It is clear that Hollywood has much progress to make in the pursuit of diversity. We witness year after year how award shows tend to praise productions helmed by cisgender white men, with movements like #OscarsSoWhite, #MeToo, and Times Up illuminating the pervasive lack of inclusivity. However, we can use our influence as consumers to advance these efforts – something that should have been exercised long ago. More specifically, publicizing films directed by talented Black women would commend their work and show the need for change.
These movies – ranging from dramatic to comedic – are made through the female perspective with strength, compassion, and brilliance. Boasting emotional complexity and artistic vision, they further serve as a reminder that Black women must be represented throughout all aspects of filmmaking. So, if you’re searching for your next Friday night flick, take a look at these remarkable movies directed by Black women.
10. Dr. Ayoka Chenzira – Alma’s Rainbow (1994)
Set in Brooklyn in the 1990s, Alma’s Rainbow is a captivating coming-of-age story that follows Rainbow Gold (Victoria Gabrielle Platt), a spirited teenage girl struggling to express herself under her mother Alma’s (Kim Weston-Moran) stringent control. However, the arrival of her worldly and glamorous Aunt Ruby (Mizan Kirby), who has been living in Paris for years, introduces Rainbow to a diverse lifestyle of opulent clothing and independent living – offering her the chance to discover who she is. Moreover, recorded with rich cinematography and superb performances, this film examines the fragile relationship between mothers and daughters and the power of claiming one’s identity.
9. Stella Meghie – The Photograph (2020)
Mae (Issa Rae) receives the task of handling her famed photojournalist mother Christina Eames’s effects after her passing. Upon discovering a photograph in a safety deposit box, Mae resolves to uncover the secrets of her mother’s past. As she immerses herself in Christina’s story, Mae recognizes similarities in matters of living and loving.
8. Channing Godfrey Peoples – Miss Juneteenth (2020)
Set in Texas, Channing Godfrey Peoples’ film explores the vital connection between mothers and daughters. Specifically, the movie tells the story of a former beauty queen who is now a single mom. She is preparing her rebellious teenage daughter for the “Miss Juneteenth” pageant. This captivating depiction highlights dreams, disappointment, resilience, and survival; all put together masterfully by Channing Peoples. Undoubtedly, it’s an inspiring story worth seeing.
7. Tina Gordon – Little (2019)
Issa Rae and Marsai Martin star in this body-swapping comedy, depicting a powerful tech CEO. Consequently, she is suddenly transformed into her thirteen-year-old self. To regain her former shape, she must further confront her own skewed worldview. She relies on her neglected assistant to help guide her through the transformation. A prominent Black female filmmaker directed the project, while Martin served as its executive producer. It earned her the distinction of being the youngest executive producer for one of the best movies directed by Black women.
6. Cheryl Dunye – The Watermelon Woman (1996)
In the realm of “Best Movies Directed by Black Women,” there is still a limited representation of Black queer women. In 1996, Cheryl Dunye became the first Black lesbian to direct a feature film with The Watermelon Woman. It wasn’t until 15 years later that Dee Rees followed suit with her project Pariah. Correspondingly, the protagonist Cheryl works in a video store and discovers an uncredited actress from a 1940s film playing the character of Mammy. Motivated to uncover the woman’s name and story, she makes a documentary about her. The quest unveils hidden secrets and simmering resentments. Additionally, The Watermelon Woman explores Black, LGBTQ+, and Hollywood histories, simultaneously remaining soul-stirring and light-hearted. The film depicts Cheryl’s journey as she explores the lives of Black women who were mandated to live on the fringes.
5. Gina Prince-Bythewood – Love & Basketball (2000)
Love & Basketball is one of those cherished love stories from the early 2000s, worth revisiting time and again. Additionally, with direction and production by Prince-Bythewood, this movie follows two childhood friends whose shared ardor and skill for basketball. It takes them on a journey as they strive to reach their ultimate goal – the professional leagues. Despite their divergent backgrounds, both persevere in pursuit of their dreams.
4. Nzingha Stewart – Tall Girl (2019)
The tallest girl in high school came face-to-face with her doubts when a foreign exchange student captured her heart. Unexpectedly, she was embroiled in a love triangle that strengthened her resolve to stand tall with dignity. Despite the initial criticism of Stewart’s movie, it was an inspiring narrative of youthful growth and acceptance.
3. Kasi Lemmons – Harriet (2019)
Follow the story of Harriet Tubman, an iconic figure whose undaunted courage and compassion revolutionized history. In this regard, witness Cynthia Erivo’s captivating portrayal in one of the best movies directed by Black women. The movie unlocks the inspiring tale of Tubman’s undaunted courage and compassion that revolutionized history.
2. Dee Rees – Mudbound (2017)
Set amid bygone days in the rural sprawl of Mississippi, Dee Rees’ Academy Award-nominated film adaptation of Hillary Jordan’s 2008 novel Mudbound is a stirring exploration of racism and PTSD. The story follows two World War II veterans – one white, one Black – as they attempt to surmount the struggles of life after the war. Moreover, with an intense visual aesthetic and lauded screenplay, direction, and performances, it has enthralled critics and audiences alike.
1. Julie Dash – Daughters Of The Dust (1991)
Julie Dash’s Daughters of the Dust is an iconic feature carrying historical impact. Examining the lives of the Peazant family, the film chronicles their decision whether to stay in their familiar island home or leave for more modern pursuits. From the unborn child’s perspective, it weaves a tale of the past and present in a stunning, poetic fashion. Notably, it pays special attention to the authentic Gullah Geechee dialect. As the members’ secrets slowly unravel, the choice grows ever closer – will they remain in place or venture toward new horizons? Incorporating home and history into one beautiful tapestry, Dash leaves her mark as the first African-American woman to have a full-length theatrical release in America.