- Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Ri'chard, Rob Brown
A determined high school basketball coach, against all odds and community backlash, benches his undefeated team for poor academic performance in order to teach them the importance of discipline and education. The movie's powerful message about prioritizing academics over athletics is beautifully delivered through strong performances and impactful storytelling.
More Coach Carter- #27 of 89 onThe Greatest African American Biopics Of All Time, Ranked
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- Allen Payne, Jada Pinkett Smith, Bokeem Woodbine
A poetic love story unfolds between two young lovers in Houston, Texas, as they navigate the challenges of their turbulent pasts and strive to find hope in a seemingly hopeless world. This movie's greatness lies in its powerful performances, evocative cinematography, and heartfelt exploration of love amidst adversity.
More Jason's Lyric- #35 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- Alfre Woodard, Delroy Lindo, David Patrick Kelly
A heartwarming tale of a young girl's coming-of-age in 1970s Brooklyn, amidst the chaos and love of her eccentric family. The movie's captivating storyline, combined with its nostalgic portrayal of a bygone era and Spike Lee's unique directorial style, make it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
More Crooklyn- #80 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
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- Mahershala Ali, Alex R. Hibbert, Ashton SandersA young African-American man grapples with his identity and sexuality while experiencing the everyday struggles of childhood, adolescence, and burgeoning adulthood. The movie's raw portrayal of self-discovery, coupled with its stunning visuals and exceptional performances, make it a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience.
- Denzel Washington, Ray Allen, Milla Jovovich
A convict father is promised a reduced prison sentence if he can convince his estranged, talented son to play basketball for the governor's alma mater. The powerful performances by Denzel Washington and Ray Allen, combined with Spike Lee's masterful storytelling, create an emotionally charged exploration of family dynamics and redemption in the world of sports.
More He Got Game- #37 of 98 onThe Best Movies Of 1998, Ranked
- #132 of 207 onThe Best Sports Movies Ever Made
- #92 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Eminem, Kim Basinger, Brittany Murphy
A young rapper from Detroit struggles to find his voice and make a name for himself in the competitive world of hip-hop, while navigating love, family, and adversity. The movie's raw portrayal of an artist's journey combined with Eminem's powerful performance creates a captivating and inspiring tale of perseverance.
- Tyrese Gibson, Meagan Good, Larenz Tate
An ex-convict's quest to save his kidnapped son from a notorious gangster leads him into the dangerous world of underground crime, forming an unlikely alliance along the way. The movie captivates audiences with its intense action sequences, raw emotion and powerful performances by Tyrese Gibson and Meagan Good.
More Waist Deep- #151 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #16 of 16 on16 Great Chase Movies Where Lovable Outlaws Are On The Run From Justice
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- Michael B. Jordan, Octavia Spencer, Melonie Diaz
A young man's life is tragically cut short on New Year's Eve, as the film intimately explores his final hours and the events leading up to a devastating encounter with law enforcement. The movie captivates audiences through its raw emotion and powerful performances, shining a light on systemic injustice while humanizing its central character.
More Fruitvale Station- #16 of 89 onThe Greatest African American Biopics Of All Time, Ranked
- #27 of 85 onGreat Historical Black Movies Based On True Stories
- #272 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Wesley Snipes, Michael Wright, Theresa Randle
In the heart of Harlem, a determined woman seeks revenge on the mobsters responsible for her boyfriend's murder with the help of voodoo and an army of zombies. The film captivates viewers through its unique blend of blaxploitation and horror elements, creating a thrilling experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
More Sugar Hill- #199 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #34 of 70 onThe Best Movies About Overcoming Adversity
- #6 of 204 on200+ Movies And Shows With Hill In The Title
- Sharron Corley, Gabriel Casseus, Saul Stein
A group of teenagers in a crime-ridden neighborhood navigate the treacherous world of car theft, police corruption, and street violence. The raw portrayal of urban life combined with captivating performances from its ensemble cast make this film a powerful and thought-provoking experience.
