The Most Well-Made Movies About Slavery, Ranked

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Updated May 17, 2024 775.2K views 53 items
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Vote up the best movies about slavery.

Here is a list of slave movies, ranked by their quality and storytelling. These are the top movies that deal with the issue of slaves, the slave trade, the Black slave trade in America, and slavery in general. What are the best slavery movies of all time? Vote up the movies that you think handled the subject matter the best. Good slave movies show the strength of the human spirit and are often inspiring while confronting the undeniable evils of the practice of slavery.

Slavery is among the most despicable institutions of any society that supports it. The United States came close to permanently splitting in two because of slavery. It's a delicate subject that deserves attention, so we can learn from history and never fall into it again. These movies handle slavery with aplomb (sometimes metaphorically) and are definitely worth watching.

Most divisive: Planet of the Apes
Over 5.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Most Well-Made Movies About Slavery, Ranked
  • 12 Years a Slave
    1
    Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch
    1,236 votes

    Based on Solomon Northup's memoir, this film chronicles the life of a free black man kidnapped and sold into slavery. Its depiction of the grim realities of American slavery, including brutal physical punishments, psychological tortures, and dehumanization processes, make it a powerful work. The evocative screenplay and performances ensure that the narrative remains chillingly captivating throughout.

  • Amistad
    2
    Morgan Freeman, Anthony Hopkins, Matthew McConaughey
    929 votes

    Set on the backdrop of an 1839 mutiny aboard a slave ship, this film addresses complex legal issues surrounding slavery as well as its human dimensions. With a gripping story grounded in historical events, it offers an intense visualization of a long struggle for justice. The mix of courtroom drama and poignant narrative helps relay an important chapter in the fight against slavery.

  • Django Unchained
    3
    Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio
    1,150 votes

    This film serves as a vigorous yet imaginative tale about an enslaved African American man who becomes a bounty hunter to rescue his wife from a cruel plantation owner. Exploring the themes of revenge and retribution, it provides a unique perspective on the fight for freedom. It's a piece soaked in stylized violence and dark humor, showcasing a cinematic understanding of the antebellum South's brutalities.

  • Glory
    4
    Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman
    760 votes

    Highlighting the valor and sacrifices of the first all-black regiment in the American Civil War, this film is an inspiring tribute to these often-forgotten heroes. Its masterful storytelling weaves together personal struggles and wartime realities, adding depth to the characters and their mission. The film's combination of strong performances, moving score, and authentic battle scenes create an unforgettable viewing experience.

  • Harriet
    5
    Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monáe, Leslie Odom
    202 votes

    Unraveling the remarkable journey of Harriet Tubman, a slave turned abolitionist, this film captures her courage and tenacity. It dives into her perilous life, documenting her escape from slavery and subsequent missions to liberate others through the Underground Railroad. Here, the protagonist's heroic actions and struggles are brilliantly portrayed, providing an insightful look into an iconic figure's life.

  • Rosewood
    6
    Jon Voight, Ving Rhames, Don Cheadle
    519 votes

    By recounting the tragic events surrounding the racial violence committed against the African American residents of Rosewood in 1923, this film recounts an overlooked chapter in American history. Rosewood employs compelling storytelling and engrossing performances to illustrate the horror and devastation brought by racial prejudice and hatred. It exposes the harsh realities of race relations in the early 20th century, making it a critical examination of our past.

  • The Birth of a Nation
    7
    Nate Parker, Armie Hammer, Mark Boone
    209 votes

    The film depicts Nat Turner's 1831 rebellion, providing a captivating view into the life of an enslaved preacher turned revolutionary leader. Despite being set in a harrowing period of American history, the film steadfastly focuses on faith, resilience, and defiance. The blend of powerful performances and poignant storytelling lends an emotional undertone to the brutal realities of slavery.

  • Free State of Jones
    8
    Matthew McConaughey, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Mahershala Ali
    115 votes

    A thrilling exploration of the Southern farmer-lead rebellion against the Confederacy during the American Civil War, this film presents an unconventional view of the era. It brilliantly portrays the complexities of the socio-political landscape during that time and captures the essence of a struggle for human dignity and freedom. A potent blend of war drama, historical narrative, and romance make this piece especially riveting.

  • Following the life of Alex Haley's paternal grandmother, Queen, this film provides a personal take on the complexities of race and colorism within both white and black communities during the post-slavery era in America. It tackles intricate themes such as identity, heritage, and societal dynamics in the wake of slavery, offering a comprehensive look into America's racial history. The engaging characters and thoughtful narrative make it an essential viewing.

