Black History is American History, and it’s something we should celebrate and remember every day of the year. February, however, gives us a special chance to think about the people and events that led us to where we are today.
There are many ways to commemorate Black History Month, including by watching movies that aptly reflect the struggles, accomplishments and perseverance of Black Americans throughout history. This post lists 22 movies everyone should see, ranging from docudramas on the Civil Rights movement and racial inequality to historical biopics about African Americans and more.
You can watch these movies and so much more, all on DIRECTV!
To start commemorating Black History Month, add these 11 films to your February watch list!
‘Selma’ (2014)
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Historical Drama, Period Drama
Cast: David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo, Oprah Winfrey
Director: Ava DuVernay
Selma is a powerful historical drama that chronicles the pivotal events of the civil rights movement in 1965. Focusing on the Black resistance led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the film depicts the campaign and subsequent march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, highlighting the struggle for equal voting rights and one of the monumental achievements in the Civil Rights movement.
‘Harriet’ (2019)
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Historical Drama, Period Drama, Biography
Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monae, Leslie Odom Jr.
Director: Kasi Lemmons
Harriet is a captivating period drama based on the life of iconic freedom fighter Harriet Tubman. The film beautifully Tubman’s extraordinary journey from slavery to becoming one of America’s greatest heroes.
With a powerful performance by Wicked’s Cynthia Erivo, Harriet received critical acclaim and garnered two Academy Award nominations, solidifying its place as a must-watch, both during Black History Month and every other month of the year.
‘Till’ (2022)
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Historical Drama, Period Drama, Biography
Cast: Danielle Deadwyler, Jalyn Hall, Frankie Faison
Director: Chinonye Chukwu
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 to this day.
‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021)
Rating: R
Genre: Historical Drama, Period Drama, Biography
Cast: LaKeith Stanfield, Daniel Kaluuya, Dominique Fishback
Director: Shaka King
Judas and the Black Messiah unpacks the life and death of Fred Hampton, one of the most influential and charismatic leaders 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.
‘Ali’ (2001)
Rating: R
Genre: Biopic, Sports Drama
Cast: Will Smith, Jamie Foxx, Jon Voight
Director: Michael Mann
This 2001 sports biopic tells the incredible story of the GOAT of professional boxing himself, Muhammad Ali, one of the most influential and history-making athletes of the 20th century. Taking place between 1964 and 1974, the film gives audiences a glimpse into the man behind the legend — and the trials, controversies and achievements that came along with him.
‘THE COLOR PURPLE’ (2023)
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Musical, Historical Drama
Cast: Fantasia Barrino, Taraj P. Henson, Danielle Brooks
Director: Blitz Bazawule
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 from Barrino, Henson, Brooks and Domingo and heartfelt songs give this old classic a new twist.
‘Marshall’ (2017)
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Historical Drama, Crime Drama, Biography
Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Sterling K. Brown, Kate Hudson
Director: Reginald Hudlin
Marshall is the 2017 biopic drama that unpacks the historical, career defining court case of the first African American Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall. After a Black chauffer is accused of assault, Marshall must work alongside a white, inexperienced insurance lawyer to defend their client, all while grappling with the extreme racism and bigotry outside and within the courtroom.
‘All Eyez on Me’ (2017)
Rating: R
Genre: Biopic, Music, Drama
Cast: Demetrius Shipp Jr., Danai Gurira, Kat Graham
Director: Benny Boom
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. All Eyez on Me (2017) brings his journey to life, exploring his rise to fame, his struggles and the legacy he left behind.
‘Moonlight’ (2016)
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama, Coming of Age
Cast: Mahershala Ali, Naomie Harris, Trevante Rhodes
Director: Barry Jenkins
While not based on a historical event or figure, Moonlight is a poignant and introspective film that explores the complexities and intersectionality of Black culture, sexuality and identity in America, making it well worth watching during Black History Month or any other time.
‘Black Panther (2018)’
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Cast: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira
Director: Ryan Coogler
Wakanda forever! This groundbreaking Marvel film follows T’Challa as he returns home to the technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to take his rightful place as king. But when a powerful enemy emerges, T’Challa must rally his allies and unleash the full power of the Black Panther to secure his people’s future.
‘Glory Road (2006)’
Rating: PG
Genre: Drama, Sports
Cast: Josh Lucas, Derek Luke, Jon Voight
Director: James Gartner
Based on a true story, this inspiring sports drama follows Don Haskins, the coach of Texas Western, as he leads the first all-Black starting lineup in NCAA history to victory in the 1966 championship. A powerful tale of perseverance and change, Glory Road is a must-watch for sports and history fans alike.
