Colin in Black & White (2021) User Reviews (269)

Enjoying the storytelling!

[din-nova · 7/10 · 29 October 2021]

I am not sure why this show has such a low rating (but I will write why I think it has so in the end of this review).

I am myself nor American (I am Swedish) nor am I black but I do have a big intrest in learning about equislity rights in general and read a lot about America. When I first ever heard about Colin Kaepernick was because of his kneeling. This has made me a fan of mister Kaepernick, because he is not afraid to show what he belives in, so yes I am a bit bias in that aspect in this review.

The show is about the love for fotball and baseball that Colin Kaepernick has and how a passion like that gives meanings in many different ways. Both of Colins parents are ordinary people who happends to be white. They don't always see how for examples some things can be racial micro aggressions or how the word 'thug' can be condescending when used of how someone lools like. They are just not aware because of their white privileged. This is of importans since it's a reality. The education about rasism is well put and soft. Though I would guess that it's a bit sugercoated.

Most importantant is that it's a young mans story and perspective. The young Kaepernick is a man who is navigating throgh who he is and what he belives in. He has excellent grades, friends and good but naive parents. He lives in a white town and seem to be almost the only tall and black man. Keapernick hiself is also the narrator and descibes to the viewer of his past thoughts and how ge views them. As a narrator of this show he also educates with history, perspective and scenarios on rasism which is partly why I enjoy this show so much.

The show is in it self is easy, exciting, educational and fun to watch! It reminds me a bit of the show "Young Sheldon", but has more maturness and is not a sitcome.

I know there are some people in Americans who doesnt agree with Colin Kaepernicks kneeling. With that I am aware that The UNited states seems torn when it comes to politics which I am guessing some people have rated this show so low. Because lets be honest this show is good! So don't judge this show by the low ratings, I would guess the ratings are more political than anything else.

I belive this show is for everyone who like some easygoing drama. The storytelling is perfect but I am missing a more deep understanding of the young Colin. I would like to have heard more about his identity. On the same time that might would have made the meaning of the show go away!

A beautiful boy

[MrOPositive · 7/10 · 30 October 2021]

What a beautiful coming of age story about a biracial boy raised in the suburbs by a white couple and all the rites of passages he goes through attempting to reach his potential.

Kaepernick's future and polarizing position in life is so clear from the childhood he had. It's history repeating itself, for not just him but any nonwhite child growing up in a predominantly white community or schooling.

The difference is the highs he achieved, that allowed this story to be financed. I really enjoyed it. The performances were good and the moments were touching. I was actually left wanting more.

If you're not interested in conversations about race or seeing black people navigate America, this might be the wrong entertainment for you.

Six because of directorial choices, 10 for story

[ukgreek · 6/10 · 31 October 2021]

This is an important story, and if you think the racism portrayed is somehow over the top, you're definitely missing the point. That IS the problem. And that his parents were supportive and generally good parents illustrates that sometimes even the most involved and loving white parents of black kids won't be able to understand what their kid is going through. Of course things really are that bad. As a white person, I see people subjected to racism enough that believing this story is a no brainer. It's not every person's story, but it's his and it's not that unusual (except for CK's talent and drive). It's everyday racism--and I remember the description of microaggressions, thinking, "that's hardly micro".

I had more of a problem with the script and the way the story was told in some parts. I got a little tired of hearing that CK really wanted to be a QB. At some point, that's a given or it ends. I think it would've been more successful in the hands of a better director. Regardless, I'm glad we got to see what led up to CK's activism, which I'll always be in awe of.

Watch, listen, learn

[Seppe_VB · 8/10 · 6 November 2021]

It's pretty obvious who the people giving the 1 star reviews are. Obviously they have a hard time reading statistics and struggle with any form of empathy. I saw a review here that read "he divided a nation" - sure. That right there tells you more than you need to know. Colin is an extremely talented player who wanted to do the right thing. A role model for many.

