The 100+ Best Black Thriller Movies, Ranked

Ranker Film
Updated May 17, 2024 138.9K views 119 items
Ranked By
5.4K votes
954 voters
1 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite thrillers that feature Black actors and characters.
Latest additions: Passing, Acrimony, The Devil You Know
Most divisive: A Fall from Grace
Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 100+ Best Black Thriller Movies, Ranked

This list is all about the best Black thriller movies, ranked from best to worst by user votes. The best Black thriller films come in many forms and star the best African American actors working in Hollywood. Some Black suspense films revolve around a deadly love triangle while other good Black thriller movies feature crooked cops. A few of the best Black thriller films are even award winners.

What films will you find on this top Black thrillers movies list? Training Day has to be at the top. This 2001 film featured Denzel Washington as Detective Alonzo Harris, a ranking member of the LAPD who blurs the line between cop and criminal. Washington took home the Oscar for Best Actor for the role. Lakeview Terrace is another fantastic Black thriller.

 

Idris Elba and Beyonce Knowles joined forces to defeat a relentless stalker in the 2009 film, Obsessed. Other great Black thriller films featured on this list include Jackie Brown, When the Bough Breaks, and Enemy of the State.

 

Which Black thriller is your favorite? Give the best films a vote up and please add any good movies we may have missed.

 

If you like chills along with your thrills be sure to check out this list of the best Black horror films and best Black romance movies.

  • Training Day
    1

    Training Day

    Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn
    149 votes

    Training Day, a gripping and widely celebrated thriller, features the intense journey of a rookie cop, portrayed by Ethan Hawke, as he navigates the morally ambiguous world of law enforcement under the guidance of a seasoned detective, played by Denzel Washington. The film's captivating plot and Washington's Academy Award-winning performance have cemented its status as a classic within the genre. The exceptional exploration of the characters' complex dynamics and the gritty depiction of Los Angeles' criminal underbelly make Training Day a standout thriller.

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  • Get Out
    2

    Get Out

    Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Catherine Keener
    206 votes

    Get Out, a groundbreaking and critically acclaimed thriller directed by Jordan Peele, masterfully combines horror elements with incisive social commentary, following Chris, played by Daniel Kaluuya, as he uncovers a sinister secret behind his white girlfriend's seemingly welcoming family. This thought-provoking exploration of race and identity in America not only achieved immense box-office success but also earned Peele an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Get Out's compelling narrative and unique blend of suspense and social critique make it a must-watch thriller.

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  • Boyz n the Hood
    3

    Boyz n the Hood

    Laurence Fishburne, Ice Cube, Cuba Gooding
    171 votes

    Boyz n the Hood, a seminal thriller directed by John Singleton, chronicles the lives of three young African American men facing the harsh realities of gang violence and systemic racism in South Central Los Angeles. The talented ensemble cast, including Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, and Laurence Fishburne, delivers unforgettable performances in this authentic portrayal of urban life. Singleton's powerful storytelling and his ability to capture the complexity of the characters' struggles earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director, making Boyz n the Hood a classic within the thriller genre.

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  • New Jack City
    4

    New Jack City

    Wesley Snipes, Ice-T, Judd Nelson
    129 votes

    New Jack City, a gripping and influential crime thriller, features a standout performance by Wesley Snipes as Nino Brown, a ruthless drug lord striving to dominate New York City's criminal underworld. Directed by Mario Van Peebles, the film delves into the devastation caused by the crack cocaine epidemic, offering a unique perspective on both the criminals and the law enforcement officers determined to bring them down. With its strong performances, memorable dialogue, and unflinching portrayal of addiction's consequences, New Jack City has become a classic thriller.

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  • John Q
    5

    John Q

    Denzel Washington, Robert Duvall, James Woods
    119 votes

    John Q, a gripping and emotionally charged thriller, stars Denzel Washington as a desperate father who takes drastic measures to secure a life-saving heart transplant for his son. Directed by Nick Cassavetes, the film delves into the harrowing impact of the American healthcare system on ordinary families and offers a powerful commentary on social inequality. Washington's captivating performance, the film's intense pacing, and its timely exploration of healthcare issues have earned John Q a place among the most memorable thrillers.

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  • Juice
    6

    Juice

    Omar Epps, Tupac Shakur, Jermaine "Huggy" Hopkins
    145 votes

    Juice, a compelling thriller directed by Ernest R. Dickerson, follows the lives of four Harlem teenagers, played by Omar Epps, Tupac Shakur, Jermaine Hopkins, and Khalil Kain, as they are drawn into a dangerous spiral of violence and criminality. The film, which marked Tupac Shakur's impressive acting debut, is particularly notable for its authentic portrayal of urban life and the challenges faced by young African Americans. As the tension between the characters escalates, Juice offers a poignant exploration of the consequences of peer pressure, toxic masculinity, and the complexities of friendship within the thriller genre.

