Black History Month: Recommended Films to Watch.

Black History Month, which takes place annually in February, is a time to acknowledge the accomplishments of African Americans throughout the nation's history despite facing immense challenges. This observance encourages reflection, tribute, and celebration of the generations of Black individuals who have made significant contributions to the country. Films have been featuring Black historical figures and important periods in Black history for many years, and fictional stories have also explored and depicted the Black experience in America.

In honor of Black History Month, here are some films worth watching that showcase the achievements of African Americans and important periods in Black history.

Do the Right Thing
For many years, Spike Lee has been one of the filmmakers recognized for producing significant films that portray race relations in America. Lee's monumental drama, Do the Right Thing, which was released in 1989, captures racial tensions expertly on a scorching summer day in a Brooklyn neighborhood. The film is widely considered one of the best of the 1980s and received two Academy Award nominations, including one for Lee's screenplay.

12 Years A Slave
12 Years a Slave, an autobiographical drama by Steve McQueen, depicts the life of Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. The film, which received nine Academy Award nominations, won three Oscars, including Best Picture.

Fruitvale Station
Fruitvale Station, a biographical drama directed by Ryan Coogler in 2013, portrays a true story of contemporary police brutality and racial discrimination. Coogler's directorial debut is a powerful film that stars Michael B. Jordan and Octavia Spencer and recounts the story of Oscar Grant III, a 22-year-old resident of the Bay Area who encounters family, friends, and foes on the final day of 2008.

Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures, a drama released in 2016, chronicles the experiences of numerous African American female mathematicians who played an essential role in NASA during the initial years of the U.S. space program, contributing significantly to sending astronauts to the moon. The film, featuring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe, and Kevin Costner, is a must-watch.

Judas And The Black Messiah
Judas and the Black Messiah, a biographical drama directed by Shaka King in 2021, portrays the story of Fred Hampton, an activist and Black Panther leader who established Chicago's first "Rainbow Coalition," a multicultural anti-racist movement. The cast includes Daniel Kaluuya, LaKeith Stanfield, and Jesse Plemons. The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won two Oscars, one for Best Supporting Actor for Kaluuya's portrayal and another for Best Original Song, "Fight for You," performed by H.E.R., D'Mile, and Tiara Thomas.


As we celebrate Black History Month and pay tribute to the contributions of African Americans to our nation's history, it is essential to remember that Black history is not limited to a single month. It is a year-round celebration and recognition of the many significant accomplishments and experiences of African Americans in shaping our society, culture, and politics. It is only by embracing diversity, celebrating our differences, and sharing our stories that we can move forward towards a more equitable and just society.

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