Is Snowfall Based on a True Story? – Hey there, folks! If you’ve been binge-watching the captivating crime drama series “Snowfall,” chances are you’ve wondered how much of it is grounded in reality. You’re in the right place because we’re about to delve into the gritty world of “Snowfall” and separate fact from fiction.
In this article, we’ll uncover the truth behind the series, explore the intricate characters, and understand if real-life events inspire the storyline or if it’s purely a work of fiction. So, grab your popcorn and let’s embark on this thrilling journey into the heart of “Snowfall.”
What is ‘Snowfall’ About?
Before jumping into the nitty-gritty, let’s learn what “Snowfall” is all about. This electrifying crime drama, created by John Singleton, Eric Amadio, and Dave Andron, takes us back to the mean streets of 1980s Los Angeles. It’s a time when the crack cocaine epidemic first took hold of the city, leaving an indelible mark on its residents.
At its core, “Snowfall” weaves a tale of interconnected lives. The central character is Franklin Saint, portrayed brilliantly by Damson Idris. Franklin’s journey from a street-savvy teenager to a ruthless drug lord is both gripping and disturbing, shedding light on the harsh realities of the drug trade and the choices one makes when driven by desperation.
But it’s not just Franklin’s story; the show offers a multi-faceted perspective by following other characters’ lives, too. From Mexican luchador Gustavo “El Oso” Zapata to CIA operative Teddy McDonald and a Mexican crime boss’s niece, Lucia Villanueva, each character brings a unique angle to the narrative.
What makes “Snowfall” stand out is its innovative approach to storytelling. Instead of relying on a single protagonist, the series unfolds through the lives of these interconnected characters. This mirrors the complexity of the crack epidemic itself, highlighting how it affected people from various walks of life.
Beyond its storytelling, “Snowfall” earns accolades for its meticulous recreation of the 1980s era. From the fashion to the music and the historical events that shaped the period, the show immerses viewers in the time like a time machine. Now that we’ve got a sense of the show’s backdrop let’s dig deeper and explore whether “Snowfall” is based on a true story or not.
Is Snowfall Based on a True Story?
The burning question: is “Snowfall” based on a true story? Well, the short answer is no, “Snowfall” isn’t directly based on actual events. However, it’s essential to note that the show draws inspiration from real-life circumstances. It revolves around the emergence of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles during the early 1980s. The scrappy and conflicted Franklin Saint may be a work of fiction, but the epidemic he navigates isn’t.
In the 1980s, the crack cocaine wave hit American streets, particularly in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. This smokable form of cocaine was developed to counter the dropping cost of traditional cocaine, and it quickly gained popularity. Why? Because it was cheaper to produce, it could be sold in smaller quantities to a broader client base, bringing in more money for the drug dealers.
However, the impact of the crack wasn’t uniform. The epidemic disproportionately affected Black communities, and this was intertwined with economic factors. Due to racial segregation practices, Black families often resided in lower-income neighbourhoods, making them more susceptible to the drug dealers selling crack.
The crack epidemic also gave birth to its criminal ecosystem. As addiction rates surged, it became profitable for community members to enter the drug trade. This, in turn, led to a vicious cycle of more drug-related violence, arrests, and disproportionate effects on Black communities.
Some even believe that the CIA played a role in this epidemic. While it’s a contentious theory, later-retracted stories suggest that the U.S. government allowed Nicaraguan Contra rebels to sell cocaine in Los Angeles to fund their operations. In “Snowfall,” Agent McDonald (Carter Hudson) embodies this theory, hinting at government involvement in the crack epidemic.
So, while “Snowfall” is a work of fiction, it’s undoubtedly rooted in a time and context that’s not far from reality. Let’s move on to whether Franklin Saint, the central character, is a real figure.
Was Franklin Saint in Snowfall Real?
The short answer is that Franklin Saint, portrayed by Damson Idris, is a fictional character. However, much like the series itself, there are elements of reality woven into his story. As the late series creator John Singleton once revealed, Franklin is at least partially based on his own memories of growing up in Black neighbourhoods in Los Angeles.
Franklin and Singleton went to school in the San Fernando Valley, but their paths diverged significantly. While Franklin turned to the drug business, Singleton pursued a career in the arts, ultimately becoming a renowned filmmaker.
To create an authentic portrayal of the drug trade and its impact on communities, the creators of “Snowfall” brought in consultants deeply familiar with various aspects of the drug trade. This dedication to realism makes the show so compelling, even though the characters and specific events are fiction products.
While Franklin Saint may not be a real historical figure, his character is a product of extensive research and a desire to capture the essence of the era and the communities affected by the crack epidemic. This blend of fiction and reality adds depth to the character and the series as a whole.
Snowfall Ending Explained
Now, let’s discuss the ending of “Snowfall.” At the close of the fourth season, we witnessed Franklin Saint being shot and left for dead by an unknown assailant. This cliffhanger left viewers with burning questions about Franklin’s fate and the direction the show would take in future seasons.
The ending can be interpreted in a few ways. One possibility is that it represents a turning point for Franklin’s character. Throughout the series, we’ve seen him grapple with the consequences of his actions as he becomes further entangled in the drug trade. The shooting might be a wake-up call, forcing him to confront his choices’ impact and reconsider his priorities. It could also signify a shift in power dynamics, with Franklin’s enemies gaining the upper hand.
Another interpretation is that the ending reflects the cyclical nature of the drug trade. Characters in the series rise and fall within this world, with new players constantly entering the scene. The shooting of Franklin could be seen as a metaphor for the violence and instability inherent in the drug trade, where the cycle of violence continues indefinitely.
Regardless of the interpretation, it’s clear that the ending is a pivotal moment in the narrative. The creators of “Snowfall” have a long-term plan for the series, and this shooting is likely part of a larger story arc that will unfold in future seasons.
In conclusion, “Snowfall” is a masterful blend of fiction and reality, drawing inspiration from the crack cocaine epidemic of the 1980s while crafting compelling characters and storylines. While the central character, Franklin Saint, is a work of fiction, he is deeply rooted in the experiences and memories of the show’s creators, adding depth and authenticity to his character. The ending of the series leaves us with compelling questions, ensuring that the story remains as captivating as ever.
In this rollercoaster ride through the drug trade and its impact on communities, “Snowfall” serves as both entertainment and a thought-provoking reflection on the darker chapters of our recent history. So, as we eagerly await the next season, we’re left pondering the consequences of actions, the cyclical nature of the drug trade, and the complex web of characters that make “Snowfall” a series like no other.
Also Read: Snowfall Season 6 Episode 10 [Series Finale] Will Franklin Survive?
