Lee Daniels is no stranger to controversy. The director has built his career on making bold onscreen choices, and defending them regardless of the pushback. The Deliverance, Daniels’ first foray into the horror genre, is a prime example. A character by the name of Alberta, played by Glenn Close, has been diving fans and critics. That said, Lee Daniels’ comments about Alberta, proved even more polarizing on Twitter.
The director claimed that Alberta was a type of person who is present in the lives of every African American. “Every Black person knows an Alberta,” Daniels asserted. “She’s part of the fabric of our community, but we’ve never seen her onscreen before.” The director then praised Oscar nominee Close for her fearless portrayal of the character. “Thank you Glenn for bringing her magnificently to life.” The Deliverance has been critically panned on Rotten Tomatoes, with a 30% score, but it was Lee Daniels’ broad comments that rubbed fans the wrong way.
Many Twitter users felt that Daniels was generalizing the African American experience. Others felt that the director was speaking for them with an authority that he does not have. “There is literally no scenario ever where a non-black person is the actual fabric of a black community,” one incensed user wrote. Lee Daniels’ use of the phrase “fabric of the black community” seemed to be the breaking point. A second user was less irate, but still noted that the director was exaggerated. “The fabric of our community is doing a lot,” they asserted. “I’ve never seen or met anyone like [Alberta] in my life.”
The criticism snowballed when fans did research into the real family that inspired The Deliverance. Glenn Close’s Alberta is obviously white, but the real grandmother she’s based on was African American. This did not sit well with viewers. The grandma is black,” one baffled user tweeted. “Lee Daniels is the actual villain.” The general consensus is that Daniels’ framing of Alberta as being an authentic depiction, while actual being an instance of whitewashing, is not worth praising. Plain and simple, regardless of what the director says.
Tyler Perry has heard it all. He knows what his critics have to say about his films. He’s also aware of how successful his particular style of filmmaking is. Perry is estimated to have a net worth of $1 billion, and his films have grossed over $660 million at the worldwide box office. It’s this pedigree that Perry brings to the table, and why he felt comfortable dismissing criticisms of his work. He recently sat down for an interview with Keke Palmer, though, and decided to address some of these criticisms head on.
Palmer alluded to those who claim Tyler Perry makes the same kind of film over and over again. More specifically, a film in which a Black woman is put in a distressing situation. Perry didn’t shy away from the remark, and instead explained the way he approaches his artistic process. First and foremost, he said, he ignored what detractors had to say. “You gotta drown all that out,” he told Palmer. “If you let somebody talk you out of a place that God has put you in, you are going to find yourself in Hell.” The filmmaker then stated that he has confidence in his work, and his methodology. “I know what I’m doing is exactly what I’m supposed to be doing,” he added.
Tyler Perry doesn’t bash people who criticize his work. Rather, he focuses on the people who enjoy what he makes. “For everyone who is a critic,” he noted. “I have thousands of emails from people saying ‘this changed my life,’ ‘oh my god, you know me.’ So that is what’s important.” The filmmaker also noted that many of his fans are disenfranchised, and do not feel seen or related to on a regular basis. “People like me who are grinders, who know what it’s life,” he posited. “Don’t discount these people and say their story don’t matter.”
Tyler Perry and Keke Palmer have known each other for decades. The latter told People Magazine that Perry offered to help with her skin condition when she was just 14 years old. “I’m grateful to Tyler Perry to this day,” Palmer explained. “I don’t tell many people that story, but I was so grateful to him for helping me because he had the resources and he was paying it forward.” Perry and Palmer would eventually work together on the films Madea’s Family Reunion (2006) and Madea Goes to Jail (2009). Perry’s latest film, Divorce In the Black, is currently streaming on Prime.
Watching romantic comedy movies for Valentine’s Day is something people have been doing for years. Commonly called “rom-coms,” these movies typically have a predictable plot and outcome, which is comforting for people who just want to see love win in the end. Over the years, people have taken different approaches to this genre to make their movies stand out from the rest. They bring unique elements to the plot, characters, soundtrack, and more that offer something refreshing but still remain accessible.
In our list, we‘ve gathered some romantic comedies that did just that. In fact, calling a few of these romantic comedies may not seem accurate to some. Yet, the premise of a couple falling in love through a series of interconnected events is still present in all of them. Plus – the music in all of our movie choices is curated excellently.
Love Don’t Cost A Thing (2003)
Valentine’s Day is on a Wednesday this year, but if you want to watch this movie for your Throwback Thursday, go for it. This movie came out in 2003 and stars a young Nick Cannon, Kenan Thompson, Christina Milian, Steve Harvey, and more. In it, Cannon’s character Alvin lets Millan’s character Dru “pay” him for working on her mother’s car by posing as his girlfriend for two weeks. Alvin isn’t “cool,” so to maintain her image, she changes up his style completely.
