Cuddle Up With Black History: 6 Must-Watch historical works on NetFlix

Cuddle Up with Black History: 6 Must-Watch Black Historical Works (on Netflix)

Let your next movie night have a purpose. Explore black history through films that will enlighten you of events that happened over the last five decades.

By: N'diah Love

Read Time: 4 Minutes

Black allyship is more than just a repost or a donation; it is the desire to understand and center black oppression and black history. For the many well-meaning people who may not know where to start, I say, start at the beginning. Below I have curated a list of 6 must-watch docuseries and historical films that center historical black stories, faces, and spaces.

1 When They See Us

Black History Movie - When they see us Cover

Ava Duvernay writes and directs a heart-wrenching series following the lives of the Central Park Five over a 25-year span. It began in 1989 when a jogger was assaulted and raped in New York’s Central Park, and five black young men were charged with the crime, ultimately end with the settlement reached with the city of New York in 2014.

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2 Malcolm X

Directed by the legendary Spike Lee, the movie is a biographical drama about the legacy of black activist and leader Malcolm X.

3 The Death and Life of Martha P. Johnson

Black History Movie - The Death and Live of Marsha P Johnson

This documentary investigates the life and mysterious death of Stonewall veteran and black gay rights leader Marsha P Johnson.

4 LA 92

Timely recount and examination of the LA riots following the infamous acquittal of four police officers for beating black motorist, Rodney King.

5 The Two Killings Of Sam Cooke

Black History Movie - Two Killings Of Sam Cooke

This critically acclaimed documentary about musician and activist, Sam Cooke, takes us down the history of his life and untimely murder.

6 What Happened Miss Simone

Black History Movie - What Happened Miss Simone

Academy-award nominated documentary follows the life of pianist, songstress, and black activist Nina Simone.

These films and series barely scratch the surface of the radiance and richness of black history, but it is a great start on cultural education. Cuddle up and dive into these historical works that show you a glimpse of the African American fight for equality.