The Greatest Black Characters In Film History
- 1Black Panther
The groundbreaking superhero from the Marvel Comics universe and the star of Ryan Coogler's 2018 blockbuster, this African prince turned king must protect his hi-tech, hidden nation and assume the mantle of Black Panther. With his unique vibranium suit, he battles threats both internal and external, balancing tradition with progress in a world that doesn't always understand the true depth of his power.
- 2The Shawshank Redemption
The wise and resourceful character from Stephen King's novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption was brilliantly adapted for the screen in Frank Darabont's 1994 film, The Shawshank Redemption. Serving as the film's narrator, he's an inmate who understands the intricacies of prison life and develops a lifelong friendship with the protagonist, all while retaining his sense of hope and dignity.
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- 3Pulp Fiction
A hitman with a flair for biblical recitations, this iconic character from Quentin Tarantino's 1994 film, Pulp Fiction, undergoes a drastic transformation after surviving imminent death. His newfound spirituality leads him to quit the world of crime, but not before dispensing his own unique brand of wisdom and laying vengeance upon the wicked with a .45-caliber pistol.
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- 4The Incredibles
With supercool powers that can freeze anything (and a snappy sense of style), this fast-talking sidekick in Pixar's The Incredibles (2004) provides a refreshing blend of comic relief and heroism. As the best friend of the main character, he's always ready to lend a hand (or an icicle) to help save the day.
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- 5Blade
Debuting in 1998, this hybrid vampire-human introduced a darker, more violent take on the Marvel Comics universe. Utilizing his incredible combat skills and unique weaponry, he hunts down evil vampires as he comes to terms with his dual nature, ultimately walking a fine line between being humanity's savior and its potential doom.
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- 6Men in Black, Men in Black II
As an energetic and inventive presence in the 1997 film Men in Black and its sequels, this quick-witted New York City cop is recruited to join a secretive organization tasked with maintaining order among extraterrestrial visitors to Earth. His street smarts and unorthodox methods make him an indispensable asset to the team and lend humor and momentum to these science fiction comedies.
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- 7The Avengers
The ultimate super-spy and a linchpin of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this S.H.I.E.L.D. director ties together Earth's mightiest heroes in their fight against evil. In both comics and films, his cunning and experience make him the backbone of many of the most important operations, as he juggles his responsibilities with skill and a healthy dose of Samuel L. Jackson's trademark charisma.
More Nick Fury - 8Rocky IV, Rocky, Rocky II
Appearing first as an antagonist and later as a mentor and friend in the original Rocky films, this flamboyant boxer is inspired by real-life legends like Muhammad Ali. A symbol of pride, competitiveness, and the spirit of the American dream, his eventual redemption in Rocky III seals his status as one of the most memorable characters in sports movie history.
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- 9Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode III, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
Charming, suave, and an expert at navigating the morally gray galaxy of George Lucas's original Star Wars trilogy, this character stands out as a fan favorite for his dual roles as a gambler and rebel alliance hero. Originally introduced in The Empire Strikes Back, he helps our heroes escape Cloud City before redeeming himself in Return of the Jedi by aiding the rebellion's final push against the Empire.
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- 10
Miles Morales
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-VerseIntroduced in the 2018 animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, this Afro-Latino teenager takes up the mantle of Spider-Man after the original superhero's death. Faced with powerful adversaries and newfound abilities, he navigates family, friendship, and his own sense of identity, all while saving the world from a multiverse-threatening catastrophe.
- 11Django Unchained
As the central character in Quentin Tarantino's spaghetti western-inspired film Django Unchained, he embarks on a brutal journey to rescue his wife from a cruel plantation owner. This freed slave-turned-bounty hunter relies on his exceptional gunslinging skills and iron determination to dismantle the dehumanizing horrors of the pre-Civil War South.
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- 12Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
As a top-ranked Jedi Master in George Lucas's Star Wars prequels, this stern, no-nonsense character represents the best aspects of the Jedi Order. A formidable figure wielding his distinctive purple lightsaber, Windu's tactical acumen and unwavering dedication to peace and justice ultimately lead him to face off against Emperor Palpatine in a dramatic showdown.
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- 13The Green Mile
At once brokenhearted and profoundly mysterious, this gentle giant from The Green Mile (1999) has an uncanny ability to heal and empathize with others—even the prison guards charged with his execution. His emotional suffering and ultimate sacrifice offer a deeply affecting portrayal of the inhumanity of capital punishment.
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- 14Malcolm X
In this 1992 biopic directed by Spike Lee, we see a dynamic portrayal of the influential civil rights leader, exploring his early life, conversion to Islam, and role within the Nation of Islam. The film humanizes him by delving into his personal relationships and the evolution of his ideas—capturing his advocacy for self-defense, black empowerment, and the pursuit of justice.
- 15Beverly Hills Cop
This wise-cracking, fast-talking Detroit detective from the 1984 film Beverly Hills Cop and its two sequels became a pop culture icon of the 1980s. His resourcefulness, wit, and unwavering determination to crack the case make him one of the most endearing and memorable characters in the action-comedy genre.
