All American: Homecoming Review: Move On (Season 1 Episode 10)
Thea is going through the motions of coming to terms with her traumatizing date with Kevin on All American: Homecoming Season 1 Episode 10, “Move On.”
“Move On” expertly conveys the complicated emotions a woman feels as she tries to make sense of an assault. Thea’s story speaks to all women who struggle to heal from a terrifying date gone wrong.
The All American: Homecoming writers take an honest approach to a complicated topic by deciding to show the debilitating and the messy sides of healing. This is not an easy topic, and the writers possess an awareness of the complex ways a woman can reel from this experience.
Camille Hyde’s performance is hauntingly real. Throughout the episode, Thea is angry, upset, scared, and panicked. Hyde balances these feelings well, showcasing the wide range of emotions Thea is battling on her own.
Thea is a dedicated athlete driven by her passion for tennis, but even tennis can’t help her escape. Her fear and despair are palpable to the audience, which is an appreciated vulnerable side of a character that is only starting to open up.
“Move On” allows Thea to connect with JR’s ex, Aqueelah, another victim of Kevin. These scenes provide great examples of the strength of understanding and delicate encouragement when you see someone struggling like you are.
By addressing the repeated behavior, All American: Homecoming reminds us of the dangerous prevalence of these experiences while also allowing the two women to support one another.
Outside of Thea’s storyline, “Move On,” finds more ways to address important issues. Although Simone and Damon’s relationship is fractured, they still make a great team when they join forces for good.
There is a systemic issue in this country regarding economic inequality, which permeates into the opportunities for student-athletes without the funds for adequate training. Talented players across the country lose opportunities because they cannot waste money on new equipment year after year.
Sports are such a central part of the All American franchise, so it is fitting to dedicate a storyline to helping kids in the Atlanta area practice and hone their athletic skills to prepare them for collegiate-level opportunities.
This program provides exciting leadership opportunities for characters like Cam and JR, who have fallen to the wayside this season. Let’s hope it sticks around!
In another important discussion, Keisha faces her fears and decides to regularly work on her mental health.
Keisha is one of the most relatable characters on All American: Homecoming. She’s a vivacious and fiercely loyal friend, but she struggles with her self-worth too.
It’s admirable of her to make the healthy choice, one that terrifies her, in the hopes of a better future for herself and her relationships. It’s not easy to address that you need help, especially when you’re more comfortable avoiding vulnerable conversations and keeping things light.
We are all rooting for Keisha and Cam, but we also want Keisha to be her best self before she jumps into a relationship, even if it hurts to walk away.
“Move On” provides a solid foundation for the last few episodes of the season. All American: Homecoming‘s honest approach to issues often underrepresented in media, such as sexual assault, mental health, and poverty, leaves us more aware of the difficulties and strength of those around us.
The women are especially shining, creating vulnerable yet real characters for us to enjoy each week.
Stray Thoughts
- A person has never been more obvious than JR’s mom during that conversation with Damon.
- Cam is so charming. You can’t not love him!
- Damon’s adoption drama has run its course.
- Damon and Thea’s relationship is really sweet — whether it stays platonic or grows romantic.
- Tina Hicks is growing on me! Her support for Simone this episode is wonderful.
- Amara and Marcus’s solo storylines are starting to drag a bit, and sometimes Kelly Jenrette’s acting loses me.
What did you think of this episode of All American: Homecoming? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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All American: Homecoming airs Mondays at 9/8c on The CW.
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Julia Paino
Julia is a TV and pop culture enthusiast who gets too emotionally invested in her favorite characters. She loves making people laugh and is always down for a Taylor Swift sing-along. She is firmly on Team Stefan and has been since 2009. Follow her on Twitter @juliampaino!