February is Black History Month and what better way to celebrate than to relax and watch Netflix? Black life is often expressed in tragedy. However, these films are full of happiness, love for humanity, and creative skill. Netflix has been a mainstream leader for showing Black films and shows before other streamer companies.
After conducting research, we listed some of the best Black history movies on Netflix for your BHM enjoyment! There are so many great films available as well as so many media companies that discuss top Black films in their February blogs. Many of the films listed below allow you to fully engage in the Black experience through laughs, tears, dreams, and inspiration for a few hours.
‘Fruitvale Station’ (2013)
Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Octavia Spencer, Melonie Diaz, Chad Michael Murray
Director: Ryan Coogler
Rating: TV-MA
The killing of Oscar Grant by BART officer Johannes Mehserle on New Years Day in 2009 and the trial in 2010 is a small flame that contributes to the growing movement of Black Lives Matter. This directorial debut for Coogler, an Oakland native, depicts the last day of Grant’s life.
‘The Black Godfather’ 2019
Director: Reginald Hudlin
Rating: TV-MA
Black America has an impact on every aspect of American culture and entertainment, regardless of genre. Clarence Avant was a powerful broker who made his mark as a powerful broker. Reginald Hudlin, explores the music executive that embodied more than a man who served as a mentor to many artists over decades sitting alongside civil rights leader to promote social change. The Black Godfather was a name he obtained from a documentary film.
‘Quincy’ (2018)
Director: Rashida Jones
Rating: TV-MA
In the 2018 documentary, the famed music producer was known for some of the wildest stories in the industry. For two hours, viewers get an honest look at events and people who made Jones an influential figure for many.
‘Homecoming: A Film By Beyonce’ (2019)
Director: Beyonce Knowles-Carter, Ed Burke
Rating: TV-MA
You know her as the world-class entertainer today, a confident force who makes a powerful stance in the media and music industry. Homecoming promotes Black spirit at one of the whitest events: Coachella. The documentary looks at her 2018 performance at Coachella. The performance looks at brilliant artists who worked in lockstep with the leader of BeyHive.
‘What Happened, Miss Simone?’ (2015)
Director: Liz Garbus
Rating: Not Rated
As a singer and an activist, Nina Simone’s voice is an incomparable tool in speaking truth to her power. Netflix opens up about who Nina is and her lasting impact. Lisa Simone Kelly, executive producer, shows never released footage of the iconic singer alongside her daughter.
‘Moonlight’ (2016)
Cast: Trevante Rhodes, André Holland, Naomie Harris, Jharell Jerome, Mahershala Ali
Director: Barry Jenkins
Rating: TV-MA
Moonlight examines three life stages of Chiron as a young boy, a teenager, and as an adult. Based on the semi-autobiographical play from Tarell Alvin McCraney, Moonlight looks into Chiron’s life as he struggles with an abusive mother and his sexuality. Not only is Moonlight the first film to win an Oscar for Best Picture with an entire Black cast, but also the first LGBTQ-themed film to win. Ali has made history of becoming the first Muslim to take home an Oscar for Supporting Actor.