- 16The Matrix
As the wise, enigmatic mentor in the influential 1999 sci-fi film The Matrix and its sequels, this character is responsible for opening the protagonist's eyes to the true nature of reality. Adept at martial arts and an inspiring leader of the human resistance against robotic overlords, he's instantly recognizable for his black trench coat, sunglasses, and deeply philosophical musings.
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- 17
Benjamin Buford "Bubba" Blue
Forrest GumpA sweet but simple country boy from Alabama in the 1994 film Forrest Gump, this character has an encyclopedic knowledge of shrimp and dreams of starting his own business after completing his tour of duty in Vietnam. Despite his tragic death, his friendship with the protagonist endures, inspiring the founding of the successful Bubba Gump Shrimp Company.
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- 18Black Panther
This complex and captivating Marvel villain from the 2018 Black Panther film has a deep-seated rage fueled by his experiences of systemic racism and the painful loss of his father. Though his methods are extreme, his goal of empowering oppressed people across the globe forces the protagonist to reassess his own worldview, blurring the lines between hero and villain.
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- 19Lethal Weapon 4, Lethal Weapon, Lethal Weapon 2
As part of the iconic buddy cop duo in the Lethal Weapon film series, this grounded, by-the-book LAPD detective plays the perfect foil to his reckless partner. Balancing action-packed heroics with heartfelt family moments, this character, who's always on the verge of retirement, becomes an enduring symbol of perseverance and dedication to justice.
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- 20X-Men, X-Men: The Last Stand, X2
As one of the key members of the X-Men, this Marvel Comics character can control the weather and create powerful storms at will. First appearing on the big screen in 2000, she's been a stalwart presence in the franchise, embodying strength, leadership, and a larger-than-life sense of purpose.
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- 21Coming to America
This charming, naive prince from the 1988 comedy Coming to America leaves his luxurious life in the fictional African nation of Zamunda to seek love and freedom in New York City. Experiencing culture shock, hilarious misadventures, and eventually true love, he's a shining example of humility and the power of individual choice.
- 22Star Trek
As a groundbreaking female character who played an essential role in the original Star Trek television series (starting in 1966) and its subsequent films, this communications officer is known for her intelligence, grace, and pioneering spirit. Her onscreen presence laid the groundwork for more diverse casting in Hollywood, while she inspired generations of viewers with her portrayal of a strong, capable woman in a male-dominated field.
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- 23Training Day
As a corrupt LAPD narcotics detective in the 2001 film Training Day, this character is a deeply unsettling glimpse into the dark side of law enforcement. Heavily influenced by streets and greed, his twisted understanding of morality and penchant for manipulation lead him down a violent and tragic path.
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This world-weary, yet highly intuitive cop from the tension-filled 1995 thriller Se7en brings a wealth of experience and insight to the hunt for a heinous serial killer. Despite being on the verge of retirement, he musters the strength and determination to see the case through, becoming a memorable and complex symbol of resilience in the face of evil.
- 25The Help
The feisty, proud, and acerbic housemaid from the 2011 film The Help has an unsurpassed skill for cooking, which she uses as a form of both comfort and rebellion against her racist employers. Through her friendship with fellow maid Aibileen, she finds the courage to share her story and challenge the status quo in 1960s Mississippi.
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- 26The Princess and the Frog
As Disney's first African American princess, this hardworking, ambitious young woman dreams of owning her own restaurant in 1920s New Orleans. In the 2009 animated film The Princess and the Frog, she navigates both real-world challenges and magical adventures, ultimately learning the importance of love, family, and finding balance in life.
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- 27In the Heat of the Night
First introduced in the groundbreaking 1967 film In the Heat of the Night, this Philadelphia detective finds himself embroiled in a racially charged murder investigation in the deeply segregated Mississippi. His intelligence, dignity, and unyielding sense of justice make him an unforgettable character in the face of adversity—and one who continues to challenge and inspire audiences to this day.
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- 28Ghostbusters, Ghostbusters II
As the fourth member of the titular team in the 1984 classic Ghostbusters, this grounded, pragmatic character brings a fresh perspective to the supernatural antics of the story. Though initially skeptical about the paranormal, he quickly embraces his role in saving New York City from otherworldly threats and serves as an essential element of the team's success.
- 29
Sister Mary Clarence
Sister ActDisguising herself as a nun in the 1992 comedy Sister Act, this brassy lounge singer brings life, joy, and music to an ailing convent while hiding from her mobster ex-boyfriend. Her irreverent but lovable personality helps transform the lives of those around her, revitalizing the choir and ultimately proving that faith and friendship can work miracles.
- 30The Hunger Games
In the deadly world of The Hunger Games (2012), this innocent but resourceful young tribute forms a bond with the protagonist, showcasing the ongoing tragedy of children caught in the horrors of an oppressive government's brutal games. Her tragic fate inspires a renewed sense of purpose and rebellion among her fellow competitors.
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