More New Jersey Drive- #37 of 75 onThe Best '90s Black Movies, Ranked
- #21 of 60 onThe Best '90s Hood Movies
- #29 of 143 onThe Very Best Movies About Life in the Ghetto
- Glynn Turman, Lawrence-Hilton Jacobs, Garrett MorrisIn 1964 Chicago, a group of high school friends navigate the trials and tribulations of adolescence while trying to make sense of their uncertain futures. The movie's authentic portrayal of friendship and its nostalgic soundtrack create an unforgettable coming-of-age experience that resonates with audiences across generations.More Cooley High
- #70 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- 42
Dope
Shameik Moore, Tony Revolori, Kiersey ClemonsA geeky high school senior finds himself in a wild adventure through the tough streets of Inglewood, California after accidentally getting caught up in a drug deal gone wrong. The movie brilliantly blends comedy with poignant social commentary, creating an entertaining and thought-provoking experience for viewers.
More Dope- #60 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
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- 43
State Property
Beanie Sigel, Omillio Sparks, Memphis BleekA ruthless drug lord's ambition to expand his empire leads him on a violent path, leaving a trail of deception and betrayal in the streets of Philadelphia. With its raw portrayal of urban crime and an ensemble cast delivering powerful performances, this film offers an unflinching look at the harsh realities faced by those caught up in the dangerous world of drugs and violence.
More State Property- #37 of 61 onThe Very Best Black Movies Of The 2000s
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- Omar Epps, Kristy Swanson, Michael Rapaport
A diverse group of college freshmen navigate the challenges and complexities of university life, as they confront racial tension, sexual assault, and personal growth. This thought-provoking film offers an unflinching exploration of societal issues through the lens of a new generation finding their footing in an ever-changing world.
More Higher Learning- #2 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #40 of 90 onThe Best Movies Of 1995
- #39 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Clarence Williams, Joe Torry, Wings Hauser
A thought-provoking anthology of horror stories explores the terrifying consequences of racism, police brutality, and gang violence in urban America. Masterfully blending social commentary with chilling suspense, this film leaves audiences both entertained and enlightened.
More Tales from the Hood- Dig Deeper...'Tales from the Hood' Is An Underrated Horror Movie That's Much Deeper Than People Realize
- #78 of 90 onThe Best Movies Of 1995
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- Edward James Olmos, William Forsythe, Pepe Serna
A powerful crime epic chronicling the rise and fall of a Mexican-American mafia kingpin unfolds as he reflects on his turbulent life from within maximum-security prison walls. This gritty, raw portrayal of gang culture delivers exceptional performances and an unflinching look at the consequences of a life in organized crime.
More American Me- #35 of 52 onThe Best Directorial Debuts Of Famous Actors
- #25 of 39 onThe Best American Movies
- #16 of 69 onThe 65+ Best Prison Movies Of All Time
- Alice Braga, Seu Jorge, Matheus Nachtergaele
In the dangerous slums of Rio de Janeiro, two young boys take divergent paths as one becomes a feared gang leader and the other pursues his dream of becoming a photographer. This raw and visceral film captivates audiences with its brilliant storytelling, powerful performances, and unflinching look at life in the favelas.
More City of God- #229 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #21 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #238 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Allen Payne, Angelle Brooks, Aaron D. Spears
Four childhood friends navigate the dangerous world of drug dealing in Boston, leading to betrayal and personal tragedy. The movie's raw depiction of friendship, loyalty, and crime offers a captivating insight into the lives of its characters.
- LisaRaye McCoy, Bernie Mac, Monica Calhoun
A young woman navigates the complexities and dangers of working at a strip club while pursuing her dreams of escaping that world. The film offers raw, unfiltered insight into this often-misunderstood profession, deftly blending drama, humor, and powerful performances from its talented cast.
More The Players Club- #52 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- #59 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #55 of 86 onThe Best Juneteenth Movies
- Ice Cube, Anthony Anderson, Cedric the Entertainer
A day in the life of a South Side Chicago barbershop reveals the impact it has on the surrounding community, while tackling social issues and fostering camaraderie among its diverse clientele. The movie's witty humor, strong ensemble cast, and heartfelt moments make it an entertaining watch that resonates with audiences.