  • Mandingo
    10
    James Mason, Susan George, Perry King
    415 votes

    This racially-charged drama focuses on the intertwined lives of two families living on a plantation in the Antebellum South, offering a fierce critique of racial exploitation and dehumanization. Known for its graphic depiction of plantation life, it provides stark reminders of the systemic cruelties faced by enslaved Africans. It's a daring work, using shocking and provocative imagery to illuminate one of humanity's bleakest periods.

  • Uncle Tom's Cabin
    11
    James B. Lowe, Eulalie Jensen, Margarita Fischer
    338 votes

    A cinematic adaptation of Harriet Beecher Stowe's influential novel, this film delves into the life of the titular character, a faithful and patient slave. It starkly highlights the deep-seated racial stereotypes of the time along with the cruelty and inhumanity of slavery. The emotionally charged plot and compelling storytelling underscore the enduring relevance of this work.

  • Lincoln
    12
    Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn
    122 votes

    Focusing on the last months of President Abraham Lincoln's tenure, this film offers an in-depth look at the political maneuvering that resulted in the 13th Amendment. As much as it's a character study of a great leader, it's also an exploration of the moral complexities surrounding slavery and emancipation. The movie's well-crafted narrative and strong performances breathe life into this pivotal moment in history.

  • Amazing Grace
    13
    Ioan Gruffudd, Romola Garai, Benedict Cumberbatch
    191 votes

    As a chronicle of William Wilberforce's campaign against the British slave trade in the late 18th century, this film draws attention to the tireless fight for abolition beyond American borders. It skillfully highlights the era's political landscape and the personal struggles of a man walking the path of righteousness. The compelling storytelling and striking performances turn this historical drama into a profound and inspiring movie.

  • Gladiator
    14
    Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen
    508 votes

    This epic tale follows a Roman general turned gladiator after being sold into slavery, offering a fantastical rendition of the ancient world's enslavement practices. Through the protagonist's journey, it reveals the brutality and inhumanity within Roman society's power structures. By blending historical richness with spectacular action sequences, it establishes a potent commentary on freedom and dignity.

  • I Am Slave
    15

    I Am Slave

    Lubna Azabal, Nonso Anozie, Isaach de Bankolé
    159 votes

    Inspired by true events, this film recounts the harrowing journey of a young Sudanese woman abducted and sold into modern-day slavery in London. The narrative throws light on the horrifying reality of contemporary slavery hidden beneath the veneer of urban life. Its confronting portrayal gives voice to the thousands of invisible victims, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and action.

  • Braveheart
    16
    Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan
    402 votes

    An epic tale of a Scottish hero leading a rebellion against English oppression, this film presents a different facet of human bondage in the form of serfdom and colonization. It depicts the protagonist's fight for Scotland's freedom and the brutal oppression faced by his countrymen. The narrative effectively illustrates the indomitable spirit of resistance against any form of subjugation.

  • Gone with the Wind
    17
    Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard
    519 votes

    While this film is primarily a romantic epic, its backdrop of the American Civil War and Reconstruction period offers a glimpse into slavery's societal impact. It counters the notion of a romanticized South by illustrating the inherent complexities and prejudices of the era. Though some interpretations may be contentious, it maintains its cultural significance by spotlighting a shifting society grappling with change.

  • The Ten Commandments
    18
    Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, Edward G. Robinson
    297 votes

    An epic biblical saga, this film tells the story of Moses leading Hebrew slaves out of Egyptian bondage. It's an allegorical tale about freedom and liberation, showcasing the physical and spiritual battles against prolonged human subjugation. The timeless themes along with grand visual sequences render it a seminal work in cinema.

  • Spartacus
    19
    Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Jean Simmons
    425 votes

    A popular depiction of the historical uprising led by the enslaved gladiator Spartacus against the Roman Empire, this film strikes a balance between personal drama and societal rebellion. The narrative intelligently explores themes of self-determination, power dynamics, and the human will to resist subjection. Its heroic scope and compelling storytelling make it a memorable cinematic exploration of enslavement and revolt.

  • Memoirs of a Geisha
    20
    Zhang Ziyi, Ken Watanabe, Michelle Yeoh
    232 votes

    Set during pre-WWII Japan, this film illuminates a unique form of cultural servitude - the life of a geisha. By following the story of a young girl sold into this world, it exposes a system fraught with exploitation and objectification. Meanwhile, the elegant narrative and stunning visuals create a complex and intriguing cinematic tapestry.

