Are you on the hunt for captivating movies to watch? As the lights dim and the popcorn pops, prepare to be whisked away into the world of cinema. With countless streaming options available, discovering unforgettable films that resonate can be a daunting task.
Cinema has always been a powerful medium for storytelling and cultural expression. Over the years, Black actors and actresses have delivered performances that not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire change. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming comedies, here’s a list of 10 exceptional films featuring Black talent, spanning various genres and eras.
1. Black Panther (2018)
Filming locations: Atlanta, Georgia; South Korea
Box office: $1.34 billion worldwide
Awards: 3 Oscars (Best Original Score, Best Costume Design, Best Production Design); nominated for 7 Oscars, including Best Picture.
Directed by Ryan Coogler, this film explores themes of identity and heritage while celebrating African culture.
2. 12 Years A Slave (2013)
Filming locations: New Orleans, Louisiana
Box office: $187.7 million worldwide
Awards: 3 Oscars (Best Picture, Best Supporting Actress for Lupita Nyong’o, Best Adapted Screenplay); nominated for 9 Oscars.
This harrowing tale is based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man kidnapped and sold into slavery.
3. Get Out (2017)
Filming locations: Fairhope, Alabama
Box office: $255.4 million worldwide
Awards: 1 Oscar (Best Original Screenplay for Jordan Peele); nominated for 4 Oscars, including Best Picture.
This social thriller tackles racial tensions through horror, with Daniel Kaluuya delivering a standout performance.
4. The Color Purple (1985)
Filming locations: North Carolina
Box office: $142 million worldwide
Awards: Nominated for 11 Oscars including Best Picture.
Directed by Steven Spielberg, this poignant story highlights the struggles of Black women in the early 20th century South.
5. Hidden Figures (2016)
Filming locations: Atlanta, Georgia
Box office: $236.2 million worldwide
Awards: Nominated for 3 Oscars, including Best Picture.
This inspiring film tells the true story of three Black women mathematicians at NASA.
6. Malcolm X (1992)
Filming locations: New York City
Box office: $73 million worldwide
Awards: Nominated for 2 Oscars (Best Actor for Denzel Washington).
This biographical epic chronicles the life of civil rights leader Malcolm X.
7. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Filming locations: San Francisco, California
Box office: $307.1 million worldwide
Awards: Nominated for 1 Oscar (Best Actor for Will Smith).
This heartwarming story follows Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who overcomes adversity.
8. If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)
Filming locations: New York City
Box office: $20.6 million worldwide
Awards: 1 Oscar (Best Supporting Actress for Regina King).
Directed by Barry Jenkins, this adaptation of James Baldwin’s novel is a beautiful love story set against racial injustice.
9. Loving (2016)
Filming locations: Richmond, Virginia
Box office: $12.9 million worldwide
Awards: Nominated for 1 Oscar (Best Actress for Ruth Negga).
This film tells the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, whose fight for interracial marriage led to a landmark Supreme Court decision.
10. Harriet (2019)
Filming locations: Richmond, Virginia
Box office: $43.3 million worldwide
Awards: Nominated for 2 Oscars (Best Actress for Cynthia Erivo).
This biographical film stars Cynthia Erivo as Harriet Tubman, the iconic freedom fighter.
So, whether you’re planning a solo movie night or a cozy gathering with friends, these selections are sure to entertain and inspire. Grab your popcorn and enjoy!
