The following are my picks for films with Black leads to watch this Black History Month! Ranging from comedies to musicals, dramas, and more, these films are available to stream, or to watch at various events this month!
The Colour Purple (2023) is the second movie outlining the 1985 novel by Alice Walker. The main character, Celie Harris, navigates through hardships in the early 1900s in Georgia. This story tells the tale of sisterhood and follows Celie’s struggles with giving up her children, an arranged marriage with an abusive husband, and separation from her beloved sister. The film encompasses many emotions and has an amazing soundtrack. This movie will be showing on February 27 in the Library at 6:30 pm! Beyoncé’s rating: 9.5/10
Brother (2022) gives the inside story of two sons of Caribbean immigrants. Francis and Michael live in Scarborough, Ontario in the early 1990s. The film switches between their childhood and adulthood to showcase their challenges growing up. Brotherhood and the bonding over music are important themes as they deal with police brutality and take care of their mother. Brother is available on Crave. Beyoncé’s rating: 8.5/10
You People (2023) is a more lighthearted film. This rom-com focuses on the interracial relationship between Amira and Ezra, an unlikely couple, featuring actors Jonah Hill (Ezra) and Eddie Murphy (Akbar, Amira’s father). Their family backgrounds are polar opposites, leading many people to question their relationship. You People is available on Netflix. Beyoncé’s rating: 6.5/10
The Hate U Give (2018) is a popular film based on the book by Angie Thomas. The film follows Starr Carter, a teen who watched two of her close friends lose their lives to police brutality. Starr has the experience of living in both a predominantly black neighborhood that is high in crime and a wealthier neighborhood where she goes to private school. Her double life highlights the systemic racism in her community. The Hate U Give is available on Disney +. Beyoncé’s rating: 9/10
Air (2023) is a biography of the life of Michael Jordan and how the infamous Jordan brand was created with Nike. Nike’s partnership with Michael Jordan began in his rookie season with the NBA and as a highly recognized college athlete, many other brands were offering him major deals. Air is available for streaming on Prime. Beyoncé’s rating: 8.5/10
White Men Can’t Jump (2022) is another remake, this time of a 1992 film. This new version features Sinqua Walls and Jack Harlow. The two basketball players come from two different places but both find themselves in a time of need. The film is a comedy that can be found on Hulu or Disney+ Beyoncé’s rating: 7.5/10
Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody (2022) is the second biography-based film on this list. Whitney Houston’s rise to fame in the 1980s is nothing short of greatness. Actress Naomi Ackie plays Whitney Houston and beautifully captivates her determination and grace. This film is available for streaming on Crave. Beyoncé’s rating: 8/10
Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse (2023) is the second film in the animated Spiderverse series. The main character Miles Morales returns to the multiverse after spending some time protecting his own universe. Miles and Gwen reunite to combat a new villain. This film has an amazing soundtrack with popular artists and producers. Across the Spiderverse is available to stream on Crave. Beyoncé’s rating: 10/10
The Help (2011) is a classic film based on the book by Kathryn Stockett. The plot is set in Mississippi in the 1960s. Eugenia Skeeter (played by Emma Stone) begins interviewing Black women who have spent their lives working for White families. This film outlines the racism and misogyny during the 60’s. Other notable actresses include Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer. The Help is available to stream on Disney +. Beyoncé’s rating: 10/10
Article submitted by Beyoncé Gibbons
