You may have noticed, but our country is in the middle of a second civil rights movement right now. Following the death of George Floyd at the hands of police brutality, the nation has taken to the streets to protest and fight to end racial inequality and discrimination, and teach others why racism is still prevalent in our country.
If you’re like us, you may be looking for films out there to watch to inspire us, connect with us, and help us as we navigate this tumultuous time in our country’s history.
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We have, here, what we believe to be the top 10 movies about racial inequality, civil rights, and racism, that will emotionally impact you in many ways:
Remember the Titans
This film brings the topic of racism to audiences of all ages through sports. This Disney film is a classic for a reason: it is powerful, tackles real issues, and it is an amazing film.
12 Years a Slave
Steve McQueen’s Oscar-winning film about a free man forced into slavery is both parts beautiful and horrifying. It doesn’t pull any punches in depicting how African-Americans were treated. Chiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong’o are stand-outs in a film packed with a ton of talent.
The Big Sick
While not focusing on the issue of racism, this semi-autobiographical film about Kumail Nanjiani’s experience with his wife does show the kinds of micro-aggressions and racial stereotyping that a South Asian immigrant can experience in a post-9/11 world.
Malcolm X
Denzel Washington turns in a tour-de-force performance in Spike Lee’s biopic. The controversial civil rights figure takes center stage in this powerful film about fighting for your rights.
13th
Ava DuVernay’s incredible documentary is a must-watch for anyone confused as to why people say slavery still exists in our country, despite the 13th amendment.
Do the Right Thing
One of Spike Lee’s greatest films is a classic for a reason. It presents a story of race and racism in a new way, all while having some incredible and daring visuals.
Fruitvale Station
Before giving he gave us Black Panther, Ryan Coogler made his first feature-film with this stirring story of the last day of Oscar Grant’s life. Grant was a young, black man who lived in Oakland, and was killed by a BART officer on New Year’s Day in 2009. It also was our first look into the talent of Michael B. Jordan.
Selma
While not showing the true horror of racism and prejudice during the civil rights movement, this film about Martin Luther King Jr.’s peaceful march is anchored by a mesmerizing performance by David Oyelowo as MLK.
Loving
This film is based on the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving. The interracial couple had to take their union all the way to the Supreme Court, where they changed the world.
Get Out
Jordan Peele brought horror to the spotlight with this socially-driven tale of terror. Exploring the experiences of a black man through the lens of horror gives this film a grounded feeling of fear. It was nominated for several Oscars and cemented Peele as an auteur to watch from now on.
All of these movies tell a story that is important, and there are countless more not here. We encourage all our readers to take this time to learn, listen, and explore these stories that we may not know. These films can educate us to be better, do better, and make the change this country needs. Racial inequality can no longer exist.
For all your movie recommendations and more, be sure to check back in here with ScoopHash.