I can see what some other reviewers mean about the perceived racism towards the white couple, but I would choose the word prejudiced.
The white couple are quite extra and have a naivety to them. Yes, Dave comes across as a bit of a tit, but a few episodes in, we learn that he was in the military, and can hold his own. Agreed, that's not much depth to the character, but none of them have much depth really. Gemma is the principal of a progressive school, so a bit new age flaky, but these kind of people mean well. I agree though that their kid is not the best actor.
I think it is good that one of the Bulter's (black family) sons is a geeky space engineer, even though he is from a blue collar family and neighbourhood. I think this is important to show that there are all types of people in all races, and it is also aspirational. Even a silly, lightweight sitcom can show that anyone can be anything if they apply themselves. It also shows the Butlers as having a strong, together family and their own business - an obvious reality, but I think some people need reminding of this. Some readers might roll their eyes at what I've said, but hey.
However, to me, the point of the show is to demonstrate how people of all races have ideas and prejudices about other races, and that when they actually get to know people they wouldn't normally mix with, they see they have similarities, and can become friends if they open their minds and have a little trust.
I may need to add that I am from a very ethnically mixed area of the UK, and it seems perceptions and race relations are quite different in America.
The white couple are quite extra and have a naivety to them. Yes, Dave comes across as a bit of a tit, but a few episodes in, we learn that he was in the military, and can hold his own. Agreed, that's not much depth to the character, but none of them have much depth really. Gemma is the principal of a progressive school, so a bit new age flaky, but these kind of people mean well. I agree though that their kid is not the best actor.
I think it is good that one of the Bulter's (black family) sons is a geeky space engineer, even though he is from a blue collar family and neighbourhood. I think this is important to show that there are all types of people in all races, and it is also aspirational. Even a silly, lightweight sitcom can show that anyone can be anything if they apply themselves. It also shows the Butlers as having a strong, together family and their own business - an obvious reality, but I think some people need reminding of this. Some readers might roll their eyes at what I've said, but hey.
However, to me, the point of the show is to demonstrate how people of all races have ideas and prejudices about other races, and that when they actually get to know people they wouldn't normally mix with, they see they have similarities, and can become friends if they open their minds and have a little trust.
I may need to add that I am from a very ethnically mixed area of the UK, and it seems perceptions and race relations are quite different in America.
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