‘Hidden Figures (2016)’
Rating: PG
Genre: Drama, Biography, History
Cast: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe, Kevin Costner
Director: Theodore Melfi
This uplifting drama spotlights the brilliant Black women of NASA—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—who played crucial roles in launching John Glenn into orbit. Their contributions shattered racial and gender barriers, proving that intelligence and determination know no bounds.
‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)’
Rating: PG
Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure
Cast: Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld, Mahershala Ali
Director: Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman, Bob Persichetti
Miles Morales swings into action in this animated masterpiece that redefines the Spider-Man legacy. With stunning visuals, heart-pounding action, and a multiverse of Spideys, this film is a fresh, exhilarating take on the web-slinger we all know and love.
‘Brown Sugar (2002)’
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Romance, Drama, Comedy
Cast: Taye Diggs, Sanaa Lathan, Mos Def, Queen Latifah
Director: Rick Famuyiwa
Brown Sugar is a love letter to hip-hop and a soulful story of relationships, ambition, and destiny.
‘House Party (1990)’
Rating: R
Genre: Comedy, Music
Cast: Christopher Reid, Christopher Martin, Robin Harris, Tisha Campbell
Director: Reginald Hudlin
A wild and hilarious night unfolds when Kid sneaks out to attend Play’s legendary house party. Packed with iconic dance-offs, quotable lines, and an unbeatable 90s vibe, House Party is a nostalgic favorite.
‘Love Jones (1997)’
Rating: R
Genre: Romance, Drama
Cast: Larenz Tate, Nia Long, Isaiah Washington, Lisa Nicole Carson
Director: Theodore Witcher
A poetic and passionate love story unfolds between a photographer and a poet in Chicago’s vibrant arts scene. As they navigate love, heartbreak, and creative expression, Love Jones remains a timeless romantic classic.
‘Malcolm X (1992)’
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Biography, Drama, History
Cast: Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Albert Hall
Director: Spike Lee
A powerful and deeply moving portrait of Malcolm X’s journey from troubled youth to influential civil rights leader, this film is a masterpiece of storytelling and historical significance.
‘Nope (2022)’
Rating: R
Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Keke Palmer, Steven Yeun, Brandon Perea
Director: Jordan Peele
From the mind of Jordan Peele, Nope is a mind-bending horror-thriller that explores the unknown. When siblings running a California horse ranch witness a mysterious, otherworldly phenomenon, they embark on a terrifying journey to uncover the truth. Combining social commentary with edge-of-your-seat suspense, Nope is a must-watch for horror and sci-fi fans alike.
‘Poetic Justice (1993)’
Rating: R
Genre: Drama, Romance
Cast: Janet Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Regina King, Joe Torry
Director: John Singleton
Featuring heartfelt poetry and a moving road trip, Poetic Justice follows Justice, a young woman coping with loss through writing, as she embarks on an unexpected journey with a postal worker, Lucky. With iconic performances from Janet Jackson and Tupac Shakur, this film is a powerful tale of love, healing, and self-discovery.
‘The Best Man Holiday (2013)’
Rating: R
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Cast: Morris Chestnut, Taye Diggs, Regina Hall, Sanaa Lathan, Nia Long
Director: Malcolm D. Lee
Reuniting after 15 years, a group of college friends gathers for the holidays, rekindling old romances, rivalries, and lifelong bonds. The Best Man Holiday delivers heartfelt laughs, emotional depth, and plenty of surprises, making it a must-watch seasonal classic.
‘The Family That Preys (2008)’
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Drama
Cast: Alfre Woodard, Kathy Bates, Sanaa Lathan, Rockmond Dunbar, Tyler Perry
Director: Tyler Perry
Weaving together the lives of two families from different social backgrounds, The Family That Preys tells a gripping story of ambition, betrayal, and redemption. With standout performances and an emotional narrative, this Tyler Perry drama delivers powerful life lessons and unforgettable moments.
‘The Woman King (2022)’
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Action, Drama, Historical
Cast: Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch, John Boyega, Sheila Atim
Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood
Inspired by true events, The Woman King follows the powerful all-female warrior unit of the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s. Led by the fearless General Nanisca, the warriors fight to protect their kingdom from invaders, offering breathtaking action and emotional depth in this gripping historical epic.
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.
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.
DIRECTV Insider brings you our views on what’s happening in streaming, t.v., movies and sports. Companies and persons mentioned are not necessarily associated with and do not necessarily endorse DIRECTV. We will disclose sponsored content on our site when we show it to you, and some of the links on the site may be ads or affiliate links which means DIRECTV may earn compensation from your purchases.