  • The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman
    21
    Cicely Tyson, Odetta, Richard Dysart
    33 votes

    Chronicling the life of a 110-year-old former slave woman across a century of American history, this film offers a profound perspective on historical changes. It captures the resilience and determination of an individual navigating societal transformations, from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. This central narrative provides a touching exploration of endurance, strength, and hope amidst adversity.

  • The Prince of Egypt
    22
    Val Kilmer, Ralph Fiennes, Michelle Pfeiffer
    100 votes

    This animated feature retells the biblical tale of Moses leading Hebrew slaves out of Egypt, presenting a visual feast with a moving narrative. Infused with stunning musical sequences, it provides an accessible and captivating interpretation of a textual cornerstone. Its narrative nuances and striking animation make it a compelling viewing experience for audiences of all ages.

  • Huckleberry Finn
    23
    Jeff East, Paul Winfield, Harvey Korman
    216 votes

    Based on Mark Twain's classic novel, this film takes viewers on a journey along the Mississippi River, focusing on the camaraderie between a white boy and an escaped slave. It also cleverly critiques the societal norms and prejudices of the time. The film's adventurous and thought-provoking elements make for an evocative exploration of race, friendship, and humanity.

  • Ben-Hur
    24
    Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Stephen Boyd
    72 votes

    This cinematic masterpiece revolves around a prince reduced to a life of slavery who seeks vengeance against his oppressor. It adeptly juxtaposes personal motives against broader societal contexts, providing a gripping narrative. Its larger-than-life spectacle and humanistic themes ensure enduring appeal.

  • Sally Hemings: An American Scandal
    25
    Sam Neill, Diahann Carroll, Jesse Tyler Ferguson
    148 votes

    Recounting the controversial relationship between Thomas Jefferson and his slave Sally Hemings, this film presents an intimate scenario within a grand historical context. It provocatively details the complexities of power dynamics and forbidden love during a time when racial boundaries were strictly enforced. It manages to be both a compelling love story and a thought-provoking look at America’s historical legacy.

  • Beloved
    26
    Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, Thandie Newton
    23 votes

    Adapted from Toni Morrison's Pulitzer-winning novel, this film intricately ties themes of motherhood, trauma, and the supernatural while addressing the long-lasting scars left by slavery. It tracks the journey of a freed slave woman haunted by the child she was forced to kill to protect her from the horrors of slavery. Its multi-layered narrative and hauntingly beautiful execution help convey the profound emotional aftermath of the dreadful institution.

  • Antebellum
    27

    Antebellum

    Janelle Monáe, Jena Malone, Jack Huston
    15 votes

    Mysteriously situated at the nexus of past and present, this film presents a chilling scenario where a successful modern-day woman suddenly finds herself trapped on a plantation during the Civil War. This horror-thriller provides elements of surrealism to express the enduring terror of racial prejudice and slavery. It's a unique entry on this list due to its genre-blending aspects and heart-stopping suspense.

  • Belle
    28
    Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Tom Wilkinson, Sam Reid
    15 votes

    Set in 18th-century England, this film conjures up a compelling depiction of the life of Dido Elizabeth Belle, a mixed-race woman raised by an aristocratic family. It juxtaposes the luxuries of her privileged life with her quest for identity and equality within a society embedded with racial prejudice. Unfolding against the backdrop of a landmark legal case that marked a turning point in the abolition of slavery, it deftly combines personal drama with historical significance.

  • Goodbye Uncle Tom
    29
    Gualtiero Jacopetti, Franco Prosperi
    161 votes

    An Italian pseudo-documentary, this film provides a highly controversial and shocking portrayal of American slavery. Using enacted scenes supposedly based on historical documents, it serves as a visceral indictment of the brutal institution. Its extreme realism and unflinching depictions are intended to provoke thought and discourse on the subject.

  • Jefferson in Paris
    30
    Nick Nolte, Greta Scacchi, Jean-Pierre Aumont
    10 votes

    Exploring a lesser-known facet of Thomas Jefferson's life as America's ambassador in France, this biographical drama subtly examines the man's complex relationship with slavery. Despite his public opposition, it hints at personal contradictions, humanizing a figure often mythicized in history. As a contemplative, intimate portrait, it gracefully melds political deliberations with personal complexities.

