Government Cheese: Surreal Black Family in the Valley

“Government Cheese,” a new series on Apple TV+ created by Paul Hunter and Aeysha Carr, brings a fresh and imaginative take on a Black family navigating life in the San Fernando Valley during the late 1960s. The show, which premieres this Wednesday, follows the Chambers family and their surreal adventures.

Paul Hunter, the creator of “Government Cheese,” drew inspiration from his own family’s experiences but found that many studios were hesitant to embrace Black characters and narratives that didn’t fit typical stereotypes. However, Hunter persisted and turned his script into a short film starring David Oyelowo before expanding it into a full series.

Starring David Oyelowo as Hampton Chambers, the series dives into the life of a man fresh out of prison for check fraud, coming home to a family that has undergone significant changes in his absence. His wife, Astoria (played by Simone Missick), is pursuing a career in interior design, while his sons Harrison (Jahi Di’Allo Winston) and Einstein (Evan Ellison) are each navigating their own unique paths.

At the core of the show is Hampton’s invention of the Bit Magician, a self-sharpening drill that he hopes will secure his family’s financial future. However, Hampton’s past mistakes and criminal ties threaten to derail his plans, leading to a series of unexpected and whimsical events.

“Government Cheese” promises a visually striking and imaginative storytelling experience, with colorful visuals reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s style. The series challenges traditional storytelling structures and brings a fresh perspective to the screen, showcasing the creative vision of its creators, Paul Hunter and Aeysha Carr. Get ready for a wild and surreal ride with “Government Cheese” on Apple TV+!