Now more than ever, we need to teach our kids about Black history. A great way to do that is by watching Black history movies together. February is Black History Month, but here, we’ll share 10 movies that are great all year long. Find something you and your family will love, no matter your kids’ ages or your favorite genre.
10 Black History Movies For Kids of All Ages
Take a look at some great movies that showcase Black history and culture in age-appropriate ways.
1. The Princess and the Frog
Disney’s The Princess and the Frog features the first Black Disney Princess. Tiana dreams of opening a restaurant in New Orleans, but faces the challenges of being Black and a woman. A little bit of magic becomes a big life-changer as Tiana learns to embrace who she is, and finds love in unexpected places.
2. Ruby Bridges
Ruby Bridges is a Civil Rights hero. She was the first African-American student integrated into a New Orleans elementary school. Her story is relatable for elementary school-age children, and teaches important lessons about racism, segregation, and Civil Rights.
3. Remember the Titans
Remember the Titans is a movie that kids and adults of all ages love. This movie follows the story of a football coach and a high school football team in 1971 in Virginia. When an all Black school integrates with an all White school, there is tension and turmoil. But through the movie, we see stereotypes and distrust give way to unity and acceptance.
4. Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures is a true story of unforgettable African-American women. The story is about a group of women who end up being a vital part of NASA’s space program. While the movie is loved by all, it is especially empowering for young girls.
5. Harriet
Harriet Tubman is one of the most notable women in history. The movie Harriet follows her life as she evolves from a slave to a leader who saves the lives of hundreds of people on the Underground Railroad. It is a powerful story for young Black women.
6. The Great Debaters
Denzel Washington stars in The Great Debaters alongside Forest Whitaker. During segregation, an underdog African-American debate team takes on a group of Harvard elites. The debate was held in 1935 in Texas, at a time and place where racial tension was at its height. Based on a true story, this is an empowering movie for older kids and teenagers.
7. Malcolm X
Spike Lee directs this tribute to Black activist Malcolm X. It is a biopic that shows how the character evolved from a gangster to a leader in the Nation of Islam. It is a powerful story about Black liberation and is most appropriate for teenage viewers and older.
8. Selma
Selma is a movie that chronicles the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. The movie follows the most historic moments in his life, including his campaign for voting rights and his epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. Selma is a must-watch for older kids and teenagers eager to learn about the Civil Rights movement and why it was necessary.
9. Just Mercy
Just Mercy is the true story of Bryan Stevenson, an African-American Harvard graduate who defends the wrongly convicted in Alabama. It is a story of injustice and the fight for equal rights in the justice system, especially in the South. Just Mercy is rated PG-13 and is most suitable for teenagers. It is a great opportunity for families to discuss the Equal Justice Initiative.
10. The Color of Friendship
The Color of Friendship is set in 1977, when two girls – one Black and one White – become friends despite being from opposite sides of the world. Together, they learn about friendship and tolerance, racial issues, slurs, and more. It is recommended for kids nine and older.
Learning about Black history and culture can be entertaining and fun. Watching Black history movies together is a great way to engage your children in discussion. Check out the titles we listed above to learn more and get your kids involved for Black History Month.
