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History doesn’t just happen; it’s carved out by the rebels and trailblazers who incite change and leave the world a far better place than they found it. This Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating women from all walks of life and the stories that changed the course of history. Black women have been at the forefront of leading the movement toward progress, and there are, thankfully, films that capture their resilience and courageousness so that we may never forget their names and stories.
Let’s take it back to the early 1960s with our first film. Hidden Figures relays the story of Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughn, all of whom worked at the Langley Research Center for NASA. Over the course of the film, we bear witness to the racism and sexism the women faced as they endeavored to play integral parts in the Space Race. Through it all, Katherine, Mary, and Dorothy support one another, and we see the will and bravery they possessed that led to their accomplishments. Hidden Figures ensured their stories were no longer cliff notes in the history books.
Beyond the women of Hidden Figures, there are so many films that capture Black women’s stories and those who made and changed history. Take a look at our roundup and do yourself a favor — check out these films as soon as you can!
‘Till’
One of the most talked about films of 2022, Till stars Danielle Deadwyler as Mamie Till-Mobley, the mother of Emmett Till, and captures one woman’s fortitude and the ways in which she harnessed her pain to ignite a movement. Following her son’s brutal lynching, Mamie vows to expose the cruelty and racism that led to her son’s death. It’s a powerful call to justice, and Deadwyler’s performance as Mamie, every particle of grief and resilience, is mesmerizing.
Watch on Prime Video.
‘Hidden Figures’
In Hidden Figures, Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughn’s story takes center stage. The three women, portrayed by Taraji P. Henson, Janelle Monáe, and Octavia Spencer, played integral roles in the 1960s Space Race, all while combating racism and sexism at Langley Research Center. Bearing witness to their perseverance and determination is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Watch on Disney+.
‘Harriet’
Starring Oscar nominee Cynthia Erivo, Harriet chronicles Harriet Tubman’s harrowing escape from slavery and transformation into one of the most important figures in American history. Her integral role in the abolitionist movement saved hundreds of lives, leaving an indelible impact on the nation.
Watch on HBO Max.
‘Respect’
Before she was the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin was a young girl singing in her church choir. Respect, starring EGOT (that’s Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony-winner) Jennifer Hudson, follows the origins of one of the most famous singers in American history. Franklin’s musicality and artistry are the center of this 2021 film, but Respect also highlights the singer’s dedication to the Civil Rights and feminist movements. American music wouldn’t be what it is today without Aretha Franklin, and this film pays homage to the Queen of Soul in practically every way.
Watch on Prime Video.
‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’
Few singers change the world with their voice, and yet Billie Holiday did just that. The 2021 film The United States vs. Billie Holiday tells the story of singer and activist Billie Holiday, portrayed by Andra Day in her Oscar-nominated performance. Through the film, audiences see why Billie’s voice was so powerful — not only due to her musical prowess but also the lyrics of her songs and how she wielded her star power. Billie Holiday was simultaneously seen as a threat by the FBI and a prominent voice of the Civil Rights movement, and this film captures one of the most fraught chapters of her life, with Day’s electrifying performance at the center.
Watch on Hulu.
‘What’s Love Got To Do With It?’
Another musical biopic we absolutely had to feature in this round-up, What’s Love Got to Do with It stars a phenomenal Angela Bassett in her Oscar-nominated portrayal of Tina Turner. This 1993 film, directed by Brian Gibson, chronicles Turner’s rise to stardom and her marriage to Ike Turner. Bassett portrays Turner’s vulnerability and power in equal measure, capturing a harrowing chapter in the singer’s life as she left her abusive marriage. Complete with electrifying moments and renditions of Turner’s famous songs, this is a must-see film with a powerhouse performance.
Watch on Prime Video.
‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’
When we talk about the blues, we have to talk about Ma Rainey. Gertrude “Ma” Rainey was an influential American singer who was dubbed the Queen of the Blues. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom features EGOT winner Viola Davis as the singer. An adaptation of the 1982 August Wilson play of the same name, the film depicts a sweltering recording session with the Mother of Blues and her band. As Ma Rainey, Davis displays a tenacity and fire like none other, harnessing the real life icon’s will and fortitude.
Watch on Netflix.
‘The Woman King’
With The Woman King, director Gina Prince-Bythewood highlights the story of the Agojie, an army of all-female warriors who protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey. Set in the 1800s, this historical epic takes action to new heights with Viola Davis’ Nanisca leading her forces to combat their adversaries. It’s action-packed and emotional in equal measure. Rendered with precision and expert craft, along with harrowing battle sequences and plenty of heart, The Woman King is a film that will keep your heart racing.
Watch on Netflix.
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