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  • Four Brothers
    7

    Four Brothers

    Mark Wahlberg, Tyrese Gibson, André Benjamin
    119 votes

    Four Brothers, an intense and action-packed thriller, follows the story of four adopted brothers, played by Mark Wahlberg, Tyrese Gibson, André Benjamin, and Garrett Hedlund, as they seek vengeance for their beloved adoptive mother's murder. Directed by John Singleton, the film expertly blends crime and family drama, exploring themes of loyalty, race, and the lengths individuals will go to protect their loved ones. The powerful performances by the ensemble cast and Singleton's gripping storytelling have made Four Brothers a popular and memorable entry in the thriller genre.

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  • Enemy of the State
    8

    Enemy of the State

    Will Smith, Gene Hackman, Jon Voight
    96 votes

    Enemy of the State, an exhilarating and high-stakes thriller, features Will Smith as a lawyer who becomes unwittingly entangled in a dangerous conspiracy involving government surveillance and assassination. Directed by Tony Scott, the film's gripping plot and timely themes involving privacy and government overreach have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. With its stellar cast, which includes Gene Hackman and Jon Voight, Enemy of the State delivers a thrilling and thought-provoking experience that remains relevant today.

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  • No Good Deed
    9

    No Good Deed

    Idris Elba, Taraji P. Henson, Leslie Bibb
    118 votes

    No Good Deed, a suspenseful and well-crafted thriller, stars Idris Elba as an escaped convict who terrorizes a suburban mother, played by Taraji P. Henson. Directed by Sam Miller, the film expertly builds tension through its claustrophobic setting and the dangerous cat-and-mouse game between its two central characters. Elba and Henson's captivating performances, combined with the film's shocking twists and turns, make No Good Deed a thrilling and engaging entry in the thriller genre.

  • The Perfect Guy
    10

    The Perfect Guy

    Sanaa Lathan, Michael Ealy, Morris Chestnut
    134 votes

    The Perfect Guy, a tense and intriguing thriller, centers on a successful lobbyist, played by Sanaa Lathan, who becomes entangled with a charming but dangerous man, portrayed by Michael Ealy. Directed by David M. Rosenthal, the film explores themes of obsession, control, and the dark side of romantic relationships. With its compelling performances, particularly from Ealy as the sinister antagonist, The Perfect Guy offers an intense and suspenseful experience for fans of the genre.

  • Fruitvale Station
    11

    Fruitvale Station

    Michael B. Jordan, Octavia Spencer, Melonie Diaz
    102 votes

    Fruitvale Station, a powerful and heart-wrenching thriller based on true events, tells the story of Oscar Grant, played by Michael B. Jordan, a young African American man who was tragically killed by police officers in the early hours of New Year's Day in 2009. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film offers an intimate and empathetic portrayal of Grant's final day, showcasing the depth of his relationships with his family and friends. The film's poignant storytelling, Jordan's stunning performance, and its unflinching examination of racial injustice have earned Fruitvale Station widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards.

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  • Dead Presidents
    12

    Dead Presidents

    Larenz Tate, Keith David, Chris Tucker
    95 votes

    Dead Presidents, a gritty and powerful crime thriller, follows the story of a young Vietnam War veteran, played by Larenz Tate, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous heist upon his return to the Bronx. Directed by the Hughes Brothers, the film's striking visual style and its unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities faced by African American veterans have made it a standout within the genre. The film's strong ensemble cast, which includes Keith David, Chris Tucker, and N'Bushe Wright, delivers memorable performances that further elevate Dead Presidents as a classic thriller.

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  • The Equalizer
    13

    The Equalizer

    Denzel Washington, Marton Csokas, Chloë Grace Moretz
    98 votes

    The Equalizer, a gripping and action-packed thriller, features Denzel Washington as a retired intelligence officer who uses his unique skills to help those in need, taking on a dangerous Russian crime syndicate in the process. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film showcases Washington's compelling presence and expertly choreographed action scenes, making it a thrilling and satisfying experience for fans of the genre. The film's success has led to a sequel, further cementing The Equalizer's status as a popular and engaging thriller.

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  • Out of Time
    14

    Out of Time

    Denzel Washington, Eva Mendes, Sanaa Lathan
    80 votes

    Out of Time, a fast-paced and suspenseful thriller, stars Denzel Washington as a small-town Florida police chief who becomes entangled in a web of murder, betrayal, and deception. Directed by Carl Franklin, the film's tight pacing, twist-filled plot, and Washington's compelling performance make it a thrilling and engaging experience for audiences. With its strong supporting cast, including Sanaa Lathan and Eva Mendes, Out of Time has earned its place as a popular and memorable entry in the thriller genre.

