Black history is American history, and while we should celebrate this all year round, the month of February gives us a unique opportunity to reflect on the historical events and inspiring leaders that led us to where we are today. In honor of Black History Month, this post will provide a number of movies everyone should see, ranging from documentaries on the civil rights movement and racial inequality to historical dramas and more.
Keep reading for a list of documentaries and movies to watch for Black History Month, and every month.
MOVIES AND DOCUMENTARIES FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2024
Find out where to watch these powerful films and documentaries below.
‘Selma’ (2014)
The 2014 film, Selma, is an extremely powerful historical drama that chronicles the pivotal events of the civil rights movement in 1965. Focusing on the Black resistance led by civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the film depicts the courageous march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, highlighting the struggle for equal voting rights and the triumphs of the civil rights movement.
Available to rent on DIRECTV Ch 125. Take advantage of the $2.99 Sale Feb. 13-27.
Watch Selma Full Movie on DIRECTV
‘Harriet’ (2019)
Harriet is a captivating historical drama based on the life of iconic freedom fighter Harriet Tubman. The inspiring film portrays Tubman’s extraordinary journey from slavery to becoming one of America’s greatest heroes.
With a powerful performance by Cynthia Erivo, Harriet received critical acclaim and garnered two Academy Award nominations, solidifying its place as a must-watch cinematic masterpiece both during Black History Month and every other month of the year.
Available to rent on DIRECTV Ch 125. Take advantage of the $2.99 Sale Feb. 1-29.
Watch Harriet Full Movie on DIRECTV
’12 Years a Slave’ (2013)
12 Years a Slave is a gripping biopic based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 19th century. This Oscar-winning film exposes the brutal realities of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit, highlighting the injustice and crimes of those in power in pre-Civil War America.
Available to rent for $3.99 on DIRECTV Ch 125.
Watch 12 Years a Slave Full Movie on DIRECTV
5. ‘Till’ (2022)
A deeply powerful and important movie for everyone to watch, the 2022 film, Till sheds light on a significant chapter of American history. Directed by the talented, Chinonye Chukwu, it tells the story of Emmett Till’s brutal murder and his mother’s fight for justice, serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle against racism that continues on today.
Available to rent on DIRECTV Ch 125. Take advantage of the $2.99 Sale Feb. 6-19.
Watch Till Full Movie on DIRECTV
’42’ (2013)
Another compelling Black history movie that chronicles the life of an influential figure in the fight for civil rights in America is 42. It depicts the story of Jackie Robinson, brilliantly portrayed by Chadwick Boseman, and explores Robinson’s groundbreaking journey as the first African American to play in Major League Baseball, highlighting his resilience and the impact he made on the sport and society as a whole.
Available to rent for $3.99 on DIRECTV Ch 125.
Watch 42 Full Movie on DIRECTV
‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021)
Judas and the Black Messiah is a film that delves into the life and death of Fred Hampton, a charismatic leader of the Black Panthers. The movie sheds light on the fight for Black lives and the FBI’s plea deal that led to Hampton’s tragic demise.
With its exceptional performances, it garnered critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations, including Best Motion Picture of 2021, which marked the first time an all-Black production team was nominated for the award.
Available to rent for $3.99 on DIRECTV Ch 125.
‘THE COLOR PURPLE’ (2023)
A musical remake of the classic novel and film, The Color Purple beautifully tells the heart-wrenching story of a young African American woman growing up in rural Georgia at the start of the 20th century. Through years of abuse, discrimination and trauma, Celie works to find her own independence and resilience. Amazing performances and heartfelt songs give this old classic a new twist.
Available to rent or buy on DIRECTV until Feb. 15. Available to Buy on DIRECTV after Feb. 16.
‘Marshall’
The biological drama tells the legal story of the first African American Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall (starring Chadwick Boseman), with the focus on one of his first cases, the State of Connecticut v. Joseph Spell.
Available to rent on DIRECTV Ch 125. Take advantage of the $2.99 Sale Feb. 1-29.
‘Ali’
Learn more of the story of “The Greatest,” boxer and activist, Muhammad Ali, who was one of the most significant athletes of a generation.
Available to rent on DIRECTV Ch 125. Take advantage of the $2.99 Sale Feb. 1-15.
‘All Eyez On Me’
As one of the most prolific and famed rappers of the ’90s, Tupac Shakur is well known, but there are parts of this poet, activist and actor’s story that are still to be told.
Available to rent on DIRECTV Ch 125. Take advantage of the $2.99 Sale Feb. 1-29.
Check out additional movies based on real lives: Exploring the African American experience on film.
POPULAR MOVIES BY BLACK DIRECTORS TO WATCH IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH & BEYOND
‘Black Panther’ (2018)
Directed by: Ryan Coogler
Black Panther is a groundbreaking film that celebrates Black culture and showcases the talents of actors like Angela Bassett, Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan and many others. This superhero epic not only captivates audiences with its thrilling storyline and stunning visuals, but also resonates as one of the great movies that embraces and empowers Black representation in mainstream cinema.
Available to rent for $3.99 on DIRECTV Ch 125.
‘Moonlight’ (2016)
Directed by: Barry Jenkins
Moonlight is a poignant and introspective film that explores the complexities and intersectionality of Black culture, sexuality and identity in America. Through its beautifully crafted narrative and three different timeframes, it delves into the struggles and triumphs of a young African American man as he navigates his journey of self-discovery and acceptance in a society that has only marginalized and misunderstood him.
Available to rent for $3.99 on DIRECTV Ch 125.
Watch Moonlight Full Movie on DIRECTV
WATCH THESE MOVIES & MORE ON DIRECTV
With thousands of available movies to watch on DIRECTV, you’ll never run out of content to watch. Including cooking and home shows like The Great Soul Food Cook-Off, Homegrown as well as a selection of great black TV shows and more.
Learn more about DIRECTV today.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Black History Month?
Black History Month is celebrated every February in the United States.
What are some movies I should watch to learn about Black history?
Movies such as 'Selma,' '13th,' 'Judas and the Black Messiah' and 'Harriet' are just a few of the many movies and documentaries that explore the life and history of Black Americans.
Who are some of the best Black directors of the 21st century?
Some of the top Black directors of the 21st century include Spike Lee, John Singleton, Tyler Perry, Steve McQueen, Barry Jenkins, Ava DuVernay, Victoria Mahoney and more.
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