Five to Watch - Movies About African American History

Black Lives Matter. Something that is on topic now and probably always will be. It’s sad to say that racism is still something this world has to deal with. And you can complain about hearing about this topic, but what about the people that have to deal with it every day? And that’s why I decided to pick five movies that deal with this topic. I chose five overlooked or underrated film about African American history, that I think everyone should see.

Malcolm X
Okay, this might not be an underrated  or overlooked film, but I still know too many people that have never seen it. It's a biographical epic of the controversial and influential Black Nationalist leader, from his early life and career as a smalltime gangster, to his ministry as a member of the Nation of Islam. The movie is based on “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Alex Haley and directed by Spike Lee. It’s a well-balanced, and fairly nuanced tale about Malcolm X’s development, with an excellent performance from Denzel Washington in the titular role.

Loving
The story of Richard and Mildred Loving, a couple whose arrest for interracial marriage in 1960s Virginia began a legal battle that would end with the Supreme Court’s historic 1967 decision. Also based on true events. It’s a strong, subdued drama about the ridiculous law that kept white people from marrying black people.

Selma
It’s an impressive first film about the life of Martin Luther King. The film focuses on the monumental protest march from Selma to Montgomery in 1965, that forced president Lyndon B. Johnson to have equal rights for African American voters, for they were not allowed to vote. David Oyelowo stars as Martin Luther King and does this very well, subtle, embodying the man who changed so much in the world.

Fruitvale Station
Oscar Grant III starts the 31st of December in good spirits, but then gets involved in a subway riot. It’s a raw and realistic film, also based on a true story. Made for less then a million dollars and a very impressive debut by director Ryan Coogler.

Glory
During the U.S. Civil War, Robert Gould Shaw leads the first all-black volunteer company, fighting prejudice from both his own army and the Confederates. A strong war drama, with excellent performances by Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington.