Two Netflix Series Explore the American Dream: Self Made and True Story

Two Netflix miniseries examine the American Dream from contrasting perspectives. Self Made tells the true story of Sarah Breedlove, known as Madame C.J. Walker, the first African American woman to become a millionaire. Played by Octavia Spencer, Walker started as a laundress with only three months of education and two failed marriages. Through passion and determination, she built a hair care brand for Black women, filling a market gap. Along with her daughter A'Lelia, a philanthropist and patron, she contributed to Harlem's cultural renaissance. In contrast, True Story, starring Kevin Hart and Wesley Snipes, presents a comedic yet bitter tale that questions the myth of success. Created by Eric Newman, the series follows Kid, a comedian whose personal and family drama coincides with career highs, forcing viewers to confront moral dilemmas about ends justifying means.