  • Race to Freedom: The Story of the Underground Railroad
    31
    Alfre Woodard, Courtney B. Vance, Dawnn Lewis
    16 votes

    Focusing on a group of slaves' dangerous journey to freedom via the Underground Railroad, this film shines a light on the bravery and strength required to escape bondage. The narrative's suspenseful atmosphere, paired with its historical grounding, makes for a compelling watch. The film stands as an inspiring testament to resilience and collective solidarity amidst dire circumstances.

  • Cloud Atlas
    32
    Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent
    42 votes

    A sweeping, multi-narrative epic, this film explores slavery and freedom through various perspectives across time and space. From the uncompromising realities of an American slave ship to a dystopian future steeped in corporate servitude, it links diverse forms of bondage and liberation. By offering such interconnected vignettes, it provides a contemplation on the cyclical nature of history and human condition.

  • The Keeping Room
    33
    Brit Marling, Hailee Steinfeld, Muna Otaru
    68 votes

    Set during the last days of the American Civil War, this film brings forth an unconventional exploration of the power dynamics associated with slavery. The narrative centers on three Southern women defending their home against Union soldiers, effectively turning the typical master-slave dynamic on its head. It's a fascinating exploration of survival, resilience, and the shifting roles forced upon individuals in desperate circumstances.

  • Hercules and the Tyrants of Babylon
    34
    Rock Stevens, Helga Liné, Anna Maria Potani
    8 votes

    This Italian peplum film adds a fantastical layer to the concept of slavery, with the mythical Hercules fighting to free the enslaved people of Babylon. The focus on a larger-than-life protagonist's struggle against oppressive rulers makes this an entertaining and distinctive perspective on the topic. Though operatic, it mirrors the universal desire for freedom and revolt against bondage.

  • Sansho the Bailiff
    35
    Kinuyo Tanaka, Kyōko Kagawa, Eitarō Shindō
    61 votes

    Hailing from Japan, this film presents the story of two aristocratic children sold into slavery under the cruel steward Sansho. Filmed with evocative poise and emotional resonance, it transcends cultural boundaries to deliver a universal story of human endurance against cruelty. An emblem of cinematic art, the film beautifully encapsulates the indomitable spirit of humanity while facing adversity.

  • Planet of the Apes
    36
    Mark Wahlberg, Tim Roth, Helena Bonham Carter
    317 votes

    In this post-apocalyptic science fiction classic, talking apes rule over a world where humans are voiceless, oppressed slaves. The stark reversal of power dynamics forces viewers to contemplate the inherent brutality and prejudice found in enslaving another species. Its exploration of themes such as freedom, rights, and empathy make it a nuanced allegory for real-world issues of discrimination and subjugation.

  • Pompeii
    37
    Kit Harington, Carrie-Anne Moss, Emily Browning
    14 votes

    While primarily an action-adventure with catastrophic sequences, the film starts as a tale of a Celtic tribesman sold into slavery in Rome. The narrative offers a look at Roman slavery practices, especially in the realm of gladiatorial combat. A rich combination of historical backdrop, romance, and spectacular destruction makes it attractively riveting.

  • Arabian Nights
    38
    Ninetto Davoli, Franco Merli, Ines Pellegrini
    7 votes

    Loosely based on ancient Middle Eastern folk tales, this fantasy film illustrates the lives of slaves, rogues, and royals in a mythical Arabian kingdom. Despite its fairy-tale setting, it presents a broader reflection of societal power dynamics, class struggles, and quest for freedom. The enchanting narrative and magical mystique makes it a whimsical yet thought-provoking reflection on subjugation and liberation.

  • 13th
    39
    Melina Abdullah, Michelle Alexander, Cory Booker
    13 votes

    This hard-hitting documentary presents a critical examination of the 13th amendment in relation to America's prison industrial complex, arguing its existence as a form of modern-day slavery. It delivers a powerful analysis of how historical injustices continue to shape contemporary racial disparities. It's a call to action, pointing out the urgent need for systemic changes and social justice.

  • Exodus: Gods and Kings
    40
    Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, John Turturro
    13 votes

    Reinterpreting the biblical tale of Moses liberating Hebrew slaves from pharaonic Egypt, this film presents a grand spectacle laden with contemporary visual effects. While it has a religious undertone, the narrative remains grounded in the primal struggle for liberty. Its epic scale and dramatic storytelling make it a visually stunning interpretation of an age-old story.

  • Drum
    41
    Taye Diggs, Jason Flemyng, Gabriel Mann
    122 votes

    Based on Kyle Onstott's novel, this Blaxploitation film navigates the intricate web of relationships on a pre-Civil War plantation. Through the eponymous character, it portrays the contentious dynamics between slaves, owners, and overseers, showcasing a microcosmic representation of the era's systemic oppression. With its bold storytelling and gritty tone, it leaves a lasting impact on audiences.

