Grown-ish Review: Safe and Sound (Season 1 Episode 11)

Grown-ish Season 1 Episode 11, “Safe and Sound,” presents a brilliant insight into the current phenomenon known as a ‘safe space,’ as it relates to our socio-political landscape.

Over and over again, Grown-ish has continued to stand out as a very timely show, paying attention to issues that are often glossed over or relegated completely; conversations that are thought of as heavy and offensive to certain groups.

That ability to tackle difficult subjects is one that is made manifest in this episode.

The way the argument is presented shows no bias to any wing of the socio-political divide but rather presents compelling points to critically access every point of view.

It also illuminates the common misconceptions about certain groups of people. Come to think of it, who would imagine that a woman of color, someone in the ‘minority,’ in the person of Ana Torres, would actually hold conservative views? And who would have thought that Conservatives had ideas that are actually similar to those held by Liberals?

Our society is blindsided by a two-factor system of ‘here’ or ‘there’ without considering the potential to meet in the middle.

This episode comes highly recommended to everyone, not just in America but the rest of the world, because it strikes at the core of our many man-made problems.

The fact that everyone has a voice that should be listened to, is of deep intellectual consideration and is so well articulated and conveyed in very concise terms.

The reason Grown-ish is able to further these conversations in very realistic ways is primarily because of the diversity of its cast members. When you hear Ana speak of being Latina, she looks it. When you hear Aaron complain of the struggles of being black, you can clearly see why he has an opinion.

Speaking of Ana and Aaron, in keeping with the trend of rotating characters around storylines, they are at the center of this one.

This is the first time we have seen Ana contribute enormously and we get to see her passion and strength, which had been underserved in her previous moments on the show.

We get to see her interact with Aaron more closely, which had not been the case in the past.

It is difficult to portray a close-knit association within a group of eight people and their circle seemed lopsided on some parts but being able to merge characters into playing a particular storyline helps to balance the friendship and lets them relate better with one another.

I like that the show drops punchlines with a ‘ding’ sound, just to make sure that viewers get the gist, and they make really good jokes on the show as well, keeping the tempo light and delivering a feel-good sensation all around.

That joke about BDSM, which dumb Aaron coined to mean “Black Dorms Should Matter,” is one that stands out, especially because of its x-rated connotation. Thankfully, the show is rated 14 and above, so, it should be somewhat appropriate especially for curious teenagers.

The riot that broke out during the peaceful protest is well exemplified. It depicts what really happens in many organized protests.

They usually start off calm and peaceful, until opposing groups come along, and the situation escalates into a brawl, exactly as Ana and Aaron’s case can attest to.

We also see classic crowd behavior of some people standing around, apparently oblivious of what is going on; some are documenting the riot with their phone cameras, some are chanting the buzzwords while others fuel the scuffle.

Basically, we are given a two-sided picture of what safe spaces entail.

People need safe spaces to feel good and connect with others, who share their ideals, otherwise known as a ‘comfort zone.’

But when Luca mentions that people should get comfortable with being uncomfortable, he is referring to the fact that people should not aspire to confine themselves to places where they will not feel triggered or criticized.

He is basically saying that we all need to co-exist together in whatever space we find ourselves.

The show advances a pro-safe space position but with inclusion as the focal point, which is really important because everywhere should be a safe space.

Nobody should have to walk around afraid of being harassed because of values, race, beliefs or orientation.

This is a direct assault on racism, inequality, bullying, and stereotypes, at a time when it has become particularly important to speak out.

However, the reality is this: where there are different ideas, conflict is inevitable. In that case, will inclusive safe spaces be sustainable?

On the other hand, will there be a need for safe spaces if we all learn to love and accommodate each other’s worldview? The answer is ‘No’.

It is one thing to advance an idea and another to have it gain roots. I hope this episode gathers enough momentum to facilitate this discussion on a larger scale.

What did you think of this episode of Grown-ish? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Reviewer Rating:

User Rating:

 

Grown-ish airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on Freeform.

Follow us on Twitter @telltaleTV_

Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!