becoming (in two parts)

'Becoming' is a two-part documentary series that delves into the personal journeys of Michelle Obama, the 44th First Lady of the United States. The series is a poignant and introspective exploration of her life, love, loss, and identity. On the surface, it appears to be a traditional memoir, but on closer inspection, it reveals itself to be a profound and deeply moving exploration of the complexities of human existence. The series begins with Michelle's childhood, where she shares stories of her humble beginnings in Chicago, her parents' struggles, and the values that her family instilled in her. These early experiences shape her worldview and inform her relationships, including her marriage to Barack Obama. Through a series of intimate conversations with her daughter, Malia, Michelle opens up about her struggles with identity, both as a woman and as a black person in America. As the series progresses, Michelle navigates the complexities of her role as First Lady, balancing her duties with her own sense of self. She shares anecdotes about the challenges she faced, from the scrutiny of the media to the pressure to be a perfect wife and mother. Through it all, Michelle remains steadfast in her commitment to herself and her family, a testament to her strength and resilience. However, beneath the surface of Michelle's story lies a complex web of ghosts from her past and future. These lingering presences take the form of relationships, experiences, and choices that have shaped her life. There's her mother, Marian, who instilled in her the values of hard work and determination. There's Barack, with whom she built a life and a legacy. And there's her younger self, full of hope and idealism, who struggled to find her place in the world. As the series unfolds, these ghosts become more prominent, manifesting as Michelle grapples with her present sense of self. She reflects on the choices she's made, the relationships she's formed, and the person she's become. Through a series of candid conversations with her mother, daughters, and close friends, Michelle invites these ghosts into the present, examining the ways in which they continue to shape her identity. In this sense, 'Becoming' is both a dance and a ghost story, as Michelle navigates the intricacies of her own being. She's inviting in these ghosts, but also expelling them, as she seeks to reconcile her past, present, and future selves. It's a process that's both deeply personal and profoundly relatable, as Michelle invites us to join her on this journey of self-discovery. Throughout the series, Michelle's story is interwoven with the stories of other women, each of whom has faced her own set of challenges and struggles. There's the single mother working multiple jobs to make ends meet, the young woman grappling with her own identity, and the elder woman reflecting on a life well-lived. Through their stories, Michelle highlights the universal experiences that unite us, even as our individual circumstances may differ. One of the most striking aspects of 'Becoming' is its attention to the intersections of identity, particularly in the context of racism and sexism. Michelle shares her experiences as a black woman in America, where she's been both revered and marginalized. Her conversations with other women of color offer a poignant exploration of the ways in which societal expectations can both empower and oppress us. As the series draws to a close, Michelle invites us to join her on a final stage of her journey, one that's both deeply personal and profoundly hopeful. It's an invitation to explore our own ghosts, to confront the choices we've made, and to reconcile our past, present, and future selves. Through her story, Michelle offers a vision of a world where we can be ourselves, without apology, where our ghosts can rest easy, and where we can become the best versions of ourselves. The series concludes with a sense of resolve, as Michelle reflects on her legacy and her hope for the future. It's a testament to the power of her story, which has inspired countless women and girls around the world. 'Becoming' is a movie experience that will leave you moved, inspired, and perhaps even a little more introspective about your own identity and experiences.