Why Donald Glover's Atlanta Feels So Weird 

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I told my friend a while ago that being black sometimes feels like being in an episode of the Twilight Zone then I watched Atlanta..He definitely captured what a lot of us feel.

Coming as a Hispanic dude. Atlanta really makes you understand what it’s like living in a racist society on a day to day basis without actually telling you.

"What I take for granted as normal is creating an absurd reality for others..." Great quote.

This series does a great job of the "Show not tell" aspect of a good story. Nobody is narrating for the camera, this world exists without there being a lens on it. It respects its own universe too much to care about coddling the viewer with obligatory narrative.

Glad they included 'Sorry To Bother You' in the afro-surrealism mix. It's a brilliant, highly entertaining film with some very heavy points being made. My guy LaKeith Stanfield is amazing in it, as always.

Its the humanity and nuance of its critique: it’s studied yet mildly passionate; it’s humour has a purpose; it recognises the absurd in reality, the real in the surreal. Its the best show for a while now; I just would like more of it.

If you’ve ever lived in Atlanta, you’d know something always feels “off” or “weird”. It’s a magical place.

As a young black kid that loves this show it’s really cool to learn about afro-surrealism, also very eye opening creativity wise

As a white guy who did a video about the surrealism in Atlanta way back when, this is really awesome and important context about why it felt that way

I’m black and from the UK and a lot of these incidents stand out to me. The sandwich reminds of the drug addict who’ll offer you something out of random and if you don’t accept act like you insulted them. I remember one time my friend was just reciting a song(we have a lot of songs about violence) and my friends uncle (we were 14 at the time at his birthday party, now 25) started talking about what it’s like to stab a man in the chest and how it feels. Just because he thought it’d be a good warning to younger people. And I don’t know if it’s just the black experience and not a working class experience. But, because therapy isn’t really a thing if you don’t have money or time, you get a lot of experiences around people who should have far more self awareness. TL;DR I feel a lot of those experiences when watching Atlanta.

this could also go with the jordan peele films as well, and other creators, seems like this thing is its own genre, and its gaining more popularity, love seeing stuff like this being made

I wish something like this was around when I was a teenager. I was really into surrealism, absurdism, Avant-garde, experimental art, music, books, movies, television, etc. And unfortunately, as a black male, I was either unaware that this form of medium existed and was made by people of color or it just didn't. But I'm glad it's here now.

5:58 "If you're dealing with absurd fiction everyday of your life, something you know isn't real, but you have to treat it as if its real... that's the thing putting us in jail... giving us unemployment... getting us killed." Wow. Perfectly summed it up. So glad I saw some exploratory videos like this one and moved beyond 'but its about African Americans, I'm a white Aussie girl' and watched it. Powerful show.

At one point in my life, the company I worked for fired everyone and closed down the building I was working in very suddenly an I lost access to health insurance and thus my medications I need to live. After some research, I discovered a place nearby that provided free health care and medications to people who were unemployed, which I had just become. I decided to sign up at this place for health care until I got a new job, because I needed my meds and couldn't live without them. Anyway, this place was setup in a real bizarre manner. They only accept new patients on one night each week and you have to show up at around 4am and form a line and at 8am the doors open and the first 10 people in that line get added as new patients. So when I went to sign up there, I got there at 4am and was already 3rd in line. Now this place was in a pretty shady area in the city and wasn't well lit, so it was already uncomfortable to know I had to stand there for 4 hours waiting for the doors to open. Not only that, but both of the people in front of me in line were homeless drug addicts. They were having conversations with each other, with me, and sometimes themselves, talking about all kinds of things. They believed all sorts of crazy things. I don't remember the specifics of what they talked about, but I do remember all of it sounded unhinged. They were like conspiracy nuts, the sort of people who believe there are listening devices all over, in common objects. The one guy made a comment that he had special equipment and detected 4 of them in the wall of the building we were standing in front of at some point. They also talked about how they came to be homeless. I never asked, but it felt almost like a compulsion on their part, like they just had to tell their story. It was deeply unsettling being next to these two individuals alone in this dark alley for hours in this shady part of town, and it was impossible to know how much of what they said was true, how much was an intentional lie, and how much was just crazy shit they believe is true but isn't. I ultimately got inside, signed up, and was given my medication. Once you sign up, you can just show up at any time while they're open to pickup meds for a full year so I was already employed again and had health insurance and didn't have to go back. But that experience was very otherworldly to me. It felt almost like being in a dream because I was in a place I would never have gone to, surrounded by people i'd work hard to avoid being near, and so on. When I watch shows like Atlanta, it reminds me of that experience. It was almost like being sucked into the twilight zone where all the rules to the world suddenly changed for a short time before going back to normal.

