Black history is American history. While February offers a dedicated moment of reflection during Black History Month, the stories, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans deserve recognition every day of the year.
Film and television have become powerful tools for preserving these stories, blending education with compelling storytelling. From civil rights leaders and cultural pioneers to artists, athletes, and unsung heroes, these movies and series bring pivotal moments in history to life while centering the people who shaped them.
Whether you’re revisiting a classic or discovering something new, these titles — all inspired by true stories — are worth watching any time of year, not just in February.
Barry
This coming-of-age drama offers a quiet, intimate look at a formative chapter in the life of a young Barack Obama. Set in New York City in 1981, the film follows Obama as he navigates identity, race, and belonging during his junior year at Columbia University. Devon Terrell delivers a thoughtful performance that captures the uncertainty and self-discovery of a future leader finding his voice.
Colin in Black & White
Co-created by Colin Kaepernick, this limited series chronicles his teenage years long before he became a household name. Narrated by Kaepernick himself, the show explores race, adoption, ambition, and self-awareness through the lens of a gifted young athlete learning how to move through the world.
Da 5 Bloods
Directed by Spike Lee, this powerful drama follows four Black Vietnam War veterans who return to the country decades later in search of closure, truth, and the remains of their fallen leader. While fictionalized, the story draws heavily from real experiences of Black soldiers whose contributions and sacrifices were often overlooked.
Dolemite Is My Name
This biopic celebrates Rudy Ray Moore, a comedian and filmmaker who bet on himself when no one else would. Eddie Murphy brings Moore’s charisma and hustle to life in a story about creative independence, risk-taking, and the birth of a cultural movement that reshaped Black entertainment.
Glory
A landmark Civil War film, Glory tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, one of the first Black units in the Union Army. Through courage, sacrifice, and resilience, the film honors soldiers whose bravery helped redefine the fight for freedom.
Harriet
Cynthia Erivo delivers a powerful performance as Harriet Tubman, tracing her escape from slavery and her dangerous missions on the Underground Railroad. The film highlights Tubman’s strength, faith, and unwavering commitment to liberation.
Race
This biopic follows Olympic legend Jesse Owens as he competes in the 1936 Berlin Games against the backdrop of global tension and racial injustice. His record-breaking victories became a defining moment in sports and world history.
Respect
Jennifer Hudson steps into the role of Aretha Franklin in this musical biopic that chronicles the early years of the Queen of Soul. The film explores her rise, her resilience, and the creation of one of the most influential voices in music history.
Roxanne Roxanne
This film spotlights hip-hop pioneer Roxanne Shanté, who became a battle rap legend as a teenager. It captures her talent, determination, and the challenges of navigating the music industry at a young age.
Rustin
Colman Domingo portrays Bayard Rustin, the civil rights strategist behind the 1963 March on Washington. The film sheds light on Rustin’s pivotal role in the movement and the complexities of being a gay Black leader during a time of deep social resistance.
Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker
This series tells the story of Madam C.J. Walker, America’s first self-made female millionaire. From humble beginnings, she built a beauty empire that empowered Black women and reshaped entrepreneurship in the early 20th century.
Shirley
Regina King stars as Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress and the first Black candidate to seek a major party’s presidential nomination. The film captures her groundbreaking campaign and fearless leadership.
The Six Triple Eight
This World War II drama highlights the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black women’s unit deployed overseas. Their mission — delivering millions of pieces of undelivered mail — became a testament to discipline, perseverance, and excellence under pressure.
When They See Us
Ava DuVernay’s critically acclaimed series recounts the wrongful conviction of the Central Park Five and the lasting impact on their lives. It remains one of the most powerful portrayals of injustice, resilience, and truth in modern television.
These films and series remind us that Black history is not confined to a single month. It lives in stories of courage, creativity, leadership, and perseverance — stories that continue to shape American culture today.
