The Best Hood Movies Of All Time
- Tyrin Turner, Jada Pinkett Smith, Vonte Sweet
A young street hustler attempts to escape the rigors and temptations of his life in a Los Angeles ghetto, while confronting the consequences of his actions. The raw portrayal of urban life combined with powerful performances make this movie an unforgettable exploration of societal struggles.
More Menace II Society- #253 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #12 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #421 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- Laurence Fishburne, Ice Cube, Cuba Gooding
A group of friends navigate the challenges and hardships of growing up in South Central Los Angeles, as they strive to escape the violence and despair that surrounds them. The movie's raw storytelling, powerful performances, and authentic portrayal of urban life make it a groundbreaking masterpiece in African-American cinema.
More Boyz n the Hood- #1 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #101 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #11 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Omar Epps, Tupac Shakur, Jermaine "Huggy" Hopkins
Four Harlem teens navigate friendship, love, and loyalty as they're drawn into the dangerous world of crime and violence. This gritty urban drama showcases strong performances from a young cast, including Tupac Shakur's captivating debut in a complex role.
More Juice- #6 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #5 of 76 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- #50 of 98 onThe Best Movies of 1992
- Ice Cube, Chris Tucker, Nia Long
A group of friends hilariously navigate their way through the trials and tribulations of life in South Central Los Angeles, all while trying to avoid trouble on a seemingly ordinary Friday. This classic comedy showcases relatable humor, memorable catchphrases, and standout performances by Ice Cube and Chris Tucker, making it an enduring fan favorite.
More Friday- #524 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #178 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #157 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- Wood Harris, Mekhi Phifer, Kevin Carroll
A young man navigates the dangerous world of Harlem's drug trade, navigating betrayal and loyalty while striving for a better life. This gritty crime drama features powerful performances, an authentic atmosphere, and a compelling exploration of ambition and morality in the face of adversity.
More Paid in Full- #32 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #7 of 61 onThe Very Best Black Movies Of The 2000s
- #5 of 142 onThe Very Best Movies About Life in the Ghetto
- Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn
A rookie cop spends his first day on the job with a seasoned narcotics officer, only to realize that his new mentor is not who he seems, leading to an intense 24-hour journey through the dark side of law enforcement. The movie's gritty realism and powerhouse performances from Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke create a gripping portrayal of police corruption and moral ambiguity.
More Training Day- #690 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #7 of 113 onThe Best Movies Of 2001
- #71 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Glenn Plummer, Byron Keith Minns, Lexie Bigham
A devoted father and ex-con finds himself caught in a dangerous cycle of gang life, desperately seeking redemption and a way to save his son from following the same path. The movie's raw portrayal of life on the streets combined with its powerful message about breaking generational cycles makes it an impactful and unforgettable experience.
More South Central- #97 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #78 of 98 onThe Best Movies of 1992
- #32 of 35 onThe Best Movies About Getting A Second Chance
- Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor
A Harlem drug lord rises to power in the 1970s by smuggling heroin into the United States, while a determined detective aims to bring him down. The movie's greatness lies in its gritty portrayal of real-life events and powerful performances by Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe.
More American Gangster- #9 of 94 onThe 90+ Best Mafia Movies Of All Time
- #128 of 190 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #19 of 89 onThe Greatest African American Biopics
- O'Shea Jackson, Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell
A gripping biopic that chronicles the rise and fall of the groundbreaking hip-hop group N.W.A, delving into their impact on music, culture, and racial tension in 1980s America. The film's raw performances, powerful storytelling, and unapologetic portrayal of controversial themes make it a compelling watch for fans of both music history and social commentary.
- #33 of 99 onThe Best Period Movies Set in the '80s
- #110 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #5 of 89 onThe Greatest African American Biopics
- Ice Cube, Mike Epps, Justin Pierce
A young man's life is turned upside down as he tries to survive living with his eccentric relatives in the suburbs while avoiding a vengeful neighborhood bully. The film delivers non-stop laughs through its witty dialogue, relatable characters, and hilarious situations that keep audiences entertained from start to finish.