as a latino man this show really hit home. personally i don’t speak spanish and for the most part i’ve made my own identity. but every hispanic i meet says i’m not mexican enough or how can you be mexican if you don’t speak the language. But whenever i’m around whites or hell any other race i can tell that they look at me weird and treat me differently to the point where everything they says seems fake almost.

Thanks man! As a latino living in Boston now, the subtleness of everything is what makes racism so weird and deeply rooted in others actions.

First episode of this season was so important and a rollercoaster of emotions.

9:20 This kinda reminds me of the concept of double consciousness, that surrealism in afro surrealism is specifically the disconnect between personal identity, how you perform, and the way the world perceives you. And that make sense, identity is a huge theme in the show

Watching Atlanta just encapsulated what it felt like being black sometimes, the scene where Darius gets chased by the lady on the scooter was hilarious but actually resonated with me because sometimes you just exist or do what everyone else is doing but you get singled out for being black

What is actually surreal is the fact that while we think everyone is looking at us and analyzing our every move, it’s just the exact opposite. Everyone is so self-absorbed to the extent that they wouldn’t notice if you wore the same outfit every day for a year.

I always found it crazy how America was basically two distinctly different worlds existing in one place.

I've been experiencing derealization for the past 4 years of my life. Nonstop. And I've been black longer lol. It's interesting just how much Atlanta and Jordan peele movies really do somehow depict how I feel a lot of the time.

As a young black woman growing up in the south it's very real lol, I feel like something will always feel weird if it isn't your reality. But that's also the beauty of television, you get to take a look into the worlds of those around you. It somewhat takes you into the life of weird or quirky African Americans in Atlanta if that makes sense.

WOW! The way you broke down information was amazing! To grasp the concept of a show and feel it so in depth is one thing, but to put it into words is another. And you did it so well! Thank you!

I completely agree. I feel oddly validated when I watch Atlanta. These are people in the same age group as me, same race as me, and having the exact same surrealistic experiences I've had most of my life...except, I'm in New York. The show is just perfectly brilliant ❤️

It occurs to me that the genre works so well, when it does, not only as an explication of marginalized people's experience but also as something that everyone can relate to. That odd feeling that something's not right, that we're missing something. It's a universal human experience.

Even though I have dealt with a lot of things that have occurred in Atlanta, a lot of Atlanta moments makes me feel things similar to cringe, because it feels both so real, but so awkward. I always end up pausing the show and doing something else because the show just makes me feel so weird.

10:10 That shot is incredible. What a unique way to make everything feel so uncomfortable.

I like the idea of afro surrealism as a way to frame the black experience in a way that can resonate with anyone regardless of race, class, etc. That is what I enjoy most about the show. Also, I never thought about Atlanta in relation to Twin Peaks or from a surrealist perspective but the parallels are obvious when you point them out. Thank you Thomas Flight. I can always count on your videos to show me new perspectives and add depth to so much I already love in film and television.

You really need to dig into the Childish Gambino videos (not just "This Is America") to understand the surrealist groundwork Donald laid a decade before Atlanta.

I think Missy Elliott videos from back in the day also have an aspect of Afro Surrealism in them. Was watching Work It and the scene where the slave turns the master into a slave by slapping him sticks out. Saw that and that and thought of this video. I think she definitely played with this concept as well.

I love that Donald hid his albums in the background of the show, it's super genius!

