From 'Malcolm X' to 'Barry': 5 must-watch movies similar to 'Shirley' if you've finished watching Netflix's biopic
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Netflix's 'Shirley', directed by John Ridley, is a touching biopic that shows Shirley Chisholm's historic 1972 run for president, making her the first Black woman in the US Congress.
Regina King shines in the lead role, bringing Chisholm’s trailblazing campaign to life with sincerity and strength.
Lance Reddick and Lucas Hedges also deliver notable performances, adding depth to the portrayal of Chisholm's pioneering legacy and the obstacles she overcame in politics.
The movie dropped on Netflix, on Friday, March 22, and has gained positive reviews from fans and critics worldwide.
In the meantime, if you are interested in stories of political pioneers, here are 5 films like 'Shirley' that you should watch. Whether you're in the mood for more brilliant television, we've got you covered.
The Great Debaters (2007)
Directed by Denzel Washington, 'The Great Debaters' is an uplifting biographical film that tells the real-life story of Melvin B. Tolson, a professor and debate coach at Wiley College in the 1930s.
With performances by Denzel Washington, Forest Whitaker, and Nate Parker, the movie showcases how Tolson guides his team of African American students as they overcome racial hurdles to compete with elite Ivy League schools in a national debate championship.
Echoing the themes found in 'Shirley', 'The Great Debaters' delves into the realms of intellectual challenge, the fight for social justice, and the influential role of education, painting a moving picture of those who dared to defy societal norms and inspire change through the power of words and debate.
'The Great Debaters' is available to stream on Netflix
The Rosa Parks Story (2002)
Directed by Julie Dash, 'The Rosa Parks Story' shares similarities with 'Shirley' in its depiction of a brave woman who stands against societal expectations to initiate change.
Angela Bassett stars as Rosa Parks, whose act of defiance on a Montgomery bus in 1955—refusing to surrender her seat to a white passenger—sparks the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a key event in the civil rights movement.
This film delves into Parks' life, tracing her activism from the beginning and her lasting impact as the 'Mother of the Civil Rights Movement', highlighting themes of perseverance and the fight for social justice, much like 'Shirley'.
'The Rosa Parks Story' is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video
Malcolm X (1992)
Directed by Spike Lee, 'Malcolm X' reflects 'Shirley' in its deep dive into identity issues and the pursuit of social justice.
Denzel Washington delivers an unforgettable performance as the legendary civil rights leader, earning him an Oscar nomination.
The film chronicles Malcolm X's life, from his early days as a street hustler to becoming a key figure in the Nation of Islam, and his eventual departure from the group.
'Malcolm X' explores themes of empowerment, the journey of self-discovery, and the fight against systemic injustice.
Similar to 'Shirley', the film presents a powerful story of an individual's challenge against societal constraints, focusing on Malcolm X's relentless quest for racial justice and freedom.
'Malcolm X' is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video
Barry (2016)
Directed by Vikram Gandhi, 'Barry' provides an intriguing look at Barack Obama's early life, drawing comparisons to 'Shirley's' powerful story.
Devon Terrell stands out with his portrayal of a young Obama figuring out his place and principles while at Columbia University in the early 1980s.
The film delves into Obama’s reflective journey, touching on themes of race, identity, and the quest for justice, appealing to fans of 'Shirley'.
Similar to 'Shirley's' depiction of a woman confronting societal barriers, 'Barry' fascinatingly charts Obama's evolution from a college student to a future president, offering a compelling narrative of determination and self-discovery.
'Barry' is available to stream on Netflix
One Night in Miami… (2020)
Directed by Regina King (Who also plays the lead role in 'Shirley'), 'One Night in Miami…' is a captivating drama imagining a fictional meeting between four civil rights icons: Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke.
With Kingsley Ben-Adir, Eli Goree, Aldis Hodge, and Leslie Odom Jr. leading the cast, the film explores themes of race, identity, and activism through their passionate conversations and personal reflections.
Similar to 'Shirley', which focuses on the journey of one individual, 'One Night in Miami…' provides a multifaceted look at the African American experience, showcasing the collective strength and resilience of those fighting for equality and social change in challenging times.
'One Night in Miami…' is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
'Shirley' is currently streaming on Netflix