life, sickle cell disease affects red blood cells, causing them to become stiff and crescent-shaped, which can lead to various health issues. The show touches upon the challenges faced by individuals living with sickle cell disease, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and understanding.
What Makes Supacell Stand Out?
Created and directed by Rapman, who also serves as showrunner, Supacell season 1 delivers a satisfying conclusion to the storylines developed over its six episodes. The show's success, however, suggests that a second installment could be on the horizon. This is especially relevant as Netflix has struggled in the Superhero genre space, and the streamer might be eager to build a successful property within this genre.
Supacell sets itself apart by blending action with social commentary, exploring themes of empowerment and responsibility. The series captures the unique experiences of Black South Londoners and their challenges in navigating a society that often fails to understand their realities. Supacell is not just another superhero show; it is a powerful and thought-provoking series that explores important issues with depth and sensitivity.
