In the latest episode of The Black Watch, BOSSIP and Cassius staffers weighed in on two new TV series drawing attention for very different reasons: Netflix’s Nemesis and HBO Max’s DTF St. Louis. The discussion featured BOSSIP Managing Editor Dani Canada, iONE Digital Director of Content for the Men’s Division Alvin Blanco, executive producer Serita Wesley, and comedian-writer Richard Jones, who broke down the shows’ strengths, weaknesses, and standout performances. The conversation centered on how both series blend crime, suspense, and character drama, while also prompting debate over whether audiences are judging them too harshly against bigger classics and stranger expectations.
Nemesis, created by Power’s Courtney A. Kemp, follows a tense cat-and-mouse story between an LAPD detective and a criminal mastermind in Los Angeles. The panel described it as an entertaining, high-energy thriller with enough twists to keep viewers engaged, even if it does not reach the level of iconic crime dramas like Heat. Some panelists questioned the acting and presentation, with comments about the show feeling more like a fun ride than a prestige drama. Still, they agreed the story is compelling and moves at a fast pace. The conversation also highlighted how viewers often hold Black-led productions to an especially high standard, even when the goal is simply to deliver a stylish, entertaining watch.
The panel was more unified in praising the women in Nemesis, who they said gave the series much of its emotional weight. Gabrielle Dennis was singled out for bringing depth beyond the action and police pursuit, while Sophina Brown was praised for a commanding on-screen presence that immediately commanded attention. The discussion also touched on the show’s personal storylines, hair and styling details, and the way the cast’s relationships help make the series feel bigger than its crime plot alone.
The conversation then shifted to DTF St. Louis, a dark comedy starring Jason Bateman, Linda Cardellini, and David Harbour. The show follows middle-aged adults whose attempts to break out of their stagnant routines lead to increasingly dangerous consequences. Initial reactions focused on the provocative title and the ordinary, suburban feel of the characters, but the panel ultimately found the series more interesting than expected. They noted that its humor, mystery, and steadily unfolding investigation help balance the awkwardness of its premise.
Alvin Blanco said the characters frustrated him at first, but the arrival of Joy Sunday’s detective character gave the story more momentum and clarity. Dani Canada said the show works because it shows average people making increasingly reckless choices, while Serita Wesley praised Bateman’s performance and said she trusts him in almost anything he does. Richard Jones added that the series thrives on its dark humor and unpredictable tone. Overall, the panel agreed that DTF St. Louis may surprise viewers who expect something cruder or simpler, but its performances and twist-filled storytelling make it worth watching.
