Movies about Racism: A Path to Understanding and Change

Just Mercy (PG-13)

Starring: Michael B. Jordan, Jaime Foxx, and Brie Larson
“Just Mercy” portrays the real-life story of Bryan Stevenson’s pursuit for justice as he defends the wrongly convicted African American death row inmate Walter McMillian. Stevenson navigates systematic racism and legal challenges as he tries to expose the flaws in the judicial system.
Streaming: Prime Video

Do the Right Thing (R)

Starring: Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, and Ruby Dee
“Do the Right Thing” explores the racial tension between residents in a Brooklyn neighborhood on the hottest day of the summer. As the day progresses, conflicts between residents and police begin to boil over, leading to a devastating confrontation that underscores the prejudice and community dynamic in America.
Streaming: Prime Video

The Hate U Give (PG-13)

Starring: Amanda Stenberg, Regina Hall, and Russell Hornsby
“The Hate U Give follows Starr Carter, a teenager who witnesses the wrongful police shooting of her friend. Starr navigates her predominantly Black neighborhood and her predominantly white prep school, all while battling systematic racism and finding her voice to fight for justice.
Streaming: Prime Video

Harriet (PG-13)

Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monáe, and Leslie Odom Jr.
“Harriet” tells the powerful story of Harriet Tubman and her journey to becoming one of the greatest African American heroes. Risking her life to free herself, she became a conductor of the Underground Railroad, liberating hundreds of slaves and leading them to freedom.
Streaming: Netflix and Prime Video

Selma (R)

Starring: David Oyelowo, Carme Ejogo, and Oprah Winfrey
“Selma” follows the life of Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement after the Montgomery bus boycott. Dr. King continued his campaign to secure equal voting rights by walking from Selma to Montgomery and upholding his “I Have a Dream” speech. The movie shows the difficulties in the lives of King and other activists at pivotal moments, such as the passing of the Civil Rights Act.
Streaming: Prime Video, MGM+, and Paramount+

Mississippi Burning (R)

Starring: Gene Hackman, Willem Dafoe, and Frances McDormand
“Mississippi Burning” depicts FBI agents Rupert Anderson and Alan Ward as they investigate the mysterious disappearance of three civil rights activists. Amid racial tension and resistance from local authorities, they uncover Klan corruption and violence. This film confronts institutional racism and the struggle for justice in the Civil Rights era.
Streaming: MGM+, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, and Tubi

The Help (PG-13)

Starring: Viola Davis, Emma Stone, and Octavia Spencer
“The Help” explores racial tension during the 1960s through the eyes of three women: Skeeter, an aspiring writer; Aibileen, a Black maid; and Minny, Aibileen’s friend. All three women come together to work on a writing project that exposes the hardships faced by African American maids, sparking a need for change. “The Help” provides a pivotal insight into the lives of Black women in the times of the Jim Crow South.
Streaming: Prime Video

If Beale Street Could Talk (R)

Starring: Kiki Layne, Stephan James, and Regina King
“If Beale Street Could Talk” portrays the love story of Fonny and Tish, a young African American couple from 1970s Harlem. When Fonny is falsely accused of rape, their world is destroyed. Tish battles against the judicial system and systematic racism to prove Fonny’s innocence.
Streaming: Freevee and Peacock

Till (PG-13)

Starring: Danielle Deadwyler, Jaylyn Hall, and Frankie Faison
“Till” portrays the true story of Maime Till-Mobley as she seeks justice for her son Emmett Till, who was wrongfully and brutally murdered in segregated Mississippi in 1955. Maime and Emmett’s story exposes the brutality of racism, sparking the Civil Rights Movement and changing American history.
Streaming: MGM+ and Prime Video

Moonlight (R)

Starring: Mahershala Ali, Naomie Harris, and Trevante Rhodes
“Moonlight” chronicles the life of Chiron, a young African American man living in Miami. The movie is split into three defining points in his life, exploring his struggles with identity, masculinity, and sexuality in a changing environment. “Moonlight” portrays transformation, both personal and societal.
Streaming: Hulu and Prime Video

These films highlight all aspects of Black history. Black activists have fought in many ways, including riots, emancipation, and non-violent protests. Equality is a right that comes with American citizenship, but minorities around the country do not feel that equality.

Black people have a long history of facing injustice, oppression, and a lack of racial equality. Racial discrimination against Black Americans has included issues such as segregation, slavery, and systemic oppression. This history has inspired the Black community to respond with activism and defy racist ideologies. Discover these thought-provoking stories that influence discussions and foster understanding within the Black community.

Exploring movies about racism is not just about entertainment but also about educating the public. These movies require viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s history and understand different standpoints. Hopefully, these movies will inspire viewers to work towards a more inclusive society and promote a more positive community.

Did we miss any movies about racism? Please let us know in the comments or contact us at The Voice of Black Cincinnati. These films address the harsh reality the Black community has faced for years.

The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-966-3328.