We love Atlanta so much and these 1st 2 episodes of season 3 did not disappoint. One of my favorite shows of all time, so, so good. You really nailed it about the off-ness and other-ness the show paints.

Atlanta really shows the uncertainty of our time: there's no real meaning in what we do and we should not seek it, we're just here

This was a beautiful analysis. Thank you both for working together to produce this video.

I never connected Atlanta to Twin Peaks but now it makes so much sense. Absolutely love the series. Rewatching for the second time and it's such an experience.

Amazing work. Thank you. I've always thought of Atlanta as a social satire first and foremost, the writers asking, "how can we make our audience uncomfortable with a truth we know" and like you said theres never an answer, as satire is never responsible for that. The surreal/absurdist moments that spring out of it are a delicious nuance, the writers way of physically showing these layers of society that are so embedded within they cant be confronted in any other sensible way.

Atlanta is absolutely incredible. I adore all of Twin Peaks as well, and Atlanta is one of the only shows that can give me that similar experience, sometimes even better. What an amazing show.

Ive watched this series since the premiere and you have brilliantly highlighted all of my favorite things about the series.

I'm always behind on good content, thanks for highlighting Atlanta! It looks really good!

I think magical realism is a thing going on with the show too. It's something that came to mind when I was watching Reservation Dogs, and it's really interesting to see a Native American experience on it as well. That show reminds me of Atlanta in a lot of ways, too

Thank you for this! I always thought of Atlanta as "Science Fiction." The scene with Darius discussing the simulation theory might be the most important scene in the series. Although this show is based in realism, it is heavily implied that the world and the characters that live in it is a simulation of the black experience. Some things that seem random at face value are actually riddled with symbolism, and some of the characters actions that seem irrational or just plain stupid is meant to teach them a lesson, like a cautionary tale. I encourage anyone to rewatch the series with this in mind

Learned something new, thanks. Love the production and clarity!

Thanks for making... the videos I can't put into words.... I've just watched a few and each one has been more impressive than the last. Thank you.

Honestly never watched Atlanta from this lens before but now that you mention it it really hits home

This is probably the best video on Atlanta, period! Glad that you connected dots with 'Sopranos' and 'Twin Peaks', really like your video-essays, man. Cheers from India!!

Great analysis! Loved the general tone and the music choices, Kudos!

Outstanding. Great work!

Perfect editing on the intro - I'm sure it works for people who haven't seen the show, but if you've seen it all, it's a total thematic recap. Really excellent video. Loved the scholarly discussion!

Glad to see you made a video on my favourite show of the past few years

Seriously incredibly work here dude! Watching this as I research my own Atlanta related video essay I have in the works and will be sure to drive people over here. This is so well researched and presented

This was a great video. Awesome job. Loved the breakdown. Atlanta is one of my favorite shows for this very reason.

Wow, that conclusion was really well-articulated. Great video!

The absolute best take I have ever seen on this amazing show. I never even heard the term "afro-surrealism" before your video but now it all makes sense and I'm so into it.

Such an insightful and nuanced analysis. Your efforts are appreciated.

Hey Dawg-nice to see you pop up here.

Watching just before ep 3. Great analysis, opens up the world of Atlanta even more.

Great job. It's awesome you took time listen to some one else's perspective on the subject matter and gave them your platform to share directly for themselves. You are attempting to be a good human being, that means a lot these days. Learned a lot.

this is a great video. A good take on the work. Thanks for sharing.

It’s awesome how everyone gets something different from this show. Sad it’s over, but looking forward to rewatching and seeing it from a new perspective.

oh man this was so cool, so glad people are taking a closer look at this really really interesting show

Thank you, I needed an excuse to watch Atlanta again, it's a perfect angle to do so.

I absolutely love this It always works my mind whenever you post a new video

such a masterfully curated video essay. well spoken piece and analysis

"You're wasting time. The only people who got time, are dead and if you're dead, I'm taking them shoes."

loved this. atlanta is my favorite show currently airing and this was a great breakdown of why I even feel that way about it.

