"Forever" Netflix Review
- Jun 26, 2025
- 3 min read
“If it weren’t for you, I’d still be locked in a life that isn’t mine.”
Every once in a while, a show comes along that captures the magic of first love and the complexities of growing up—and Netflix’s Forever does just that. This 8-episode series is a heartfelt reimagining of Judy Blume’s groundbreaking 1978 novel, brought to life by powerhouse producer Mara Brock Akil (Girlfriends, The Game, Being Mary Jane). Forever isn't just a teen romance—it's a rare gem of authentic Black storytelling that beautifully balances emotion, identity, and family.
Blume’s Forever has always been a bold exploration of young love, sex, and independence. But in this Netflix adaptation, Akil skillfully reshapes the narrative through a fresh cultural lens—focusing on Black teenagers navigating love, life, and everything in between in modern-day Los Angeles.
The series follows senior high schoolers, Justin Edwards (Michael Cooper Jr.) and Keisha Clark (Lovie Simone), two teens who reconnect after years apart. Their relationship is charming, awkward, and real in all the right ways—filled with the kind of sweet, foot-kicking moments that will make you grin like you're in high school again.
The series doesn’t rely on over-the-top drama or cliché tropes—instead, it leans into real-life emotions and experiences. Through the dual perspectives of both Justin and Keisha, viewers gain a fuller understanding of their motivations, doubts, and dreams. This storytelling approach is both refreshing and grounding, adding depth to every interaction.
One of the standout aspects of Forever is its representation of Black family life—a rarity in mainstream teen dramas. Justin’s parents, played by Wood Harris (The Wire, Creed) and Karen Pitman (Marvel’s Luke Cage), are emotionally available, supportive, and transparent. Their dynamic shows what it means to love your child unconditionally while still holding space for growth and personal identity. This depiction of involved Black parents is a standout and long overdue.
In contrast, Keisha’s mother Shelley (Xosha Roquemore) is a single parent doing her best to protect her daughter and provide for her, highlighting the strength, love, and struggles of Black single motherhood.
Surrounding Justin and Keisha is a genuine circle of supportive friends who hold them accountable, offer comfort, and add both humor and heart to the show’s emotional weight.
Visually, Forever is stunning. The fashion is impeccable—every look speaks volumes about each character's growth, confidence, and style. The show opens each episode with a photo collage introduction that’s both playful and nostalgic, helping to set the emotional tone.
The music throughout the series is equally powerful, mixing soulful, modern, and nostalgic tracks that underscore the highs and lows of young love and self-discovery. Forever is more than just a teen romance that captures the magic of that consuming first love —it's a celebration of vulnerability, love, family, healing, and growth. The series explore the following relatable themes without being heavy handed:
✔ Sex and social media pressure
✔ Family dynamics and generational trauma
✔ Neurodivergent representation such as ADHD and Autism
✔ Racism, cultural bias, and class divides
✔ The struggle for self-worth and identity
If you're a fan of coming-of-age stories with emotional depth and cultural relevance, Forever should be at the top of your watchlist. It’s rare to see young Black love portrayed with such tenderness and complexity on a mainstream platform like Netflix. Whether you're a teen navigating your own first heartbreak or a millennial reminiscing about your high school crush, there's something in this show that will speak to your soul.
The first season ends in a way that leaves you hopeful, excited, and yearning for more. I can’t wait to see Justin and Keisha’s love story unfold as they head into the next chapter of life—college and all the new challenges that come with it in Season 2.
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