His transformation into someone “cool” is drenched in early 2000s hip-hop fashion. With the combination of his color-coordinated tops and bottoms, headbands, long chain, and toothpick, the entire look is a great snapshot of the timeframe the movie released. While not original in its lesson, this is still a fun one that you probably remember or randomly saw on BET one day while flipping channels.
Rye Lane (2023)
This is the newest movie on our list. It was released just over a month after Valentine’s Day in 2023. Rye Lane follows a couple who meet under unique circumstances and end up spending an entire day together. The movie has many modern elements reflected in the soundtrack, costumes, and script. UK slang runs throughout the movie, too. The hip-hop component stems from all of these elements but even extends into the plot itself.
Amongst other situations, characters Yas, played by David Jonsson, and Dom, played by Vivian Oparah, must retrieve a vinyl of A Tribe Called Quest’s The Low-End Theory album from the home of Dom’s ex-boyfriend. A creatively depicted scene also explains why this album was such a key aspect of the relationship. This is one that puts stylization over tropes and still provides an engaging watch.
Poetic Justice (1993)
We know we officially said this was a list of romantic comedy movies for Valentine’s Day. While this movie certainly is not a “rom-com” in the traditional sense, we’d be remiss if we didn’t include it on this list, regardless. John Singleton is a legendary director known for his 90s classics which all have a strong hip-hop element within them. Whether it’s the soundtrack, the costumes or the film’s general tone, everything is on 10. Janet Jackson and Tupac star in the lead roles in this one. Audiences still use GIFs and repost clips from it, and the term “Poetic Justice braids” is commonly used today. This certified classic can be enjoyed all year but might hit a little harder this month.
Let It Shine (2012)
You may have made a face when you saw this entry on the list, but hear us out! This is a great Valentine’s Day movie and is honestly the most hip-hop-centered one on our list. The plot follows Cyrus, played by Tyler James Williams, who secretly writes raps. Because of a simple mistake, people begin to believe his best friend Kris, played by Trevor Jackson, is the one writing the raps – including Cyrus’ crush Roxie, played by Coco Jones. The movie’s story reflects the characters’ ages and teaches lessons in confidence, identity, and more. Plus, there are several musical performances, including a rap battle scene that – amongst the nostalgia – still hits all these years later. This movie is another one that was big, depending on your generation, but still a fun one if you want something more lighthearted than our other entries.
Brown Sugar (2002)
This is a universally celebrated classic Valentine’s Day-related movie from 2002. The movie’s hip hop centric approach sets it apart from many rom-coms. Taye Digg’s character Dre is an A&R Executive for hip-hop, and Sanaa Lathan’s character Sid is an Editor-In-Chief for a magazine. Hip-hop is a running theme in their interactions and is the basis of their initial meeting. The hip-hop influence also extends to the cast of the movie. Rappers Queen Latifah and Mos Def play characters who have direct interactions with Sid and Dre. Additionally, there were cameos from hip-hop legends like Big Daddy Kane, Method Man, Slick Rick, and more. The movie’s soundtrack continued the theme, with the album not only achieving Billboard Chart success but Erykah Badu and Common’s track on it, “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop),” won a Grammy.
Have you seen any of these movies? What movies will you be watching to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Let us know in the comments section.
In a career that has spanned decades, Angela Bassett has delivered awe-inspiring performances that have been deserving of an Oscar. Over the years, she has consistently proved her strengths on the big screen. From her early breakthrough in What’s Love Got To Do With It to her commanding presence in blockbuster hits like Black Panther, her talent has never been in doubt. Despite this, for years, the prestigious Oscar eluded her deserving grasp.
On January 9, 2024, at the 14th Annual Governor’s Awards in LA, the actress was awarded an honorary Oscar. However, that certainly should not have been her very first statuette, considering how many brilliant performances she has given over the years. In her dense filmography, many roles should have secured Bassett the coveted award, at least once. Here are seven of her most powerful and Oscar-deserving roles to date.
7. Tanya Anderson (Akeelah And The Bee)
Bassett’s performance in this 2006 movie stands as a testament to her ability to bring authenticity to any role. In this heartwarming drama, she portrays the mother of the titular character, played by Keke Palmer. While the movie may not have garnered widespread acclaim, her contribution to its emotional impact is undeniable. Although Angela Bassett did not even receive an Oscar nomination for this role, her performance was certainly worthy of winning one for Best Supporting Actress.