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  • When the Bough Breaks
    15

    When the Bough Breaks

    Morris Chestnut, Regina Hall, Romany Malco
    99 votes

    When the Bough Breaks, a suspenseful and intriguing thriller, centers on a married couple, played by Morris Chestnut and Regina Hall, who become entangled in a dangerous game of obsession and manipulation when they hire a young woman, portrayed by Jaz Sinclair, as their surrogate. Directed by Jon Cassar, the film delves into themes of betrayal, desire, and the lengths people will go to for the sake of family. With its complex characters and compelling performances, When the Bough Breaks offers a tense and captivating experience for thriller fans.

  • Us
    16

    Us

    Lupita Nyong'o, Winston Duke, Elisabeth Moss
    98 votes

    Us, a chilling and thought-provoking thriller from the mind of Jordan Peele, follows a family led by Lupita Nyong'o and Winston Duke as they are confronted by their eerie doppelgängers during a beach vacation. The film's unique premise, suspenseful atmosphere, and compelling performance by Nyong'o establish it as a standout within the genre. Peele's masterful direction and the film's exploration of identity and societal divisions have cemented Us as a modern thriller classic.

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  • Lakeview Terrace
    17

    Lakeview Terrace

    Samuel L. Jackson, Patrick Wilson, Kerry Washington
    83 votes

    Lakeview Terrace, a tense and captivating thriller, follows an interracial couple, played by Patrick Wilson and Kerry Washington, as they move into a new neighborhood and face escalating harassment from their racist neighbor, a police officer portrayed by Samuel L. Jackson. Directed by Neil LaBute, the film presents a gripping examination of racial tensions, power struggles, and the dark side of suburban life. The strong performances by the lead actors, combined with the film's unsettling atmosphere, make Lakeview Terrace a thrilling and memorable experience for audiences.

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  • Shaft
    18

    Shaft

    Samuel L. Jackson, Vanessa Williams, Jeffrey Wright
    73 votes

    Shaft, a stylish and iconic action thriller, features Samuel L. Jackson as a fearless private detective who navigates the dangerous streets of New York City in order to solve crimes and protect the innocent. Directed by John Singleton, the film serves as a modern update to the classic 1971 film of the same name, with Jackson's charismatic performance and the film's slick visual style paying homage to the original while creating a fresh and engaging experience for audiences. Shaft's combination of thrilling action, memorable characters, and timely themes has solidified its status as a classic thriller.

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  • Safe House
    19

    Safe House

    Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds, Vera Farmiga
    68 votes

    Safe House, an exhilarating and action-packed thriller, features Denzel Washington as a rogue CIA operative who is brought to a safe house by a young and inexperienced agent, played by Ryan Reynolds, only to find themselves under attack by deadly forces. Directed by Daniel Espinosa, the film delivers expertly choreographed action sequences and a gripping exploration of the complex relationship between the two protagonists. With its stellar cast and relentless pacing, Safe House has earned its place as a popular and thrilling experience for audiences.

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  • Collateral
    20

    Collateral

    Tom Cruise, Jamie Foxx, Jada Pinkett Smith
    69 votes

    Collateral, a gripping and stylish thriller directed by Michael Mann, follows a taxi driver, played by Jamie Foxx, who is forced to drive a dangerous hitman, portrayed by Tom Cruise, through Los Angeles as he carries out a series of assassinations. The film's riveting plot and exceptional performances from the lead actors create a tense and unforgettable experience for viewers. Collateral's atmospheric setting, expertly crafted action sequences, and exploration of morality and survival have solidified its status as a modern thriller classic.

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  • Obsessed
    21

    Obsessed

    Idris Elba, Beyoncé, Ali Larter
    105 votes

    Obsessed, a suspenseful and engrossing thriller, stars Idris Elba as a successful businessman who becomes the target of a dangerous office stalker, played by Ali Larter, threatening to destroy his marriage to Sharon, portrayed by Beyoncé Knowles. Directed by Steve Shill, the film delves into themes of obsession, infidelity, and the lengths individuals will go to protect their loved ones. With its captivating performances and tense atmosphere, Obsessed offers a thrilling and engaging experience for fans of the genre.

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  • The Negotiator
    22

    The Negotiator

    Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, David Morse
    63 votes

    The Negotiator, a thrilling and intense drama, stars Samuel L. Jackson as a skilled hostage negotiator who finds himself framed for murder and corruption, forcing him to take hostages in a desperate attempt to prove his innocence. Directed by F. Gary Gray, the film expertly builds tension through its high-stakes premise and the battle of wits between Jackson's character and his fellow negotiator, played by Kevin Spacey. The Negotiator's engaging plot, superb performances, and taut pacing have made it a highly regarded entry in the thriller genre.

