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.
The Marva Collins Story (1981 film)
Subscribe or Buy/Rent:
Free:
Based on the true story of Marva Collins, a teacher dissatisfied with the Chicago Public Schools system who opened her own school to give children the education they deserve.
Starring: Cicely Tyson & Morgan Freeman
Akeelah and the Bee (2006 film)
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Free:
An 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles overcomes obstacles to compete in the National Spelling Bee.
Starring: Keke Palmer, Laurence Fishburne, & Angela Bassett
Da 5 Bloods (2020 film)
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Free:
Four Vietnam war veterans return to the country in search for the remains of their fallen squad leader and the gold fortune they buried.
Starring: Delroy Lindo, Jonathan Majors, Clarke Peters, Norm Lewis, & Chadwick Boseman
Free of Eden (1998 film)
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Free:
A teenager approaches her former teacher-turned-businessman, hoping he can tutor her in an effort to get a good education so she can escape from the poor housing projects.
Starring: Sydney Tamiia Poitier, Sidney Poitier, Saundra McClain, & Phylicia Rashad