This was fantastically DONE!! Thank you, I have never hear of Afro-surreal and I loved hearing about it. Thank you!

thank you for posting! this was great

The whole interview with D. Scot Miller raised so many facets that I've rarely heard or read. It'd be interesting, to have the interview uploaded as a whole.

Love that you actually had Miller on and got to talk to him

This was beautifully articulated and you can feel how intentional and careful you were in concocting this message, thank you ❤️

just discovered your channel... Loving it!

I would appreciate a video about Better Call Saul before or during the upcoming final season.The show definiteIy deserves more attention. I was never this hyped for a final season and I think it's the best show on tv and one of the best shows ever Keep up the good work

Really enjoyed this analysis! I've always compared Atlanta to David Lynch. The absurdity and strangeness of everyday life is very fascinating. I appreciate the surreal aspect of the show as presented through the black experience in America. So much of it is generally relatable to everyone. It is particularly enlightening to identify with the main cast while simultaneously seeing myself in the bizarre white characters throughout the show.

Your work and naration in your content is admirable.

Very well done! Everything makes so much sense now lol. This show gives me a feeling I can’t quite describe and this put everything into words. Appreciate the video 🙏🏾🙏🏾

I rarely binge watch shows, but it was impossible not to watch most of season 2 in one sitting.

"It causes me to examine if what I take for granted as 'normal' is creating an absurd reality for others." Damn this is a great thought. Thanks for making this video.

this is really good. love that you got a primary source as well to interview. subscribed.

Incredible video…I think I just landed on my next research focus. Immensely inspired 🙏🏾

Love this show , I’m a big David Lynch fan , sometimes when watching Atlanta I get that same feeling that something is right . The difference is that Atlanta seems to based very much in a real world where reality is stranger than fiction

I hope you'll revisit Atlanta now that the show has run its course, especially given the nature of the final episode. Hell, even the final shot of Lakeith Stanfield could have been used for a segment in your latest video about subtle performances-so much communicated with so little.

My brain...this is amazing. Thank you for your reflections and unique contributions.

What a genius video idea. Been aware of this art form for a while but it was amazing to hear it all articulated. Bravo

this reminds me of silence of the lambs and the shots they used to be from clarice's perspective of being in a male dominated space and like i always thought those shots really did just look so *weird* and this is making me realize how it could just be afrosurrealism(ex. the shot of all the men staring at the camera, as in her perspective, silently for a few seconds, or the shot of her in the elevator with all the other men)

I just saw the first episode of the third season and I found myself asking 'What IS this show 'Atlanta'?' It's not quite the drama/comedy that I thought it would be, it's something more. This video helped me have a greater understanding of 'Atlant'. Thank you.

Atlanta is very thought provoking and just smart. Your reflective commentary and take on it was done very well and also smart.

Great vid and breakdown of Atlanta I Love this show 🙌🏾

I miss this show, can't wait for more

You literally nailed it right at the beginning. Saying it has a soft mythology to it and dream like situations. I couldn't put it in words until now.

Bro i can't explain how much i love your videos

I was toying with mentioning Twin Peaks....seriously enjoyed that series, bring back the support log!!

The first episode of the new season was so good that shit blew me away. It’s definitely my second favorite episode of Atlanta so far. My number one favorite is Teddy Perkins of course

Second episode of the new season presents afro-surrealism so well through Earn and Alfred's story with a certain cultural Christmas practice... Even funnier how absurd they ended it too.

This is a amazing video exploring afro-surrealism, thanks for sharing your thoughts and deep diving into the topic.

This was thought-provoking! Thank you for sharing.

GOD DAMN ive been trying to find a way to explain these thoughts in words and have never been able to accurately describe the feelings this show gives me or the tactics it uses to get me feel these things. its SO damn effective and ive thought someone more well spoken than myself should make this video for a LONG ASS TIME. thank you.

The show is not surreal at all. It's very real. As someone who's spent years in the black area of Atlanta, this show is the most realistic depiction of real life I've ever seen.

this whole video just blew my mind open. thank you.