“Gentefied” is a comedy series that premiered on Netflix in 2020 and ran for two years. It follows the lives of three Mexican-American cousins as they navigate their personal lives and struggles with the ongoing gentrification of their east Los Angeles community–Boyle Heights. As shown in the trailer, the family cannot keep up with the rising costs of their business’s rent as wealthier businesses and people move into the previously affordable community. Additionally, the trailer shows the family’s intergenerational battles– including the grandfather’s dream to continue his business and the mother’s concerns over her daughter being an artist. 

discussion

What kinds of people do you see in the trailer? What do we learn about their dreams and challenges? How are these dreams and challenges tied to the character’s identities?

What kind of story is the show telling about gentrification? Specifically, what does the show’s title reveal about the intersection of race, ethnicity, and class? 

What do you think is the significance of making a show about different generations within one family? How do you believe the characters will try to navigate the complexities of their relationships with their parents or grandparents? 

Have you ever seen any of the issues presented here in real life? If so, where? If not, what people or communities do you think might be able to relate to the content of the trailer?