How a magazine collection became a critically acclaimed sanctuary for immigrant stories
In short: In an era of polarized headlines, a television series chose to look at the quiet, unexpected lives of immigrants. By focusing on the human rather than the political, Little America transformed a collection of true stories into a critically acclaimed exploration of the American experience.
Little America began its journey as a collection of true stories featured in Epic Magazine. In February 2018, Apple announced it would develop a television series based on these narratives. The production team, which included writers Lee Eisenberg, Kumail Nanjiani, and Emily V. Gordon, aimed to move beyond common news tropes to highlight the funny, romantic, and heartfelt lives of immigrants. The show was designed to be an empathetic investment in people who are often relegated to the background of mainstream media.
The production faced real-world logistical hurdles that mirrored the themes of the show. While filming primarily took place in New Jersey starting in early 2019, the production had to move the filming of the eighth episode, "The Son," to Quebec, Canada. This move was necessitated by Executive Order 13780, which prevented certain actors from entering the United States. This specific episode tells the story of a gay asylum seeker from Syria, highlighting the complex intersection of identity and legal status.
The series has garnered significant critical acclaim for its unassuming and humanistic approach. The first season debuted on January 17, 2020, and was followed by a second season on December 9, 2022. Critics have praised the show for its "casual confidence" and "enduring insight." On Rotten Tomatoes, the first season holds a 95% approval rating, while the second season maintains a perfect 100% rating, with Metacritic awarding the series a score of 85 out of 100, signaling universal acclaim.
Ultimately, the show serves as a "secret weapon" for the streaming platform because of its emotional resonance. By focusing on quirky yet relatable payoffs, it provides a space for stories that are often overlooked. It balances the bittersweet reality of the immigrant experience with a sense of joy, making it a smart choice for viewers seeking depth over flashy spectacle.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Little America (TV series)
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