More Next Friday- #513 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #28 of 93 onThe 85+ Best Stoner Comedies Ever
- #36 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Janet Jackson, Tupac Shakur, Regina King
A poetic hairdresser and a passionate mailman embark on a transformative road trip through California, discovering love, friendship, and the power of words along the way. The movie captivates audiences with its raw emotion, memorable performances from Janet Jackson and Tupac Shakur, and thought-provoking exploration of life's complexities.
More Poetic Justice- #3 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #14 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #11 of 121 onThe 100+ Best Movies With Black Female Leads
- Duane Martin, Leon, Tupac Shakur
A promising high school basketball star navigates the challenges of inner-city life while being torn between a charismatic drug dealer and a former athlete turned security guard, both vying to be his mentor. The movie's gritty portrayal of urban struggles, combined with its electrifying soundtrack and captivating performances, creates an unforgettable experience that resonates with audiences.
More Above the Rim- #49 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #26 of 68 onThe Best High School Sports Movies
- #21 of 76 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox
Four close friends, fueled by desperation and a desire for a better life, band together to execute a series of thrilling bank heists in this gripping crime drama. The film's raw emotions, strong performances from the leading ladies, and unapologetic portrayal of societal issues make it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
More Set It Off- #20 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #67 of 117 onThe Best Movies Of 1996
- #130 of 185 onMovies With The Best Soundtracks
- Nas, DMX, Taral Hicks
A gritty urban drama follows the lives of two friends as they navigate through crime, loyalty, and betrayal in a world filled with temptations and consequences. The movie's raw portrayal of street life combined with its memorable soundtrack creates an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
More Belly - Wesley Snipes, Ice-T, Judd Nelson
In the midst of a brutal drug epidemic, an ambitious crime lord ascends to power while a determined detective and his team vow to bring him down. This gritty urban drama boasts powerful performances from its talented cast and delivers a compelling examination of the devastating impact of drugs on society.
More New Jack City- #305 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #17 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #35 of 86 onThe Best Movies Of 1991, Ranked
- Larenz Tate, Keith David, Chris Tucker
A Vietnam War veteran struggles to readjust to civilian life, only to be drawn into a dangerous heist with former comrades-in-arms. The gripping narrative and powerful performances make this film an unforgettable exploration of the psychological impact of war on young men.
More Dead Presidents- #54 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #8 of 20 onWar Movies That Are Actually About The Aftermath
- #71 of 86 onThe Best Juneteenth Movies
- Ice Cube, Mike Epps, John Witherspoon
Two cousins work nights at a local mall as security guards, dealing with thieves and their meddling landlord in this hilarious holiday comedy. The film's witty dialogue, memorable characters, and festive atmosphere make it an entertaining watch for fans of the genre.
More Friday After Next- #87 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #121 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #484 of 630 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- Tyrese Gibson, Omar Gooding, Adrienne-Joi Johnson
A young man living in South Central Los Angeles struggles with the responsibilities of adulthood while trying to navigate relationships, family dynamics, and his own self-discovery. The raw and authentic portrayal of urban life combined with powerful performances from the cast make this film a compelling exploration of personal growth and resilience.
More Baby Boy- #5 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #23 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #63 of 86 onThe Best Juneteenth Movies
- Omar Epps, Taye Diggs, Richard T. Jones
A group of friends reminisce about their shared past while preparing for an upcoming wedding, revealing the hilarious and heartfelt moments that shaped their bond. The movie's genuine portrayal of friendship, nostalgia, and personal growth makes it a relatable and heartwarming experience for audiences.
More The Wood- #78 of 99 onThe Best Period Movies Set in the '80s
- #10 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #23 of 76 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- Sean Penn, Robert Duvall, Maria Conchita Alonso
A young artist navigates the challenges of love, friendship, and ambition while discovering her own unique voice in a world saturated with color. This visually stunning film captivates audiences with its vibrant cinematography and heartfelt exploration of self-expression and personal growth.
More Colors- #28 of 122 onThe Best Movies Of 1988
- #25 of 55 onThe Best Movies About Corrupt Cops
- #4 of 16 onThe Most Powerful Movies About Police Brutality
- 50 Cent, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Walter Alza
A young drug dealer turns his life around to pursue a career in rap music, inspired by the harsh reality of his upbringing and the desire for a better future. The raw and authentic portrayal of the protagonist's journey, accompanied by an electrifying soundtrack, makes this movie a compelling watch for fans of gritty dramas and hip-hop culture.
