Complex and Paramount Plus teamed up this week to debut the upcoming season to a beloved series dubbed “Dreaming Whilst Black” ahead of the upcoming Season 2 for the UK-based show.
Directed and co-written by actor/author Adjani Salmon, the series is a brilliant comedy-drama that follows a Jamaican-British director during his journey to finding meaningful work that tells stories that he can relate to. Season 1 which debuted in the UK in 2021 has been maintaining momentum since the series was picked up by Showtime and showcased on Paramount Plus. Season 1 of Dreaming Whilst Black was fueled by job struggles, a relationship that went south and plenty of family dynamics that are very familiar to many viewers. A whirlwind ending to Season 1 which was a subtle 6 episode series, left fans on a cliffhanger that was perfect for the Season 2 pick-up.
This past week, Paramount recruited Complex Magazine to host a private screening of Season 2 for ‘Dreaming Whilst Black” at the illustrious Crosby Hotel Theater. The lavish venue opened their doors to a small collection of influencers, press and beloved friends and family of Adjani. Once the doors opened to the theater, guest were lead down to the retro-styled theater. The corridor to the theater was adorned in festive touches such as a Candy Bar fueled by sweets like Swedish Fish, M&M’s, Jelly beans and much more. Popcorn and water were also made available for guests ahead of the showtime which was softly introduced by Adjani himself. The lights to the theater dimmed and the show began. Guests enjoyed the first 2 episodes of the new Season (which we can’t expose the plot), which was a great introduction to what we can say is a fun-filled and educational start to the new season. These episodes showcased developed writing that expands the story-telling and character growth from Season 1. Kwabena (Adjani’s character) holds your attention with his journey to find the dream opportunity while we get a glance at his close friends, family and even an old flame.
As the final credits rolled and the lights of the theater re-illuminated, a table and two chairs hit center stage for a detailed Q&A which was hosted by Complex journalist Jillian Hardeman-Webb. This segment of the event was as entertaining and educational as the featured film itself, as Jillian dug deep with questions for Adjani. The crowd was informed on the process of creating the show, the struggles associated with telling a culture-based story and getting the heads of major companies to see the vision. Adjani shared many secrets to success but drove home the message that “Starting is pivotal to succeeding and don’t worry about what people won’t like, just create what you love”.
As the ovation subsided, the crowd was escorted back into the corridor which has now be transformed into a social networking space that was fueled by hor’dourves and a bar pouring up classic drink choices (We indulged in Bullet Whiskey w/ Ginger Beer). Brilliantly designed was a photo-booth room that featured a full “Dreaming Whilst Black” back-drop where many guests lined up to take a picture with Adjani. The entire experience was a mesh of film enthusiasm mixed with NYC influence and great energy.
Enjoy More Views From The Private Screening of “Dreaming Whilst Black” Below!
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