Do your best to ignore the you-know-whos

[killercola · 9/10 · 31 October 2021]

It's really good. I came in with average expectations but Ava does it again. Introspective and insightful. Definitely worth a watch. And ignore the one star reviews. They're just trolls who are still hurt by his peaceful kneeling.

So much ignorance in the world...

[landonbfielder · 7/10 · 31 October 2021]

I guarantee the vast majority of the 1-star reviews are racist and/or a Kaepernick haters. Regardless of which "side" you fall on, the series was creative, interesting, entertaining and had great storytelling. Was it a 10? Definitely not, but I enjoyed it, and kept an open mind while watching. Is that so hard for others to do the same?

The only part that I didn't like was the comparison between the NFL Combine and slavery. Last I checked, the combine is VOLUNTARY, and an event most players are honored to be invited to, because it gives them a chance to showcase themselves and their talents, and then hopefully be drafted early and get a nice salary and signing bonus. Yes, the combine is invasive, insensitive, and has ample room for improvement, but to go as far as to say it's like slavery? That's just wrong.

But overall, it's worth a watch! UNLESS you're a bigot or racist, bc unfortunately, you'll never get past your stubbornness and hatred..

Uncomfortable Truth

[daphparker · 10/10 · 2 November 2021]

If this series made you uncomfortable then Kapernick did his job as a story teller. This was a well done, thought provoking series. There were some relatable situations that I myself went through. I laughed and I cried. Bravo to Ava Durvenay and Colin Kaepernick the Executive Producer's. I ignored all the uncomfortable critics. I believe it is in poor taste for critics to comment if they have zero experience being black in America. I look forward to seeing a part two.

Not perfectly done, but important and compelling

[mkramer50 · 7/10 · 5 November 2021]

Sometimes a story succeeds because of what it has to say, not necessarily because of how well it is told. The low rating clearly shows this country's political/social divide. A relative of mine asked me what Colin is financially worth, as to say what Colin has to say is not important because he is a multi-millionaire. His finances only allow him an opportunity to share his story which is what's important here. I am a white male. I've never been profiled, I have taken advantage of my opportunities through out my life. Bottom line, people who are not white are profiled constantly and are not awarded the same opportunities. Period. This show is simplified way to much, but makes a point so important it cannot be ignored.

Great series!

[mgitts1977 · 9/10 · 29 October 2021]

This was wonderfully done, but it will definitely trigger some. Give it a chance, watch it with an open mind, and don't let the negative reviews dissuade you. It honestly shows what a lot of Americans/ppl think and act like towards others who are different due to their fear or ignorance-- which I'm sure has been witnessed by many. I'm sure as you read some of the reviews and see the ratings, the aforementioned ppl will show you who they are.

Unbiased Review

[mitch_macka · 6/10 · 2 November 2021]

I watched this and noticed how divisive the reviews were (I had to Google who Collin was).

This was a genuinely interesting series of an individual's mindset on their road to living out their dreams. It reflects on society, race, culture, and opportunity.

A lot of critical comments here saying that the series was "too one sided"... well it is autobiographical. So that's deliberate.

It was fine, I learnt some perspective as well.

Inspirational

[lat297 · 9/10 · 7 November 2021]

Let's get one thing straight from the start: when Colin took the knee it triggered the very worst of America as well as the very best. And that's what you'll see reflected in the reviews here on IMDB.

I am sure that many of the scenes in this short series will spark anger. To many, this will feel like 6 episodes of whining and playing the race card.

But for many more people, this will be an inspiring story. A lesson in perseverance, in being yourself and in standing up, or taking a knee, for what you believe in.

To everyone else, the people who can't get past their outrage and anger, all I have to say is this: please post your 1 star reviews, slam Colin for his lecturing, reaffirm that America is great and that this is a load of crap. The more you do that, the more right you make him, the better this series is, and the more necessary it becomes that people watch it.

