Five things to watch this Black History Month

watching tvPhoto by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

As we celebrate Black History Month, we have put together an essential list of films and series that are a must-watch this month. Hope you enjoy!

  1. Green Book

An African American pianist hires an Italian American bouncer to drive him to his venues.

It’s a film about the growth of a relationship between two people as they confront racism and danger in the era of American segregation.

It features an Oscar-winning performance by Mahershala Ali as Don Shirley a classical pianist on a tour of America.

2. The Pursuit of Happyness

This is an uplifting real life story of Chris Gardner, a single father who went from homeless to successful businessman. It is an inspiring story about family, determination and never letting go of one’s dream.

3. When they see us – Netflix limited series

When They See Us is part of the Black Lives Matter collection on Netflix. Released in 2019, it is based on the true story of the so called ‘Central Park Five’.

In 1989 in New York’s Central Park, a jogger was assaulted and raped. Five teenagers were charged with the crime and the series spans their 25 years of maintaining their innocence, fighting the convictions, their exoneration and ultimately the settlement reached with the city of New York in 2014. 

4. Invictus

The movie tells the true story of how Nelson Mandela joined forces with the captain of the South African rugby team, (The Springboks), Francois Pienaar as part of efforts to unite their country. The President supports the rugby team in their quest to win their home competition in the Rugby World cup in 1995 in the aftermath of Apartheid.

5. The Woman King

Released on the 4th October, The Woman King tells the story of General Nanisca and the Agojie tribe, an all-female unit of warriors who protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s.

Based on true events, the movie tells the story of Nanisca training the next generation and readying them for battle against an enemy determined to destroy their way of life.

A must-see on black representation and woman empowerment. The Woman King is out in cinemas now.

By Phebe Williams

Editor / Reporter Interests include - telling stories, arts and entertainment, books, magazines and Formula 1