In this episode of Student Pages Magazine, we catch up with Akins Subair and Chenée Taylor, stars of the upcoming BBC Three drama “Just Act Normal.” The actors delve into the depth of their characters, discussing how they relate personally to Tiana and Tionne, and the universal struggles of adolescence and familial dynamics depicted in the series. Streaming now on BBC Iplayer.
The series is based on Janice Okoh’s play Three Birds and produced by The Forge (The Buccaneers, Help, Ackley Bridge) with Nathaniel Matello-White (The Strays) directing. The play originally starred Michaela Coel and Susan Wokoma, so there’s a real legacy of rising stars that come with it and quite a fun inheritance for the young newcomers set to star.
The cast consists of brilliant newcomers Akins Subair, Chenée Taylor, Kaydrah Walker-Wilkie, alongside familiar faces including Romola Garai, Sam Buchanan, Ivanno Jermiah, Jennifer Metcalfe and Jamelia.
It’s an irreverent portrait of black working-class teenage life filmed in and around Birmingham, exploring the first times; the f*ck-ups and the excruciating desire to be more grown up than you are or that you might be ready for. It’s a celebration of black joy; of council estates and corner shops. Of working-class living and working-class dreams. It is human and tender, with a thumping great heart.
Gain an understanding of the compelling and pertinent themes woven into the narrative by the gifted writer, Janice Okoh, highlighting its relatability and reflection of real-life experiences. The guests emphasize the importance of compassion and grace towards stories unfamiliar, urging viewers to reflect on their personal lives while resonating with the depicted challenges of society on both comedic and somber notes. This episode serves as a tribute to the power of storytelling and its ability to foster empathy and understanding, encouraging a collective effort to nurture younger generations amidst life’s complexities.
