Films about black families showcase the diverse experiences, challenges, and triumphs of African American families. These films often explore themes of love, resilience, identity, and community within the context of the black family unit. Here are some notable films about black families:
“The Cosby Show”, 1984
Director: Jay Sandrich, Tony Singletary, Carl Lauten, John Bowab
This iconic sitcom follows the Huxtable family, led by Cliff and Clair Huxtable, as they navigate the ups and downs of everyday life with humor and heart.
Starring: Bill Cosby, Phylicia Rashad, Keshia Knight Pulliam, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Tempestt Bledsoe, Lisa Bonet, Raven, Sabrina Le Beauf, Geoffrey Owens, Earle Hyman, Joseph C. Phillips;
Production year: 1984;
Genre: melodrama, comedy, family;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “The Cosby Show” on the website imdb.com
“Soul Food”, 1997
Director: George Tillman Jr.
This drama film revolves around the close-knit Joseph family and their Sunday dinners, which serve as a source of comfort and connection as they face various challenges.
Starring: Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, Nia Long, Michael Beach, Mekhi Phifer, Brandon Hammond, Jeffrey D. Sams, Gina Ravera, Irma P. Hall, Carl Wright;
Production year: 1997;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 115 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “Soul Food” on the website imdb.com
“The Pursuit of Happyness”, 2006
Director: Gabriele Muccino
Based on a true story, this film follows Chris Gardner, a single father played by Will Smith, as he struggles to provide for his son while pursuing a career as a stockbroker.
Starring: Will Smith, Jaden Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Brian Howe, James Karen, Dan Castellaneta, Kurt Fuller, Takayo Fischer, Kevin West, George Cheung;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 117 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
More information about the film “The Pursuit of Happyness” on the website imdb.com
“Moonlight”, 2016
Director: Barry Jenkins
This coming-of-age drama tells the story of a young black man named Chiron as he grapples with his identity and sexuality while growing up in a rough Miami neighborhood.
Starring: Alex R. Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, Trevante Rhodes, Naomie Harris, Janelle Monae, Mahershala Ali, Jaden Piner, Jharrel Jerome, André Holland, Patrick Decile;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 110 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Moonlight” on the website imdb.com
“Black Panther”, 2018
Director: Ryan Coogler
While primarily a superhero film, “Black Panther” also explores themes of family and legacy as T'Challa, the Black Panther, must navigate the responsibilities of being both a king and a protector of his people.
Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, Sterling K. Brown, Angela Bassett;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: science fiction, action, adventure;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 134 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Black Panther” on the website imdb.com
“If Beale Street Could Talk”, 2018
Director: Barry Jenkins
Based on the novel by James Baldwin, this film follows a young African American woman named Tish as she fights to prove the innocence of her fiancé, who has been wrongfully accused of a crime.
Starring: KiKi Layne, Stephan James, Regina King, Colman Domingo, Teyonah Parris, Michael Beach, Aunjanue Ellis, Finn Wittrock, Pedro Pascal, Brian Tyree Henry;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 119 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “If Beale Street Could Talk” on the website imdb.com
“Black-ish”, 2014
Director: Anton Cropper, Ken Whittingham, Kevin Bray, Linda Mendoza
This comedy series follows the Johnson family as they navigate issues of race, identity, and culture in contemporary America with humor and wit.
Starring: Anthony Anderson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Marcus Scribner, Miles Brown, Marsai Martin, Peter Mackenzie, Jenifer Lewis, Jeff Meacham, Deon Cole, Yara Shahidi;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: comedy;
Age: 18+;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Black-ish” on the website imdb.com
These films offer a range of perspectives on the black family experience, highlighting the complexities and joys of familial relationships within the African American community.
In conclusion, films about black families offer a rich tapestry of storytelling that sheds light on the complexities, joys, struggles, and triumphs within these diverse and multifaceted communities. From intimate family dramas to powerful narratives addressing issues of race, identity, and resilience, these films provide important representation and amplify voices that have historically been marginalized in mainstream cinema. Through authentic storytelling and compelling performances, these films challenge stereotypes, highlight the universal aspects of human experience, and ultimately celebrate the resilience and love found within black families.