In this 1999 biographical musical drama film, Bassett portrays school principal Janet Williams. Most people would be overshadowed by starring alongside Meryl Streep. However, Bassett shines in her supporting role, delivering an understated and sublime performance. Her portrayal of Janet Williams is unforgettable, and one of the best parts of the film. Unfortunately, Angela Bassett was not recognized by the Academy for this performance and did not receive an Oscar nomination. Regardless, it remains a powerful entry in her catalog as an actress.
5. Stella Payne (How Stella Got Her Groove Back)
Released on August 14, 1998, How Stella Got Her Groove Back is a sexy romantic comedy-drama film. In the movie, Bassett takes on the role of Stella Payne, a successful but emotionally reserved career woman. Her portrayal of Stella is a masterclass in capturing the intricacies of a character undergoing personal transformation. Moreover, she skillfully navigates Stella’s journey from a place of emotional guardedness to rediscovering love and passion. In addition, the chemistry between Bassett and co-star Taye Diggs is palpable, making the romantic narrative very believable.
4. Betty Shabazz (Malcolm X)
After seeing Malcolm X (1992), everyone can agree that Denzel Washington deserved his Oscar nomination. However, given her performance in the film, Angela Bassett easily should have received an Oscar nomination as well. As a matter of fact, with this role, she should have won in the Best Supporting Actress category. Despite the disappointing turn of events that left her without even a nomination, Bassett’s portrayal of Betty Shabazz is a masterclass in subtlety and strength. Throughout the movie, she showcased a depth that resonated beyond the confines of the screen.
3. Bernadine Harris (Waiting To Exhale)
Portraying a woman grappling with the challenges of a crumbling marriage and the pursuit of self-discovery, Angela Bassett shines. Without a doubt, this is one of the actress’ best performances ever. Bassett infused Bernadine with a potent mix of strength, vulnerability, and resilience as she fleshed out this character. Also worthy of note is the chemistry between the cast members, including Whitney Houston, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon. Although no Oscar buzz followed, Angela Bassett certainly gave one of the best performances of 1995 in this film.
2. Queen Ramonda (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever)
While Bassett gave a stellar performance in the first Black Panther film, it was in Wakanda Forever that she shone the brightest. Playing Queen Ramonda, she put her heart and soul into this performance, and it was plain to see on-screen. Comic book movies are very rarely recognized, especially in the acting categories. However, with her electrifying performance on Wakanda Forever, Angela Bassett secured her second-ever Oscar nomination. While she did not win, many believe she was robbed, and deserved that award more than all other nominees.
Bassett’s performance as Tina Turner is arguably her most lauded role to date. Many regard it to be the actress’ magnum opus, and understandably so. In this 1993 biographical film, she left it all on the floor. Her portrayal of the Queen of Rock & Roll is nothing short of a revelation. The raw emotion, magnetic stage presence, and vulnerability she brought to the character were nearly unbelievable. Certainly, it came as no surprise when Angela Bassett received her first Oscar nomination for the role. However, it surprised many when she didn’t win the award at the 1994 ceremony. Without a doubt, this role should have secured Bassett’s first Oscar win, but it unfortunately wasn’t so. Nevertheless, it remains a performance that continues to echo through the halls of cinematic history.
Paula Jai Parker has graced the silver screen in a variety of memorable roles. Renowned for her versatility and emotive performances in movies like Sprung and Hustle & Flow, the actress has left an indelible mark on cinema. The movies that Paula Jai Parker has starred in have also highlighted her exceptional talent in the entertainment industry. Recently, she called out Cassie for suing Diddy, claiming the singer is not “built for the industry,” and has understandably received backlash.
Nonetheless, Parker’s groundbreaking performances in film have won her significant praise. She has starred in multiple box-office successes, showcasing her range. The following three films not only showcase her artistic range but also her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Let’s embark on a cinematic journey through the three biggest Paula Jai Parker movies.
Ray (2004)
Ray, a captivating and emotionally charged biographical film released in 2004, chronicles the life and career of Ray Charles, one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. The Taylor Hackford-directed film captures Charles’ journey from his humble beginnings in the segregated South. It especially shines a light on his rise to fame in the 1950s and 1960s, which made him an American music icon.
Ray also delves deep into Charles’ struggles with racism, drug addiction, and the challenges of his visual impairment. This offers a raw and honest portrayal of his life’s trials and triumphs. Jamie Foxx delivers a masterful performance as Ray Charles, embodying the musician’s spirit, talent, and complexity. Moreover, the execution of the role earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. Notably, Paula Jai Parker wasn’t one of the main characters in Ray. However, she contributes a memorable performance as Ruth Brown, a fellow musician and one of Charles’ contemporaries. Her portrayal of Brown provides an insightful glimpse into the vibrant music scene of the era, highlighting the interactions and influences among artists of that time. Paula Jai Parker also brings her star quality, as seen in the bulk of her movies. Even though her role is not central to the plot, she adds depth to the narrative.