More Barbershop- #479 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #64 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #16 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- Morgan Freeman, Robert Guillaume, Beverly Todd
A determined principal returns to his old inner-city high school to transform it from a hotbed of crime and drugs into a successful academic institution, using unconventional methods and tough love. The movie's powerful performances, particularly by Morgan Freeman as the no-nonsense principal, and its inspiring true story make it an unforgettable examination of the power of education and leadership.
More Lean on Me - Billy Bob Thornton, Ving Rhames, Benjamin Bratt
A powerful saga of crime, loyalty, and family dynamics follows the lives of two brothers as they navigate through gang life in East Los Angeles. The movie's authentic portrayal of Chicano culture and its raw exploration of brotherhood make it a gripping and unforgettable experience.
More Bound by Honor- Dig Deeper...Famous Movies Filmed in Los Angeles
- And Deeper...Famous Movies Filmed in California
- #40 of 99 onThe Best Period Movies Set in the '80s
- Samuel L. Jackson, John Heard, Kelly RowanWhen a student writes the police code for homicide, 187, inside a textbook owned by teacher Trevor Garfield (Samuel L. Jackson), he feels threatened. The principal dismisses the incident, but, soon after, Trevor is stabbed by the same student. Fifteen months later, a physically and emotionally scarred Trevor relocates to California and takes up substitute teaching. To his dismay, his new school is as full of dangerously undisciplined students as the last one, driving Trevor over the edge.More One Eight Seven
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- Robin Harris, Christopher Reid, Christopher Martin
A teenager's plan for a quiet evening at home goes hilariously awry when his best friend convinces him to throw the ultimate house party, leading to an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and chaos. The movie's infectious energy, memorable dance sequences, and witty humor make it a timeless coming-of-age comedy that continues to resonate with audiences today.
More House Party- #154 of 168 onThe Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked
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- #11 of 123 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- Samuel L. Jackson, Jessie Usher, Richard RoundtreeA smooth-talking private detective navigates the dangerous underworld of Harlem while seeking justice for a young woman and unraveling a web of crime and corruption. The movie's blend of gritty action, sharp dialogue, and an iconic performance by Samuel L. Jackson elevates it to a modern blaxploitation classic.More Shaft
- #34 of 111 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
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- Brian Hooks, N'Bushe Wright, Faizon Love
A young man with a troubled past tries to turn his life around, only to find himself on the edge of disaster when he's given one last chance after receiving two strikes. The raw and authentic portrayal of inner-city struggles combined with captivating performances makes this movie an unforgettable exploration of redemption and resilience.
- Hilary Swank, Patrick Dempsey, Scott Glenn
A dedicated teacher in a racially divided Los Angeles school inspires her at-risk students to believe in themselves and change the course of their lives through journal writing. The movie's powerful storytelling, captivating performances, and its ability to tackle complex social issues make it an inspiring and thought-provoking experience for viewers.
More Freedom Writers- #142 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
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- Dwayne Johnson, Xzibit, Jade Yorker
A dedicated counselor at a juvenile detention center forms a football team with his troubled inmates to teach them discipline, teamwork, and self-respect while facing opposition from both the community and the players themselves. The movie's powerful performances, realistic portrayal of overcoming adversity, and inspiring message make it an unforgettable sports drama that resonates with audiences long after the credits roll.
More Gridiron Gang- #121 of 207 onThe Best Sports Movies Ever Made
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- Harvey Keitel, John Turturro, Delroy Lindo
A young drug dealer finds himself caught between the demands of his ruthless boss and a relentless detective, as he navigates the dangerous world of urban crime. This gritty drama showcases powerful performances, compelling storytelling, and an unflinching look at the harsh realities faced by those living on the fringes of society.
More Clockers- #82 of 90 onThe Best Movies Of 1995
- #299 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- Max Julien, Don Gordon, Richard Pryor
A smooth-talking hustler rises through the ranks of the criminal underworld, ultimately seeking revenge on those who wronged him. This gritty and stylish crime drama offers a captivating look at the complexities of life in the streets while showcasing powerful performances and a memorable soundtrack.
More The Mack- #230 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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