Celebrate Black History Month with these 5 iconic movies

American actor and two-time Tony Award winner, Viola Davis, once said, “And that’s what people want to see when they go to the theatre. I believe, at the end of the day, they want to see themselves—parts of their lives they can recognise. And I feel if I can achieve that, it’s pretty spectacular.” Cinema is a reflection of society—its perfections and imperfections, diversities and similarities, familiar circumstances and new adventures. It has been an integral part of revolutions, conflicts, and resolution. It is, therefore, no surprise that many films have been made on the history, culture, and struggles of the African American community. These films highlight the stories of those who fought for their rights each and every day and those who made it—despite their circumstances and, perhaps, even because of it. 

Each year, Black History Month celebrates the people of colour and the African-American community to honour the contribution of many heroes who fought for their fundamental human rights. Here’s a list of movies you can watch to catch a glimpse of their tales. 

Hidden Figures 

Directed by Theodore Melfi, Hidden Figures is an award-winning film based on the lives and journeys of three black women working at NASA in '60s America. The film is a brilliant adaptation of the non-fiction book of the same name and follows the story of three African-American mathematicians, working in NASA at a time when the organisation followed the rules of segregation to the tee. They can’t drink water from the same water filter, must inevitably take a long walk from their desk to use the restroom, and are constantly subject to dismissive and discriminatory remarks. The three women were played by actors Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae and Taraji Henson, who did absolute justice to the story and personalities of their character. 

The Help 

It's been 12 years since The Help released, but the movie continues to touch our hearts. Set in Mississippi during the era of the Jim Crowe laws, it follows the journey of a white female writer, Skeeter, played by Emma Stone, who is filled with a desire to bring about change. She says, “You said to write about what disturbs me, particularly if it bothers no one else.” And so she does. She goes down a rabbit hole of interviewing and spending time with the African-American women, who worked as domestic helpers in rich, white households. She brings out their struggles and challenges, and grows fond of their company. The film is an insight into the layers and layers of racial connotations that existed—whether in conversation, at home, while sitting for a meal, while hopping on to a bus, or going to church. 

Barry 

Directed by Indian-American filmmaker, Vikram Gandhi, Barry is a film about former US President Barack Obama’s life as a student in Columbia University in New York City. Though not a biopic, the film definitely lays an emphasis on race, discrimination, family relations, and more. A young Obama is faced with all kinds of racist remarks, has a struggling relationship with his father, is finding home in unfamiliar spaces, and has a deep desire to piece his life together. It is nonchalant in its way of expressing and showcasing the characters involved—making it easily relatable to many students and young people. 

The Butler 

A personal favourite, The Butler is an American historical drama film, based loosely on the life of Eugene Allen, who worked as a butler at the White House for several years. The film starts with showcasing scenes of corn plantation in the southern parts of America and of slavery that was rampant at the time. It follows the journey of a young Allen, who first works at a restaurant and then ultimately finds himself as a butler at the White House. Allen is ever-optimistic and more than satisfied in his life—with a wife (played fabulously by Oprah) and two children. He emphasises on values like kindness, respect and compassion, and always approaches every situation in such a manner. The film doesn’t take away from the main theme of race and identity, but is filled with moments of humour, love, and laughter.
 
Moonlight 

Moonlight is a coming-of-age film that follows the story of a young African-American boy named Chiron, who finds a mentor and guide in Juan, who is a drug dealer. Juan teaches him how to carve his own way in life and the lessons leave a lasting impression on Chiron. He navigates through life's many facets including discovering his sexual identity, race, work, relationships, and more. Directed by Barry Jenkins, it is the first with an all-black cast and won the Oscars in the Best Film category.