5 best movies to stream during Black History Month
As Black History Month comes to a close, there is still time to celebrate some of the Black individuals who have had a massive influence. Some of these marquee stars are part of Hollywood and, over the years, have reshaped United States cinema. We take a look at five such films that have made a major impact on audiences with some incredible storytelling and fine pieces of acting.
'42'
The late Chadwick Aaron Boseman made headlines with his portrayal of Jackie Robinson. The mid-1940s saw Major League Baseball as a predominantly white sport. '42' follows Robinson's journey when he makes history by becoming the first African American to play in the MLB.
'King Richard'
Starring Will Smith, 'King Richard' was another biographical sports drama that stunned the world upon release. The film sees Smith play the role of legendary Tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams. Also starring are Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton, Tony Goldwyn, and Jon Bernthal in key roles.
'Black Panther'
Boseman became a household name as King T'Challa in 'Black Panther'. The MCU film serves as the storyline delving deeper into the life of the King of Wakanda. It also starred Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Danai Gurira, Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya, Letitia Wright, Winston Duke, Sterling K. Brown, Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, and Andy Serkis in major roles. The film became the first superhero flick to receive a Best Picture nomination, and the first MCU movie to win an Academy Award.
'Sinners'
The Michael B. Jordan-starrer tackles more than just horror in the film. Masterful storytelling by Ryan Coogler, along with eye-popping visuals, saw 'Sinners' rake in a record 16 Academy Award nominations. Set in 1932 in the Mississippi Delta, the film stars Jordan in dual roles as criminal twin brothers who return to their hometown, where they go toe-to-to by a supernatural evil.
'Malcolm X'
Malcolm X will go down in history as one of the most influential biographical epics that follows the life of the legendary Black nationalist leader. The film charts his transformation from his formative years to his ministry with the Nation of Islam and his eventual tragic assassination.