Movies and TvShows featuring "african-american-history" theme.

The Banker is a biographical drama set in 1960s Los Angeles. It tells the story of an African-American banker who recruits a working-class white man to pose as the head of their business empire, as they strive to overcome racial discrimination and achieve success.

During the early years of the U.S. space program, a team of female African-American mathematicians at NASA play a vital role in assisting with calculations and ensuring the success of space missions. They face racial segregation and gender discrimination, but their brilliance and determination ultimately help them overcome these obstacles and make significant contributions to the space program.

Solomon Northup, a free black man, is abducted and sold into slavery in the antebellum United States. He endures the horrors of being a slave, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, and separation from his family. Despite his struggles, he maintains his dignity and seeks freedom.

A biographical epic that follows the life of Malcolm X, from his upbringing in poverty to his transformation into a prominent Black Nationalist leader as a member of the Nation of Islam. The film explores Malcolm X's journey, from his early years as a small-time gangster to his eventual assassination, highlighting his influential role in the civil rights movement and his struggle against racism.

During the American Civil War, Captain Robert Gould Shaw leads the first all-black volunteer company in the Union Army. They face prejudices from both their own side and the Confederates. Despite the challenges, they fight bravely, inspiring the Union to recruit more black soldiers and achieve victory over the Confederacy.

Respect is a biographical drama that follows the rise of Aretha Franklin, an African-American pop singer, in the 1960s. The film explores her journey from a gospel singer to becoming the Queen of Soul, showcasing her struggles, abusive relationships, and her relationship with her father. It also highlights her iconic performances and the impact of her music.

As Cecil Gaines serves eight presidents at the White House, the civil rights movement, Vietnam, and other major events shape his life, family, and American society. This film tells the story of Cecil Gaines, a White House butler who served eight American presidents over three decades. The film traces the dramatic changes that swept American society during this time, from the civil rights movement to Vietnam and beyond, and how those changes affected this man's life and family.

Judas and the Black Messiah tells the true story of Fred Hampton, the Chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party, and William O'Neal, an FBI informant who infiltrates the party with the intention of betraying Hampton. Set against the backdrop of the civil rights movement and political turmoil, the film explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the fight for equality. As tensions rise and violence erupts, O'Neal is forced to confront his loyalties and the consequences of his actions.

Red Tails is a 2012 movie that follows the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, a group of African American pilots who faced racial discrimination but went on to become one of the most respected fighter squadrons in World War II. The movie showcases their struggles, triumphs, and the challenges they faced as they fought to prove their worth and make a significant contribution to the war effort.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. leads a historic campaign for equal voting rights, organizing a march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama in 1965, facing violent opposition and political obstacles.

In the 1950s American South, Odessa Cotter, an African-American maid, and Miriam Thompson, a white housewife, form an unlikely friendship as they navigate the challenges of racial segregation and social injustice. Their lives are forever changed when the Montgomery Bus Boycott begins, forcing them to confront their own beliefs and take a stand for equality. The Long Walk Home is a poignant tale of courage, friendship, and the fight for civil rights.

The Tuskegee Airmen is a movie set during World War II that tells the true story of the first African American pilots in the United States military, who faced racial segregation and prejudice. Despite the challenges they faced, they became an integral part of the U.S. Army Air Forces and made significant contributions to the war effort.

I Am Not Your Negro is a documentary that delves into the history of racism and civil rights in America. It explores the themes of civil unrest, social commentary, racial oppression, and political repression. The film showcases the perspectives of prominent African-American figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, and highlights the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

Blood Brothers: Malcolm X & Muhammad Ali is a biography documentary that explores the tragic yet powerful friendship between two African-American icons: Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. The film delves into their shared experiences, the impact they had on each other's lives, and their contributions to African-American history. Through archive footage and interviews, the movie sheds light on their roles as father figures and mentors to each other, their involvement in the Nation of Islam, and the challenges they faced in a racially charged America. It also touches upon their achievements as professional sportsmen and their ultimate legacies.

A documentary film that presents priceless footage of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, featuring performances by legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, and B.B. King, and highlights the significance of the event in the context of the sociopolitical landscape of the time.

Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson is a documentary film that tells the story of Jack Johnson, the first African-American heavyweight boxing champion. The film explores his rise to fame, his battles in and out of the ring, and the racism he faced during his career. It provides an in-depth look at the life and legacy of this legendary sportsman.

A biographical look at The Temptations, the Motown soul vocal quintet who first came to fame in the 1960s, as seen from the viewpoint of the last surviving original member, Otis Williams. Beginning from their humble origins in the late 1950s and continuing through the 1990s and the deaths of the other original members.

This documentary examines the history of racial inequality in the United States, focusing on the criminal justice system and the mass incarceration of African Americans. It delves into the legacy of slavery, the civil rights movement, and the social and political factors that have perpetuated racial discrimination in America. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, '13th' exposes the systemic racism and injustice that continue to plague the country.

Stories and music of Black artists who relied on an underground travel guide to navigate the injustices of racial segregation while on the road. The Negro Travelers’ Green Book was a directory of lodgings, restaurants, and entertainment venues where African Americans were welcomed. Features performances and interviews with vocalists, musicians, activists, historians, and others.

Muhammad Ali (2021) is a TV mini-series that chronicles the extraordinary life of the legendary boxer and social activist. Spanning his rise to fame as a professional boxer, his outspoken stance on social issues, and his enduring impact on American history, this documentary provides a comprehensive look into the life and legacy of Muhammad Ali.