Ten Black Films Worth Watching
In celebration of Black History Month, we present these African-American classics.
by Christine & Michael Swanson | posted 2/08/2005
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Editor's note: We asked Christine and Michael Swanson, African-American filmmakers and owners of Faith Filmworks, Inc., to compile this list.
1. A Raisin in the Sun (1961)
directed by Daniel Petrie
Not Rated
From the pen of playwright Lorraine Hansberry comes this great American classic-the quintessential black urban drama long before the likes of Boyz 'n the Hood. This film boldly examines the plight of the black working class family in a moving and realistic fashion, with strong and memorable performances from an extraordinary cast. Black dramas no longer get made on any level, much less a level as poignant and significant as this film. Sidney Poitier is Walter Lee Younger, a young man struggling with his station in life. Sharing a tiny apartment with his wife, son, sister and mother, he seems like an imprisoned man. Until, that is, the family gets an unexpected financial windfall. Also stars stage and screen legend Ruby Dee.
2. Once Upon A Time When We Were Colored (1995)
directed by Tim Reid
Rated PG
A powerful film directed by Tim Reid and starring Al Freeman, Jr. and Phylicia Rashad. Tim Reid succeeds in touching the consciousness of black America and America as a whole by highlighting the struggles of a young boy growing up in a separated and racist South. This film eloquently reminds us that black people have come a long way while wrapping its message in a touching narrative. This independently made film-like A Raisin in the Sun-should be applauded for being a significant black drama at a time when such films are no longer made by a Hollywood studio system. Great cast and performances.
3. Lady Sings the Blues (1972)
directed by Sidney J. Furie
Rated R
Nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Actress in a Leading Role for Diana Ross, this film chronicles the rise and fall of legendary blues singer Billie Holiday-including her late childhood stint as a prostitute, early tours, marriages and drug addiction. Ross's portrayal is utterly moving, and there's a noteworthy performance by Richard Pryor. The story alone was Oscar-worthy, but Ross certainly should have garnered the Oscar for Best Actress. Lady Sings the Blues was the perfect package from the script to the performances, from the score to the music. This film made us a believer of Ross' chops as an actress.
4. The Color Purple (1985)
directed by Steven Spielberg
Rated PG-13
Based on the book by Alice Walker, this compelling story follows the life of Celie, a young black girl growing up in the early 1900s. We stay with her for the next 30 years of her tough life. It's a very important story rich in commentaries about the human condition, black people's identity and role in the rural South, the internal struggle for personal identity, the longing to understand one's personal history, and more. On top of those very poignant themes, the film boasts stellar performances from an impeccable ensemble cast including newcomers Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey. Add to that Spielberg's keen sensibilities as a director and you have a deeply memorable film. Nominated for 11 Academy Awards.
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