Amazing Films Celebrating Black Women’s Voices
It is Black History Month, and here are some of the best films and T.V. series produced by, starring, and loved by women in the Black community.
Starring and created by the lovely Issa Rae, Insecure follows the life of Dee, a 29-year-old youth Liaison for a non-profit organization in Los Angeles, California. Dee and her best friend, Molly, go through trials and tribulations in their love lives, dealing with racism, microaggressions, and life in general. Rae’s web series, The Awkward Black Girl, which premiered on her YouTube channel in 2016, is partially the source of inspiration for the HBO comedy-drama series. You can stream Insecure on Max.
The Color Purple has been a staple in Black households for years, and with the musical rendition of the beloved film, it has once again made its way to the big screen. Accompanied by a Black star-studded cast, the cinematic piece boasts many Black female actresses like Danielle Brooks, Chloe Bailey, Taraji P. Henson, and Fantasia Barrino. Additionally, the film has a spectacular soundtrack. The Color Purple is available for purchase on Apple TV.
The Woman King caused controversy when it first hit theaters in September 2022. The film, set in 1823, tells the remarkable story of an all-female unit of warriors that use their fighting skills to protect their home in Dahomey from colonizing forces. Though the film follows the famed Black Panther female warriors, the Dora Milaje (who were supposed to protect the King during battle) does include accounts of the actual women warriors who were a part of the Agojie women. The Woman King has stunning visuals and great acting, teaching the story about fighting for something you believe in. The film is available for streaming on Netflix.
Once again, Viola Davis makes this list, and she deserves it with this Oscar-winning performance. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is about Ma Rainey, an influential blues singer. During a hot and tumultuous day in 1920s Chicago, Rainey, portrayed by Davis, and her band are at a studio recording music. The film brings the audience through the ups and downs that the characters go through that day. The emotions are palpable through the screen, from Rainey’s irritation to Chadwick Boseman’s character, Levee Green’s anger. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom was the last film Boseman acted in, and he did an incredible job. You can stream the film on Netflix.
Although this is a small list of films and series highlighting Black excellence, this Black History Month, take the time to watch them and other media to learn about the Black experiences.