Great work

[kenyaekofi · 10/10 · 2 November 2021]

I loved this mini series. This mini series was amazing to watch with his experiences in this horrible country. Growing up adopted with two white parents who couldn't understand the experience of being black in America. He had to cut off his hair for his baseball team. Social racism, stereotyped by police, and many other experiences being related through racism. I myself have been stereotyped, and had social racism with other whites. Colin even still deals with racism in these reviews. The acting was good. The show was relatable. I was called "one of the good ones" as well. I had no idea what that mean't. I also loved the historical facts and comparisons with slavery and modern day sports. I feel the truth is the harsh reality is that life isn't made for you. Just do what you choose to do and block out the noise! I really appreciated this mini series! Thank you Netflix and thank you Colin! Black power.

Guaranteed that most of the reviews are from those who didn't watch it

[kmaclg2 · 6/10 · 31 October 2021]

Whether you love him, hate him, or don't know anything about him...this limited series has as many touchdowns as it does fumbles. (See what I did there). The acting is perfectly fine, the photography is good, but young Colin was no where near convincing as a top level high school athlete. The kid just didn't have it. The visual storytelling was creative and fresh, but the story itself was too over the top with its racism. Not in the sense that it was hard to watch, but that it was simply unbelievable. Squeezing ever little bit of adversity and racism as they could, it just felt too much. But the message behind his life is powerful, and if you strip away the person and the name, and look at it as a human story...it's great. And I'm not fan of Kap at all, but I did find this to be a worthy watch if you want to feel some motivational power grow within. Happy viewing friends.

Glad I watched and Really listened ⭐

[jodee143 · 10/10 · 31 October 2021]

Grateful for this opportunity to learn a plethora of black history in America. The information is interesting and interwoven throughout the story. There's just 6 episodes. From his early life as a kid. Good to know and understand more about the man. I would like to know more. Colin works with several charities and gives of his time. I want to know what he's up to now.

Half of these reviews didn't watch movie

[Lordknows262 · 6/10 · 10 December 2021]

There is a book called million dollar slave, the comparison is a perspective from an African Americans experience in America. There is a joke that goes, what do you call a Black man with a PHD, a luxury car and a family man? A ni$$er, is what half of America will call him. Thats what half of these reviews are doing now. The movie is educational and worth a watch.

This old white lady loved it!

[loveswillow · 10/10 · 6 November 2021]

I'd heard of Colin Kaepernick for years, especially from President Trump, so I knew there was more to the story. Thank you Netflix for bravely producing this limited season. It was uncomfortable at times because I saw myself in the predjudice from the Caucasians. It stung, and rightly so. I gave it a 10 because it changed me! I was shocked at the 1 and 2 ratings. Did they even watch it? Actors were incredible, I'm recommending it to my family and friends.

Maybe watch it first?

[mike-57253 · 6/10 · 4 November 2021]

There are a lot of barely-veiled reviews from people that just don't like the subject & dont make any reference to the actual content.

-Yeah, Colin Kaepernick made money.

-Yeah, he kneeled during the national anthem of a country in which his parents were born into legal apartheid.

-Yeah, he was coming off a down year when he got blackballed but was clearly one of the top 60-90 QBs in the world still. Probably could have started for a few teams and better than almost every team's backup.

Side note: much like the underlying evidence for climate change & Anthony Fauci, the phrase "black lives matter" is only political to a small sect of easily triggered right wing culture warriors. To the rest of them world, the accusation that these are inherently political things only tells us exactly who you are.

My advice would be to watch this and rate it on the merits. Not whether or not you believe rich black people are allowed to acknowledge basic truths about the culture they grew up in.

Outstanding

[laserwiz77 · 10/10 · 30 October 2021]

I felt that the production of this series was fine but compared to the man featured in it (Colin Kaepernick) it was a bit lacking. I'm pretty sure that there is nobody ON THE PLANET who had the ability to be drafted into the MLB, the NFL, play in the Probowl AND the Superbowl!! On top of that he holds a record for QB rushing yards that still holds AND he was 4.0 GPA athlete to boot!! In addition to that he is an activist for a worthy cause. When I heard that Nike picked him up as a spokesperson I bought their stock and am glad I did! Thanks to Netflix for providing yet another platform for this stellar individual.... Haters be damned!