Overall, Ray stands out not only for its powerful storytelling and stellar performances but also for its authentic depiction of the music industry. The film’s portrayal of Ray Charles’ innovations in soul, R&B, and other music genres underscores his profound influence on the music industry and his enduring legacy. It is no wonder that Ray won two Oscars. Additionally, the movie’s box office performance was also impressive, as it ended up grossing $124 million.
Paula Jai Parker has shown off her versatility in multiple movies. One of them is Phone Booth, a gripping psychological thriller directed by Joel Schumacher. The film follows the intense experience of Stu Shepard (Colin Farrell), a slick and self-absorbed publicist. Stu’s comfortable life is shaken when he answers a ringing phone booth and finds himself speaking to a sniper.
The sniper seems to know all about Stu and presents him with the fact that he has been cheating on his wife with Pamela McFadden (Katie Holmes). The sniper presents Stu with two choices: confess your misdeeds or die. At this point, the plot spirals in different directions, and the consequences of Stu’s actions or inactions are exposed. Phone Booth is noteworthy for its real-time narrative structure and the way it maintains high tension, even within a confined setting. It also explores themes of voyeurism, confession, and the consequences of one’s actions, all while keeping the audience on edge. The voice of the caller, provided by Kiefer Sutherland, adds a chill to the film, turning a simple phone booth into a stage for psychological warfare.
In one of the most high-stakes movies of the 2000s, Paula Jai Parker plays the role of Felicia, Stu’s assistant. Her character adds a layer of personal drama and tension to the plot, as her interactions with Stu reveal more about his character and life. Parker’s performance also contributes to the film’s exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the masks people wear in public, versus their true selves. Phone Booth stands out as a unique cinematic experience, combining a simple setting with psychological depth and suspense. Grossing $97.8 million, it also goes into the records as one of the biggest Paula Jai Parker movies.
Friday (1995)
Friday is a cult classic comedy film directed by F. Gary Gray and written by Ice Cube and DJ Pooh. Set in South Central Los Angeles, the movie offers a humorous and relatable slice of life in the urban community. It follows the story of Craig Jones (Ice Cube) and his best friend Smokey (Chris Tucker). They spend a typical Friday dealing with multiple comical and challenging situations, including neighborhood bullies, relationship woes, and an ill-fated drug deal.
Friday’s authentic portrayal of African-American life and culture has been praised. It also notably broke away from the stereotypes of violence and despair. Instead, it presents a lighter, more comedic side while still touching on serious issues like drug use and unemployment. In one of the most lauded Hip Hop movies of all time, Paula Jai Parker shines in her role as Joi, Craig’s demanding and overbearing girlfriend. Her character also adds a humorous layer to the film, as she embodies the stereotypical troublesome girlfriend, contributing to Craig’s already complicated day.
Overall, Parker’s portrayal adds to the dynamic range of characters in the neighborhood. Today, Friday has become an iconic film in the comedy genre, known for its witty dialogue and memorable one-liners. Moreover, the film’s ability to capture the essence of life in the inner city with humor and heart is also worth noting. The film ended up grossing $59.8 million.
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.
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.
Nia Long has explained her recent comments on not liking the term “Black movies.” She elaborated on the opinion during an appearance on The Daily Show with guest host Wanda Sykes.
“What I mean by that is, if we continue to practice this idea of separatism, we continue to divide,” Long said. “And I will always and forever hold my fist up because I understand the experience. But I also believe the more we understand about one another, and the more accepting we are of one another, this thing called art should be representative of all of us.”
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 12: Nia Long attends the Stage 6 and Screen Gems world premiere of “Missing” at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown Los Angeles on January 12, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)
Long had originally told Buzzfeed that the idea of “Black movies” only serves to “hold us back.”
“I think terms like that hold us back,” Long said. “And I have to catch myself sometimes too, because I’m very proud of who I am.”
“When I use the word ‘Black,’ I don’t use it as a way to separate ourselves from anyone,” Long told the outlet. “I use it as a way to put an exclamation point behind our greatness, because I don’t think that it’s always been celebrated and recognized.”
She continued: “I’m here to represent who we are. And if you want to come along for the ride, everyone’s welcome!”
Nia Long’s latest film, You People, was released on Netflix on Friday. She stars alongside Eddie Murphy, Jonah Hill, Lauren London, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and more. The story follows a young couple who deal with cultural clashes and generational divides.
Long recently revealed that she wants to work with Murphy on another rom-com at some point in the future.
Check out Nia Long’s comments on The Daily Show below.