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  • In Too Deep
    23

    In Too Deep

    Omar Epps, LL Cool J, Nia Long
    76 votes

    In Too Deep, a compelling and intense crime thriller, follows an undercover cop, played by Omar Epps, who becomes dangerously entangled in the world of a powerful crime lord, portrayed by LL Cool J. Directed by Michael Rymer, the film offers a gripping examination of the blurred lines between duty and temptation, as well as the psychological toll of working undercover. With its strong performances and authentic portrayal of the criminal underworld, In Too Deep has become a standout within the thriller genre.

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  • Déjà Vu
    24

    Déjà Vu

    Denzel Washington, Val Kilmer, Jim Caviezel
    78 votes

    Déjà Vu, a thrilling and mind-bending experience, stars Denzel Washington as an ATF agent who discovers a top-secret government program that allows him to travel back in time to prevent a catastrophic terrorist attack. Directed by Tony Scott, the film expertly weaves elements of science fiction and suspense, creating a unique and captivating narrative. The compelling premise, Washington's engaging performance, and the film's exploration of time travel and its consequences make Déjà Vu a memorable entry in the thriller genre.

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  • Black and Blue
    25

    Black and Blue

    Naomie Harris, Tyrese Gibson, Frank Grillo
    27 votes

    Black and Blue, an action-packed and thought-provoking thriller, stars Naomie Harris as a rookie police officer who captures the murder of a young drug dealer by corrupt cops on her body camera, forcing her to go on the run and fight for her life. Directed by Deon Taylor, the film tackles themes of police corruption, racial injustice, and the struggle for truth and accountability. With its powerful performances, particularly from Harris, and its timely exploration of important social issues, Black and Blue has resonated with audiences and critics alike.

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  • Jackie Brown
    26

    Jackie Brown

    Pam Grier, Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Forster
    84 votes

    Jackie Brown, a stylish and engaging thriller directed by Quentin Tarantino, follows a flight attendant, played by Pam Grier, who becomes entangled in a dangerous plot involving gun smuggling and double-crossing. Adapted from Elmore Leonard's novel, the film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Forster, and Robert De Niro. Jackie Brown's intricate plot, Tarantino's signature dialogue, and the film's exploration of loyalty and survival have solidified its status as a classic thriller.

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  • Ricochet
    27

    Ricochet

    Denzel Washington, John Lithgow, Ice-T
    60 votes

    Ricochet, a gripping and intense thriller, stars Denzel Washington as a respected district attorney who becomes the target of a vengeful criminal, portrayed by John Lithgow, that he helped put behind bars years earlier. Directed by Russell Mulcahy, the film expertly builds tension through its high-stakes premise and the dangerous cat-and-mouse game between the two central characters. With its strong performances and relentless pacing, Ricochet has earned its place as a thrilling and memorable entry in the genre.

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  • Deep Cover
    28

    Deep Cover

    Laurence Fishburne, Jeff Goldblum, Victoria Dillard
    58 votes

    Deep Cover, a gritty and powerful crime thriller, follows an undercover police officer, played by Laurence Fishburne, who becomes entrenched in the dangerous world of drug trafficking and organized crime. Directed by Bill Duke, the film offers an unflinching examination of the moral complexities and challenges faced by those working undercover. With its strong performances, particularly from Fishburne and co-star Jeff Goldblum, and its authentic portrayal of the criminal underworld, Deep Cover has become a classic within the thriller genre.

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  • BlacKkKlansman
    29

    BlacKkKlansman

    John David Washington, Adam Driver, Laura Harrier
    19 votes

    BlacKkKlansman, a compelling and thought-provoking thriller directed by Spike Lee, is based on the true story of Ron Stallworth, an African American police officer played by John David Washington, who infiltrates the Ku Klux Klan with the help of a white colleague, portrayed by Adam Driver. The film masterfully blends elements of suspense and social commentary, offering a unique and timely exploration of race relations in America. BlacKkKlansman's engaging plot and powerful performances, combined with Lee's signature storytelling style, have earned the film widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards.

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  • The Equalizer 2
    30

    The Equalizer 2

    Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Ashton Sanders
    14 votes

    The Equalizer 2, a pulse-pounding and enthralling thriller, sees the return of Denzel Washington as Robert McCall, a former CIA operative who uses his unique skills to seek justice for the oppressed. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, this sequel delivers even more suspense and action than its predecessor, as McCall must confront his past while avenging the murder of a close friend. The film's thrilling narrative, combined with Washington's magnetic performance, has solidified The Equalizer 2's place as a popular and highly-regarded thriller.

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