Trust your power, lover your blackness, you know who you are

[pammia-637-152524 · 10/10 · 4 November 2021]

Totally blown away by this autobiography of Colin Kaepernick. The low ratings only come from people that would never understand what being Black in America from the prospective of being adopted by white parents and living a life that typically "only white" boys would experience. From 1965 (school integration) to today I have experienced the same and similar experiences. Thank God that he was able to show his blackness in a white world that even in "ratings" are degrading and deprecating to a person who has achieved so much and represents the pinnacle of pride in race, pride in opposing injustice and pride in achievements. The 6 episodes were a treatise on a life that has truy OVERCOME. His journey to becoming a quarterback is awe inspiring and this story will become the JANE PITTMAN for the younger generation. The director and story writer were all A+.

Moved Me to Tears

[dave42c · 31 October 2021]

In some ways, Colin had a privileged childhood with white parents. But in other ways, his loving but sometimes unwoke parents seemed occasionally (understandably) a bit clueless about racism, dark skin bias, racist micro-regressions, etc.

As an Asian American, I consider Colin a Hero in the BLM movement. Bringing much needed attention to the horrific, systemic, racist 'structured violence' that too many African Americans have had to suffer for Hundreds of years.

His action cost him his beloved career. A sacrifice that, sadly, even former, Progressive, supreme court justice, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, did not appreciate.

Anyway, it was great to see Colin's story so far.

Looking forward to All future seasons of Colin Kaepernick's journey.

Will definitely recommend this to everyone on the internet !

Better than the reviews

[Bing-Heckman · 7/10 · 5 November 2021]

This is not just Colon's story. It is U. S.history and it is a classic story of struggle, perseverance and learning to value oneself. It is very important to be in touch with the leanings of one's heart. There can be a lot of noise that distracts or tries hard to redirect. Easy ways are tempting. However one's heart is a sacred gift thought it may lead to big challenges.

Go in with an open mind

[fallen_voice · 8/10 · 2 November 2021]

Those who have complained about the story being told and how it's being told, are precisely the reason the story needs telling. This is just offering a different perspective to a world many of us couldn't possibly understand. Kaepernick isn't whining, he's just speaking his truth, and he's showing us there's more to pro-sports than we realize, and how naive we have really been.

Letter To a Younger Colin

[owen-watts · 6/10 · 29 May 2022]

I wasn't at all familiar with Colin Kaepernick and this semi-fictionalized docu-drama is earnest, fascinating and quite structurally uneven. Kaepernick appears as himself and presents his past as an education for the viewer, and a prism through which to see contemporary race tensions in American society. Parker and Offerman do a solid job as his well-meaning but often out-of-their-depth parents. The more the series leans out of his experiences with race and into his desperation to become a quarterback the less compelling it is because... spoilers... but quarterback Colin Kaepernick is a quarterback. Although I'm surprised reading his wiki that there's not much mention of his faith here, or his tortoise. Give me Sammy spin-off.

Great

[karrinna · 10/10 · 30 October 2021]

Very honest, touching and insightful so that people who could not possibly understand where Colin is coming from, can get an idea of what lead him to the choices he made as a man and activist. Kneeling has nothing to do with disrespecting America or the flag. I am a combat veteran, also half white and black and even after coming back from Afghanistan, dealt with so many ignorance and prejudice! I'm good enough to fight for you but not good enough to not get pulled over and be profiled, this is not the America we want. Do better people. And stop rating stuff based off your prejudice when you didn't even watch it people.

Great show

[stuart-meagher · 10/10 · 30 October 2021]

Honestly most of the bad reviews are from haters and driven by personal politics. This is a great show and extremely enlightening. A must watch. Really enjoyed it. Fair play to Colin and he's actually better than I thought he would be as an actor or speaker.