  • Agora
    42
    Rachel Weisz, Max Minghella, Oscar Isaac
    8 votes

    Set in ancient Alexandria, this film focuses on the philosopher Hypatia amidst the backdrop of rising Christian power, including its role in perpetuating slavery. It adeptly weaves personal tragedy with wide-ranging sociopolitical upheaval, illustrating the overarching context of servitude within early religious conflicts. The blend of historic drama, philosophical discourse, and female empowerment makes it an absorbing take on historical events.

  • The Legend of Hercules
    43

    The Legend of Hercules

    Kellan Lutz, Scott Adkins, Liam McIntyre
    8 votes

    This fantasy-action film envisages the legendary Greek hero Hercules as a rebellion leader against a tyrant who uses slaves to build an empire. While embarking on a mythical adventure, it comments on resolute endeavors to overthrow oppressive regimes. The combination of mythological elements with themes of resistance and justice makes this an entertaining viewing experience.

  • The Journey of August King
    44
    Thandie Newton, Maya Angelou, Sam Waterston
    115 votes

    Following a white farmer aiding a runaway slave in her journey to freedom, this film subtly addresses the moral dilemmas of individuals entangled in the web of slavery. It explores the perils faced by helpers of fugitive slaves while navigating the socio-political landscape of Antebellum America. The quiet yet moving narrative captures the complexities of human compassion within societal constraints.

  • Ashanti
    45
    Michael Caine, Peter Ustinov, Beverly Johnson
    9 votes

    Revolved around a determined man's quest to rescue his wife kidnapped from Africa to be sold as a slave, this film sheds light on modern slavery, a global issue often overlooked. Despite being an action-adventure, it underscores the resilient fight against continued human trafficking. Its gripping narrative and high-stakes action make it both enlightening and exciting.

  • Bicentennial Man
    46
    Robin Williams, Sam Neill, Embeth Davidtz
    131 votes

    This science-fiction film tells the story of an android striving for freedom and recognition as a human. Although fictional, it mirrors the fight for dignity, equality, and personhood common in historical and contemporary forms of slavery. It's a touching and thought-provoking depiction of personal evolution amidst societal conventions and prejudices.

  • The Birth of a Nation
    47
    Lillian Gish, John Ford, Raoul Walsh
    208 votes

    This silent film from the early 20th century, known for its controversial portrayal of African Americans and glorification of the Ku Klux Klan, inadvertently exposes the deep-seated racism that shaped American film and culture. It uncovers the enduring legacy of racial stereotypes and prejudices linked to slavery, making it an important, though controversial, reference point. Despite its problematic content, its revolutionary filmmaking techniques cement its place in cinema history.

  • Capitalism: Slavery
    48

    Capitalism: Slavery

    Ingrid Bolsø Berdal
    8 votes

    A poignant documentary, this delves into how capitalism was built on the tremendous wealth created by slave labor. It provides an analytical investigation into a rarely-discussed aspect of slavery - the economic benefits reaped by slave-owning societies. By unveiling the links between economics, commerce, and slavery, it offers a well-rounded understanding of this historical blight.

  • Ride with the Devil
    49
    Skeet Ulrich, Tobey Maguire, Jewel
    6 votes
  • Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom
    50
    Paolo Bonacelli, Caterina Boratto, Hélène Surgère
    102 votes

    This disturbing Italian film takes place during Mussolini's fascist regime, where teenagers are subjected to a months-long ordeal of physical, mental, and sexual abuse. While not typical of the genre, it exposes the horrific depths of human cruelty and the exploitation of power, mirroring the dynamics of slavery. Its challenging content, meant for mature audiences, charges viewers to reflect on the extremes of human depravity and subjugation.

  • Ben-Hur
    51
    Jack Huston, Toby Kebbell, Morgan Freeman
    48 votes

    A remake of the 1959 classic, this film reinterprets the story of a prince turned slave seeking revenge against his treacherous brother. Infused with new age visual effects and cinematic style, it continues to explore the themes of slavery, vengeance, forgiveness, and redemption. The revamping of historical grandeur, coupled with an engaging narrative, makes it an interesting counterpart to its predecessor.

  • The Handmaid's Tale
    52
    Natasha Richardson, Robert Duvall, Faye Dunaway
    11 votes
  • Battlefield Earth
    53
    John Travolta, Barry Pepper, Forest Whitaker
    49 votes