- #157 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #84 of 93 onThe Best Movies With The Most F-Bombs
- #14 of 61 onThe Very Best Black Movies Of The 2000s
- Terrence Howard, Anthony Anderson, Taryn Manning
A Memphis hustler with dreams of becoming a rapper navigates the gritty world of crime and music, hoping to find redemption through his art. This raw and powerful film showcases incredible performances, especially by Terrence Howard, and an unforgettable soundtrack that captures the essence of its characters' struggles.
More Hustle & Flow- #118 of 143 onThe Best Movies of 2005
- #78 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #112 of 173 onThe Best Movies About Music
- 23
Shottas
Wyclef Jean, DJ Khaled, Ky-Mani MarleyA group of young Jamaican men navigate the violent world of crime and music as they rise to power in Kingston and Miami, testing their loyalty and friendships along the way. The movie's raw depiction of life in the gritty streets, combined with its pulsating reggae soundtrack, creates an immersive experience that keeps audiences captivated.
- Method Man, Redman, Obba Babatunde
Two underachieving stoners use their deceased friend's ashes as fertilizer, leading to a magical marijuana plant that helps them ace their college entrance exams and embark on a series of hilarious misadventures. The film's unique blend of comedy, chemistry between the lead actors, and memorable catchphrases make it an entertaining cult classic for fans of the genre.
More How High- #11 of 93 onThe 85+ Best Stoner Comedies Ever
- #135 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #561 of 630 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Tracey Cherelle Jones
In this satirical comedy, a young man growing up in the 'hood learns valuable life lessons while navigating love, crime, and family dynamics. The movie's clever humor and biting social commentary make it an unforgettable cult classic that will leave you laughing out loud.
- Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee
In the midst of a sweltering summer day, racial tensions escalate among residents and business owners in a diverse Brooklyn neighborhood, culminating in an explosive conflict. Spike Lee's masterful direction and poignant social commentary make this film a powerful exploration of race relations that remains relevant today.
More Do the Right Thing- #293 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #30 of 83 onThe Best Movies Of 1989, Ranked
- #95 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- Sean Nelson, Giancarlo Esposito, Samuel L. Jackson
A preteen boy who runs drugs for gangsters becomes inspired by his father's chess lessons to come up with a brilliant plan to extricate himself and his drug-addicted sister from their hopeless lives. The underrated movie received critical acclaim for its realistic glimpse of life in New York City's projects during the crack epidemic.
More Fresh- #123 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #481 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #29 of 76 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- Omar Epps, LL Cool J, Nia Long
A rookie cop goes undercover to infiltrate a ruthless gang, but as he gets closer to the truth, he finds himself questioning his own identity and loyalties. This movie captivates audiences with its intense plot twists, stellar performances by the lead actors, and an unflinching exploration of the blurred lines between good and evil.
More In Too Deep- #115 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #105 of 142 onThe Very Best Movies About Life in the Ghetto
- #23 of 113 onThe 100+ Best Black Thriller Movies, Ranked
- T.I., Lauren London, Mykelti Williamson
Four Atlanta teens navigate the challenges of adolescence and their working-class neighborhood while seeking a better future through roller-skating. With its authentic portrayal of friendship, love, and ambition, this film captivates audiences through relatable characters and a nostalgic soundtrack.
More ATL- #29 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #2 of 61 onThe Very Best Black Movies Of The 2000s
- #47 of 142 onThe Very Best Movies About Life in the Ghetto
- Mark Wahlberg, Tyrese Gibson, André Benjamin
When their adoptive mother is murdered during a grocery store holdup, four siblings reunite to seek revenge and uncover the truth behind her death. This action-packed drama stands out with its raw emotion, strong performances, and an engaging story about brotherhood and justice.
More Four Brothers- #4 of 9 onJohn Singleton: Movies Directed By John Singleton
- #136 of 468 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #16 of 143 onThe Best Movies of 2005