16 Movies From 2024 You Shouldn’t Miss

Black voices in media are vital, offering perspectives that enrich and expand the cultural conversation. Stories created by Black casts and creatives provide representation and a lens into the complexities of identity, resilience and shared humanity. Our films, created by and starring us, challenge stereotypes, celebrate culture and address pressing social issues, which helps foster understanding and connection.

Cinema this year offered a diverse palette of storytelling, from the first biblical epic starring a predominantly Black cast to award-winning indie films. By supporting Black storytelling and amplifying the voices of those historically underrepresented in mainstream media, our art remains a powerful force, driving change, inspiring audiences and keeping us thoroughly entertained,

Celebrate Black filmmaking by revisiting these films…or enjoy them for the first time.

The Book of Clarence (PG-13)

Jeymes Samuel’s The Book of Clarence stars LaKeith Stanfield as a man seeking a new life for his family, drawn to the fame of a Messiah figure. Set in biblical times, the comedy-drama explores themes of faith and ambition, featuring a talented cast and a unique perspective into how our people existed in those times.

Bob Marley: One Love (PG-13)

Bob Marley: One Love chronicles the legendary reggae icon’s journey from humble beginnings in Jamaica to international stardom. The musical drama explores Marley’s enduring legacy, explores his groundbreaking artistry and reveals the love story between Bob and Rita Marley, one that has endured even beyond his untimely death.

The American Society of Magical Negroes (PG-13)

Blending comedy and fantasy, The American Society of Magical Negroes tells the story of Aren (Justice Smith), a timid young Black man inducted into a secret group of Black people who use magic to aid white people’s fears. As he grows disillusioned, the film cleverly critiques societal expectations of our community. Through sharp humor, it becomes a thought-provoking commentary on race and media tropes.

We Grown Now (PG)

We Grown Now is a poignant coming-of-age drama set in 1992 Chicago, following best friends Malik and Eric as they navigate life in the Cabrini-Green public housing complex. Their unshakable bond faces a severe test when tragedy strikes. It’s a heartfelt exploration of friendship, resilience and the struggles of growing while facing adversity.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die (R)

Miami detectives Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) reunite for Bad Boys: Ride or Die, the fourth installment of the action-packed adventure. With explosive stunts and sharp humor, this classic duo takes on a high-stakes mission to clear their late captain’s name. It’s a blend of thrilling sequences and comedic chemistry between the two we have come to love.

Sing Sing (R)

Sing Sing follows Divine G, played by Colman Domingo, a wrongfully imprisoned man who finds solace and purpose in a prison theater group. Based on the real-life theater program started at the facility in the nineties, the movie also stars Clarence Maclin, who was formally incarcerated and went through the program, and several now-freed men who found their confidence and voice through its existence.

The Deliverance (R)

A chilling horror film based on true events from this year, The Deliverance follows a family in Indiana confronting terrifying, demonic phenomena in their home. EBONY September cover star Andra Day plays Ebony Jackson, who discovers her house is a portal to hell, putting everyone in her family in danger. It’s a suspenseful tale of faith, fear and the unexplainable.

Rob Peace (R)

Rob Peace tells the inspiring yet tragic story of a gifted young man whose determination and intellect are shaped by his mother’s sacrifices. Despite his promise, he jeopardizes his future to help his imprisoned father, offering a powerful exploration of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of ambition and loyalty.

The Forge (PG)

The Forge follows a young man at a crossroads, encouraged by his determined mother and a successful mentor to redefine his future. Guided by their support and biblical teachings, he embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery, guided by a group of Black male mentors.

Exhibiting Forgiveness (R)

Exhibiting Forgiveness follows a rising Black artist whose journey to success is interrupted by his estranged father, who’s recovering from addiction and seeking redemption. Navigating their shared pain, this drama thoughtfully examines the complexities of forgiveness and reconciliation, featuring heartfelt performances from its cast members, which include André Holland and Andra Day.

Nickel Boys (PG-13)

Nickel Boys follows Elwood Curtis, a young Black man whose dreams are shattered when he is sent to a brutal reform school based on the real-life, now-closed Dozier School for Boys in Florida. Navigating hardship, he forms a life-changing bond with fellow inmate Turner and seeks solace in the power of friendship.

Unstoppable (PG-13)

Unstoppable tells the incredible true story of Anthony Robles, a wrestler born with one leg who defies all odds to become a college champion. Facing the school that once rejected him, his journey is a testament to resilience, determination and the power of believing in one’s limitless potential.

The Six Triple Eight (PG-13)

During World War II, 855 Black women were part of the 6888, the only all-female Black battalion to serve overseas in World War II. Given the task of sorting a massive mail backlog, they tackled their mission with strength and grace despite the challenges of racism and sexism. Tyler Perry’s The Six Triple Eight reveals real-life officers and embodies the souls of many women who served their country with pride.

Mufasa: The Lion King (PG)

Mufasa: The Lion King explores the origins of King Mufasa, Simba’s father. It follows an orphaned Mufasa as he meets Taka, a royal heir. Together, they embark on a transformative journey with a group of misfits, uncovering the paths to their destinies and the rise and fall of a friendship broken.

Hard Truths (R)

Distinguished actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste gives a riveting performance in Hard Truths as Pansy, a depressed middle-aged woman. Her attitude affects all her relationships with people who strain to stay close to her, including her happy-go-lucky sister, Chantelle. It’s a heartfelt examination of getting stuck and the fear of taking the necessary steps to turn a life of sorrow back onto the path of joy.

The Fire Inside (PG-13)

Ryan Destiny stars in the inspiring true story of Claressa “T-Rex” Shields and brings her story to life. The Fire Inside follows her journey as a determined boxer from Flint, Michigan. Overcoming adversity, she trains tirelessly to make history as the first American woman to win Olympic gold in boxing, breaking barriers in sports and society.

Share This Post
Have your say!
00

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>