Learn About Black History With These Must-Watch Movies and TV Shows

Black History Month is a great time to deepen our understanding of Black culture, history, and resilience. What better way to do that than through the power of film? This curated syllabus features must-watch movies that shine a light on the Black experience in America. Whether you’re looking for historical insights, cultural appreciation, or just a powerful story, these films will educate, inspire, and move you.  

1. I Am Not Your Negro (2016) 

James Baldwin’s unfinished manuscript comes to life in this documentary, offering a raw and poetic look at race in America through his unfiltered perspective. Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, the film connects the civil rights movement to today’s racial struggles with stunning visuals and powerful archival footage. The impact of Black intellectualism, activism, and how Baldwin’s words remain incredibly relevant. (Be on the lookout for references to this movie during Kendrick Lamar’s Big Game Halftime Show.) 

Watch I Am Not Your Negro on Peacock. 

2. Till (2022) 

This is the heartbreaking story of Mamie Till-Mobley, the mother of Emmett Till, and her pursuit of justice after her 14-year-old son’s murder in 1955. It’s a deeply emotional reminder of the power of a mother’s love and the importance of standing up against injustice. The origins of the modern civil rights movement and how Emmett Till’s story still resonates today. 

Watch Till on Peacock. 

3. The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks (2022) 

See a whole new side of Rosa Parks than what you learned in school. This documentary dives deep into the real Rosa, an activist who fought against racial injustice long before and after that famous bus ride. The truth about Rosa’s lifelong fight for civil rights beyond the Montgomery Bus Boycott. 

Watch The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks on Peacock. 

4. Selma (2014) 

Ava DuVernay’s powerful film chronicles the 1965 voting rights marches, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other activists. It’s a gripping portrayal of a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. The struggle for voting rights, the power of grassroots activism, and the resilience of Black leaders in the fight for equality. 

Watch Selma on Peacock. 

5. Piece by Piece 

This unique animated biopic tells the incredible journey of Pharrell Williams, from his childhood in Virginia to becoming a global music icon, all through the creative lens of LEGO animation. Learn about Pharrell’s rise in the music industry, his influence on pop culture, and the power of creativity — and find a silver lining to your own story. 

Watch Piece by Piece on Peacock. 

6. Style Wars (1983) 

One of the most important documentaries about hip-hop culture, Style Wars captures the early days of graffiti, breakdancing, and rap in New York City. It’s not like your typical documentary yet instead from the eyes of the young artists who helped shape an entire movement. Learn about the foundations of hip-hop and how graffiti became a powerful form of self-expression for Black and Latino youth. 

Watch Style Wars on Peacock. 

Honorable mention: Stream the uncensored Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music documentary exclusively on Peacock. 

Each of these films offers a unique perspective on Black history, activism, music, and culture. Whether you’re learning about civil rights, hip-hop, or artistic rebellion, these stories provide invaluable lessons that are still relevant today. 

Need a Laugh After the Heavy Stuff? 

After diving into history, sometimes you need comedic relief. Here are some fun and lighthearted options to balance things out: 

• Grand Crew – A hilarious sitcom about a group of Black friends navigating life, love, and wine nights in Los Angeles. Stream Grand Crew on Peacock.

• Martin – A classic ‘90s comedy, starring Martin Lawrence, that never fails to bring laughs. Stream Martin on Peacock.

• Saturday Night Live – From Eddie Murphy to Kenan Thompson, Black comedians have been delivering iconic moments for decades. Stream SNL on Peacock.

• The Real Housewives of Atlanta – If you love drama, shade, and over-the-top fun, this Bravo reality show is peak entertainment. Stream RHOA on Peacock. 

• Queens Court – Watch celebrity women find love while serving all the humor and drama. Stream Queens Court. Stream Queens Court on Peacock.

• Everybody Hates Chris – A nostalgic and comedic take on Chris Rock’s childhood, filled with relatable moments and family fun. Stream Everybody Hates Chris on Peacock.

Celebrate the Black creators who enrich entertainment. Discover these and more wonderful movies and shows in Peacock’s Amplifying Black Voices Collection.

Note: Titles are not ranked.