Movies like “Dreamgirls” and “The Wiz” are considered staples in the Black community. But they have one very important thing in common: they were not made by Black filmmakers. As we come out of yet another “Here is your little performative breadcrumb instead of actual justice”-based Black History Month, it seems wrong to consume art centering Black actors or Black stories that are not made by Black creators.
So, here’s a list of 10 films made by Black directors, including some you may have seen before. Because Black History Month is every month.
1. “The Photograph” directed by Stella Meghie (genre: Romantic Drama)
This film follows the lead character Mae as she embarks on an unexpected journey of romance following the death of her estranged mother. “The Photograph” is recent and captivating. With a female director at the forefront, this pick brings a much-needed piece of romance to the list. Where to watch: HBO Max
2. “Waiting to Exhale” directed by Forest Whitaker (genre: Romance)
“Waiting to Exhale” is based on Terry McMillian’s novel, which stars four friends in their journey of career, family and, of course, love — and all the trials and tribulations that come with it. With an iconic list of powerhouses that star in it, work like this demanded to be included on the list. Angela Bassett, Whitney Houston, Lela Rochon and Loretta Devine, all in one place. UNRIVALED. Where to watch: HBO Max
3. “Roll Bounce” directed by Malcolm D. Lee (genre: Comedy Drama)
Malcolm D. Lee’s film follows a teen boy who uses roller skating to deal with the loss of his mother. However, when his normal rink closes down, he and his friends are forced to go to the more upscale rink. Determined to prove they belong, the crew enters themselves in a skating contest, taking on the reigning champions. “Roll Bounce” is fun and funny. It’s the old school “Bring It On” and it features Black boy joy – making it the perfect addition to this list. Where to watch: Amazon Prime
4. “Sylvie’s Love” directed by Eugene Ashe (genre: Romantic Drama)
“Sylvie’s Love” stars a young woman in a 1950’s whirlwind summer romance with a saxophonist that comes to an end. Years later, they reconnect and find that, despite all the time that has passed, their feelings for each other have remained. Talk about a period drama. This classic tale has a combination of things that can be hard to find focusing on Black directors: Period and romance. And it does it so well. Where to watch: Amazon Prime
5. “The Watermelon Woman” directed by Cheryl Dunye (genre: Romantic Comedy-Drama)
“The Watermelon Woman” shows the story of a Black filmmaker in her journey to research and uncover the truth of a Black actress who played a lot of “mammy” style characters and is referred to as The Watermelon Woman. Cheryl Dunye’s piece found its way onto the list as an example of work from a Black female queer director. They exist and they matter. Where to watch: Amazon Prime
6. “Barbershop” directed by Tim Story (genre: Comedy Drama)
This movie goes through life in a barbershop on the south side of Chicago for a man struggling to keep up a business left to him by his father. This comedy is one of few iconic staples in the Black community that is directed by a Black director. Where to watch: Amazon Prime
7. “Us” directed by Jordan Peele (genre: Horror)
“Us” follows a family’s dream vacation as it turns into a nightmare of survival due to the appearance of doppelgangers that are out to get them. Jordan Peele is someone who has a mastery over the horror genre and he is one of the most notable Black directors making headway in the industry. Where to watch: Amazon Prime
8. “Black Panther” directed by Ryan Coogler (genre: Superhero/Action-Adventure)
This superhero film follows T’Challa after his father’s death as he grapples with his new role as king and as The Black Panther while dealing with his grief and an overarching theme of vengeance. “Black Panther” was a superhero film like no other. It gave Black people a chance to see themselves on screen in a light that hasn’t been explored in mainstream media and pop culture. Ryan Coogler made this possible. Where to watch: Disney+
9. “Farewell Amor” directed by Ekwa Msangi (genre: Drama)
Ekwa Msangi’s 2020 drama follows an Angolan woman and daughter as they reunite with their husband and father after 17 years apart. The trio uses dance as a way to reconnect and bridge the gap. A narrative about an immigrant family directed by a Black female director, with a launch at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, this film has earned its place on this list. Where to watch: Hulu
10. “A Wrinkle in Time” directed by Ava DuVernay (genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Family)
“A Wrinkle in Time” is a family-friendly fantasy adventure film based on the novel by Madeleine L’Engle that follows the adventures of Meg Murry and her little brother as they journey to find their father who has been missing for five years. Casual fun is the phrase that comes to mind when thinking about why this film made the list. When looking at films by Black directors it was hard to find ones specifically directed towards children. This is important because children are the future and with the influence that media has on our society, consumption matters. Where to watch: Disney+