February 19, 2025
By Selma Ferdjioui
February is right around the corner, which means Black History Month is about to begin! It may be the shortest month of the year, but it’s also one of the coldest. And what better way to spend a winter day than watching a great movie? Countless films from around the world highlight the Black experience and the rich history of the Black community. That’s why I’ve curated a list of my ten favorite films directed by Black filmmakers or featuring Black lead actors.
My Top 10 Black-Led Films
Dreamgirls (2006)
A dazzling musical drama follows The Dreams, a 1960s girl group, as they rise to fame while navigating personal betrayals and the cost of success. Inspired by the real-life story of The Supremes.
Space Jam (1996)
In this live action/animated sports comedy, NBA superstar Michael Jordan teams up with Bugs Bunny and the Looney Tunes to defeat the Monstars, who have stolen the basketball skills of top players.
Black Panther (2018)
Following his father’s death, T’Challa becomes the king of Wakanda, a technologically advanced yet secretive African nation. As he struggles with leadership, he must also face Killmonger, a formidable challenger who seeks to use Wakanda’s resources to empower oppressed people worldwide.
Soul (2020)
Joe Gardner, a jazz-loving middle school teacher, has a near-death experience that sends him to the afterlife. There, he must mentor a lost soul named 22, helping her discover her purpose.
The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Tiana, a hardworking young woman in 1920s New Orleans, dreams of opening her restaurant. But after an unexpected spell transforms her into a frog, she embarks on a magical adventure with a prince to break the curse.
The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Based on a true story, this inspiring drama follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while caring for his young son. Despite immense hardships, he fights to secure a better future for them both.
Coming to America (1988)
Tired of his privileged royal life, Prince Akeem of Zamunda travels to New York in search of a woman who will love him for who he is, not his wealth or title. Alongside his loyal friend Semmi, he experiences cultural clashes and hilarious misadventures while keeping his royal identity a secret.
Poetic Justice (1993)
Justice, a grieving young poet, embarks on a road trip from L.A. to Oakland with a postal worker named Lucky. As they confront personal struggles and past trauma, they slowly form a deep connection.
Girls Trip (2017)
Four lifelong friends, known the “Flossy Posse,” reunite for a wild adventure at New Orleans’ Essence Festival. Hilarity ensues, along with emotional breakthroughs and rekindled friendships.
In the Heat of the Night (1967)
This gripping drama follows African American detective Virgil Tibbs as he’s reluctantly enlisted to help solve a murder in a small Mississippi town. While clashing with the prejudiced local police chief, Tibbs uses his intelligence and determination to uncover the truth amidst racial tension.
Looking Beyond the Screen
From comedies to dramas, animations to superhero films, most of the movies on this list focus on fun, lighthearted storytelling. Of course, many films tackle heavier, more complex themes but I’ll save those for another list.
Black culture is vast and deeply layered, and while these films may not cover its full depth, they still provide glimpses into different aspects of Black life. If you want to explore further, I highly recommend visiting a library, reading books, watching documentaries, researching archives, and visiting museums.
That said, you can still learn a thing or two about Black culture while enjoying a great film. So, grab a blanket, some popcorn, and a few friends, and enjoy!
Selma Ferdjioui
Writer
Expected to receive her journalism degree (BA) in December of 2024, Selma has developed a skill in writing poignant stories on a diverse range of topics. She later plans to continue her education by getting a master's degree.
Her love for writing and telling stories began when she was young. Selma would write essays discussing her opinions on different topics and would then share it with her friends and family. This made her develop a real passion for writing. As a journalist, Selma is mainly interested in writing about the multiple conflicts happening around the world, diversity and inclusion, immigration, mental health, women's rights, the development of the African continent and its history, as well as lighter topics, such as reviewing films and TV shows.
For her, Sayaspora is a way to share with the world stories about African women and she hopes that her work could make people see her beloved continent in a different light.
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