By Sheyla Fairley
Every February, people honor the contributions and achievements of African Americans
throughout the ages as part of Black History Month. This February, I will share a collection of twenty-five movies that I have watched and enjoyed; each featuring African Americans in starring roles. I will share them in groups of four.
Some of the movies are biographical, others were inspired by real-life events, and then there are regular films featuring Black leads with well-known actors.
There’s a trailer for you to preview each movie. A link is provided to watch the movie online. Some are free, others may require a subscription or payment.
Pop some popcorn and pick a flick that suits your mood. I hope you enjoy this different twist in observing Black History.
Selma, Lord, Selma (1999 film)
Free:
Based on the true events of the Selma to Montgomery march on March 7, 1965, known as Bloody Sunday, through the eyes of 9-year-old Sheyann Webb.
Starring: Jurnee Smollett, Clifton Powell, Stephanie Zandra Peyton, & Ella Joyce
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (1997 film)
Subscribe:
Remake of the 1957 Rodgers and Hammerstein musical of the classic fairytale with a multiracial cast.
Starring: Brandy Norwood, Whoopi Goldberg, & Whitney Houston
The Harder They Fall (2021 film)
Subscribe:
Free:
When outlaw Nat Love discovers that his enemy Rufus Buck is being released from prison, he reunites his gang to seek revenge.
Starring: Jonathan Majors, Idris Elba, Zazie Beetz, & Regina King
Honeydripper (2007 film)
Subscribe or Buy/Rent:
Free:
In an effort to save his juke joint from being shut down, owner and pianist Tyrone “Pine Top” Purvis hires an electric guitarist to attract the masses.
Starring: Danny Glover, Charles S. Dutton, & Gary Clark, Jr.
