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 11 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.
’12 Years a Slave’ (2013)
Rating: R
Genre: Historical Drama, Period Drama, Biography
Cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Kenneth Williams, Brad Pitt
Director: Steve McQueen
One of the most critically acclaimed biopics of all time, 12 Years a Slave is a gripping film 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.
‘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.
’42’ (2013)
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Biopic, Historical Drama
Cast: Chadwick Boseman, T.R. Knight
Director: Brian Helgeland
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 and the impact he made on the sport and society as a whole.
‘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.
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.
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