This Black History Month, we’re honoring black pride in all forms. Movies, documentaries, and television shows that reflect on America’s history of racism, celebrate the achievements of black social activists, and explore the experiences of everyday African Americans are extremely important today more than ever. If you’re in the mood to watch some compelling films about the black experience, below are some movies to check out this month – and every month.
Moonlight
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NJj12tJzqc
Moonlight is a beautifully told story about people who don’t usually have their story told. This film follows main character Chiron through three stages of life (childhood, adolescence and adulthood), and is centered around black masculinity and queerness in the public eye. The Oscar’s Best Picture winner includes aspects of loneliness, mass incarceration, drug issues, sexuality, racism, childhood troubles, and finding one’s way in the world.
Hidden Figures
“>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wfrDhgUMGI
Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe tell the story of black women who played a pivotal role in the early years of the U.S. space program at NASA. A true historical women power moment.
13th
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V66F3WU2CKk
For all my documentary buffs out there, this one is for you. Netflix’s 13th, titled after the thirteenth amendment, highlights and discusses issues stemming from slavery that continued after the Civil War in the form of criminal punishment. From mass incarceration, the broken criminal justice system in place today, to the war on drugs and inequality, director Ava DuVernay takes you through all the motions.
“What Happened, Miss Simone?”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moOQXZxriKY
This biographical documentary gives viewers a inside look at the legendary life of the brilliant Nina Simone. Her daughter, Lisa Simone, recounts stories of her mother bringing music with her everywhere she went, and being heavily involved in the civil rights movement.
Fences
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jj-ZYPVRQbc
Any film featuring Denzel Washington and Viola Davis should be at the top of everyone’s list. This adaptation of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play breaks down racial boundaries while telling a story of deferred dreams.