10 Must-Watch Movies to Celebrate Juneteenth
Posted on: Jun 13, 2024
Photo Credit: Michael Scott Milner // ShutterstockAs Juneteenth approaches, it’s time to honor the history, culture and contributions of African Americans. This significant holiday commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States, celebrating freedom and reflecting on the long journey towards equality. To mark this important occasion, we’ve curated a list of 10 impactful movies that not only entertain but also educate and inspire. These films explore themes of resilience, heritage and the ongoing fight for justice, making them perfect additions to your Juneteenth celebration.
Block Party (2022)
Historical Significance: While not directly linked to Juneteenth, Block Party captures the essence of community and resilience, echoing the spirit of Juneteenth celebrations.
Diversity in Storytelling: This heartwarming tale follows recent Harvard graduate Keke McQueen, 23, as she navigates her journey from her hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, to her dream job in Atlanta. Along the way, Keke discovers the vibrant culture and diverse voices within her community.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: Block Party strikes a chord with audiences, showcasing the power of love and sacrifice. Keke’s decision to put her career on hold to save her Grandma Janice’s block party not only highlights the importance of family, but also celebrates the resilience of small communities.
Where to Watch: Keep an eye out for screenings of Block Party in local theaters or community events. Alternatively, explore streaming options like BET+ and Prime Video.
Selma (2014)
Historical Significance: Selma chronicles the historic 1965 voting rights marches from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, which played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Ava DuVernay, Selma offers a powerful portrayal of African American resilience and activism, showcasing diverse perspectives within the struggle for equality.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: This film sparked important conversations about the ongoing fight for racial justice and voting rights, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
The Color Purple (1985)
Historical Significance: Based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Color Purple explores the lives of African American women in the early 20th century South, touching on themes of resilience and sisterhood.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Steven Spielberg, this film offers a poignant portrayal of the intersectionality of race, gender and class, showcasing diverse narratives within the African American community.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: The Color Purple sparked important discussions about domestic violence, sexism and racial oppression, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and popular culture.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
Get Out (2017)
Historical Significance: Get Out subverts the horror genre to explore the insidious nature of racism in contemporary America, offering a timely commentary on the Black experience.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Jordan Peele, this film presents a unique perspective on racial tensions, blending social commentary with elements of suspense and satire.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: Get Out had a profound impact on audiences and culture by igniting important conversations about racism and cultural appropriation, compelling viewers to face the uncomfortable truths about our society.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
Fruitvale Station (2013)
Historical Significance: Based on the true story of Oscar Grant, Fruitvale Station explores police brutality and systemic racism in America, highlighting the urgent need for social justice.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Ryan Coogler, this film offers a powerful portrayal of the human cost of racial injustice, shedding light on the experiences of African American communities.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: Fruitvale Station had a profound impact on audiences and culture, igniting discussions on police accountability and racial profiling that reverberated globally.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
Hidden Figures (2016)
Historical Significance: Hidden Figures celebrates the untold contributions of African American women mathematicians to the space race, highlighting their resilience and perseverance in the face of discrimination.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Theodore Melfi, this film showcases the diverse talents and achievements of African American women, reclaiming their place in history.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: Hidden Figures inspired audiences with its uplifting story of triumph over adversity, sparking important conversations about representation and inclusion in STEM fields.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
Moonlight (2016)
Historical Significance: Moonlight offers a poignant exploration of identity, sexuality and race in America, capturing the nuances of the African American experience with sensitivity and depth.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Barry Jenkins, this film presents a complex and multi-dimensional portrayal of Black masculinity, challenging stereotypes and societal expectations.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: Moonlight sparked important conversations about LGBTQ+ representation and intersectional identity, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Historical Significance: Set on the hottest day of the summer in Brooklyn, Do the Right Thing explores racial tensions and police brutality in urban America, offering a searing commentary on race relations.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Spike Lee, this film presents a kaleidoscope of diverse characters and perspectives, highlighting the complexities of race and ethnicity in a multicultural society.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: Do the Right Thing initiated discussions about race, representation and social justice, becoming a cultural touchstone for generations.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
12 Years a Slave (2013)
Historical Significance: Based on the true story of Solomon Northup, 12 Years a Slave chronicles his harrowing journey from freedom to captivity, offering a stark portrayal of slavery in America.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Steve McQueen, this film presents a visceral and unflinching look at the brutality of slavery, amplifying diverse voices and experiences.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: 12 Years a Slave sparked important conversations about the legacy of slavery and systemic racism, prompting audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s past.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms and DVD/Blu-ray.
Miss Juneteenth (2020)
Historical Significance: Named after the Juneteenth holiday, Miss Juneteenth follows a former beauty queen preparing her daughter for the same pageant, exploring themes of heritage, identity and community.
Diversity in Storytelling: Directed by Channing Godfrey Peoples.
Impact on Audiences and Culture: Miss Juneteenth has had a significant impact by authentically portraying African American life, empowering Black women, and educating audiences about the historical importance of Juneteenth. Its critical acclaim and success have fostered greater appreciation for African American culture and inspired more diverse storytelling in cinema. The film has also contributed to the increased visibility and recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday.
Where to Watch: Available on various streaming platforms.
No matter what film you choose this month, all of these not only focus on celebrating Black history and culture but also provide opportunities to engage with powerful and diverse narratives that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. They highlight the resilience, creativity and impact of Black artists and communities.
Watching these movies with family and friends can spark meaningful conversations and deepen your understanding of the rich tapestry of Black experiences in America. Gather your loved ones, pop some popcorn, and dive into these incredible stories that honor the past and inspire the future.
Tamarra Thomas is an Impact Producer from Sparta, Michigan. Her love of film began when she was in high school leading in both theater and student news. Since then Tamarra has worked on award-winning features and documentaries. Her love for narrative work and community goes hand in hand. Her goal is to create impactful films that influence and expands the creative mindset.
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