Yesterday afternoon I found out on Instagram that superstar, comedian Kevin Hart was releasing a new docuseries on Netflix. The caption read …” My doc is dropping on Netflix tomorrow…. I can’t wait for you guys to see it. P.S it drops at MIDNIGHT…..” Kevin Hart is a global phenomenon that I have admired for a long time. When I couldn’t sleep last night, I decided to roll over, pop on Netflix, and watch the docuseries for myself. Before I knew it, it was 4:01AM, I had finished the series and now have a newfound respect for Mr. Hart.
In a world where content is king, there are so many projects available for audiences to consume. As a scholar of television, I’m often underwhelmed by the movies and shows I watch. Kevin Hart’s docuseries entitled, ‘Don’t F— This Up’ is unlike anything I have ever seen. The authenticity, storytelling and execution of the doc made it a fascinating watch. Here are some of the reasons I believe that everyone should check out Kevin Hart’s new Netflix docuseries.
Superb Storytelling
Aside from being an actor, fitness model, and social media megastar, at his essence, Kevin Hart is a comedian. If there is one thing that comedians are good at, at their core, it is the art of storytelling. Throughout ‘Don’t F— This Up,’ Kevin instantly draws you in with his ability to tell his story in a way that is relatable, sincere, and heartfelt. How Kevin Hart speaks about his parents and how he is equally a product of both of them was delicate and respectful. If there was one thing that audiences can take away from Mr. Hart is that he is self-aware. All of his decisions and actions may not be perfect, but Kevin has a way of expressing himself that makes you ‘get it.’ With each story he tells I was not only entertained and captivated but also learned countless life lessons along the way. The storytelling and method in which the film journeys through Kevin’s life make the docuseries hard to turn away from and force you to watch it from beginning to end.
The Respect For His Work Ethic
One of the biggest takeaways that came from ‘Don’t F— This Up’ was that Kevin Hart is a hard worker. Regardless of what anyone can say about Kevin, the truth is he has worked diligently to get to where he is today. There are no gimmicks, no nepotism, or fluff, Kevin works hard. Witnessing someone on a journey of upward social mobility is inspiring. Hearing Kevin express that he wants his kids to have “everything he didn’t have and more,” and how he is willing to work himself to the bone for that is honorable. After finishing the documentary I have a deeper appreciation for Kevin Hart and his accolades. I can’t wait until the day he becomes a billionaire because, after the work that I’ve seen he and his HartBeat Productions team do, I know it is coming.
The Idea of Forgiveness
The docu-series is not a perfectly curated frame of Kevin’s life. In each episode, there are moments of drama, conflict and tragedy. A recurring theme throughout the series is the idea of forgiveness. Kevin candidly shows that with a lot of success comes a lot of negativity. While watching ‘Don’t F— This Up’ I couldn’t help but see how Kevin works hard to forgive his parents, his friends, and, most importantly, himself. No matter how wealthy, intelligent, or successful one, may be none of us are exempt from the trials of life. One thing that Kevin taught me is that sometimes people can hurt you, and it is okay to forgive, he also taught me that it is also okay to mess up as long as you learn. The ups and downs that Kevin faces throughout the doc is a sure way to keep audiences captivated and also teach them valuable lessons.
Brotherhood
Outside of the Morehouse College universe, I very seldom see genuine friendship among black men. The docuseries would not be what it is if it weren’t for the Plastic Cup Boyz. Kevin and his ‘bro-squad’ add a unique nuance to the series, that I’m not sure mainstream America has seen before. It is clear that Kevin loves his friends, it is also clear that they love him. The scene where Kevin cries as he preps his best friend, Harry, for his big wedding day will make anyone’s heart tingle. I appreciated the respectful and honest representation of Kevin’s love for his friends, it makes the docuseries something special.
I Want More
The glimpse that an audience member can get into the life of Kevin Hart and his family and friends is beautiful, but I want more. I really enjoy listening to Kevin talk to a camera with his candor and reliability. I also enjoyed hearing from Eniko, listening to his Dad, and even seeing the bold personalities of his children. I know reality television can’t exist without drama, but I would love a reality series centered on Kevin’s life and family. Who are Eniko’s friends? What does his father, Spoon, do during the day? Do Boss and Kev, ever fight anymore? Kevin is the truth and an open book, it would be lovely to watch a show about Kevin’s life–maybe they could call it ‘The Hart of It All.’ If the Kardashians can be megastars and share their experiences, I would love to see The Harts share theirs.
Conclusion
‘Don’t F— This Up’ is not just a self-promotional film, it isn’t just another docuseries. This documentary is an intimate, reflection of a flawed superstar. If anyone watches this production with an open heart and mind, they will genuinely be snatched up by Kevin’s story. I’m excited to see what he will do next in the coming years, and it is truly an honor to watch the making of an icon.
You can check out the Netflix docuseries available now by clicking HERE.