Movies and TvShows featuring "black-activist" theme.

Activist Bayard Rustin, influenced by Martin Luther King, organizes a freedom march of 100,000 people to the White House, leading to a successful walk for Civil rights.

A television miniseries based on the life of Harriet Tubman, the escaped African American slave who helped to organize the Underground Railroad, and who led dozens of African Americans from enslavement in the Southern United States to freedom in the Northern states and Canada.

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.

In 1968, during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, massive protests against the Vietnam War occurred. After a curfew was imposed, the protests escalated into a police riot. Seven demonstrators, including Abbie Hoffman, Jerry Rubin, Bobby Seale, and others, were charged with conspiracy. The story revolves around their trial and the events leading up to it.

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.

In the 1960s, Medgar Evers, a prominent civil rights activist, is murdered, leading to a trial that brings to light the systemic racial discrimination and violence prevalent in the American South. As a determined lawyer and a CNN reporter investigate the case, they encounter an evil man fueled by racism and white supremacy.

Queen & Slim is a crime drama and romance film that follows the story of a black couple who go on their first date but end up on the run after a police officer is killed in self-defense. As they evade the law, their relationship grows stronger and they find themselves becoming symbols of resistance against police violence.

Coonskin is a dark and controversial animated crime film that follows the story of three African American characters who get involved in organized crime and face racism and social issues. The film uses satire and symbolism to explore race relations and stereotypes, while also containing elements of blaxploitation.

School Daze is a satirical comedy-drama that explores race relations and college life at a historically black university in Atlanta. The film follows a group of students as they navigate issues of identity, fraternity hazing, activism, and relationships during homecoming weekend.

In this animated short film, the story delves into the intricacies of police brutality and racial injustice through the lens of an intense encounter between a black man and a white police officer. The film thoughtfully depicts the struggle for justice and the urgency of addressing social issues surrounding racial discrimination and excessive use of force.

The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975 is a documentary film that explores the black power movement in the United States during the late 1960s and early 1970s. It provides a unique perspective on the movement through archival footage and interviews with activists and leaders of the time. The film covers a range of topics including political activism, the Black Panther Party, political assassinations, discrimination, and the impact of the movement on American politics and society.

This documentary speaks to local activist groups in the music industry and culture scene to find out why people are driven to fight back and speak out on subjects they’re passionate about. With an aim of inspiring the next generation, each activist gives their advice on how you can put a cause you are passionate about in the local scene into action. Hope Lynes spoke to Phil Douglas from LGBTQIA+ organisation Curious Arts; grassroots promoter Hana Harrison from Art Mouse; Tracks' Sarah Wilson, who campaigns for better female representation in the music scene with her project Noisy Daughters; Chantal Herbert from feminist Black and queer-led organisation Sister Shack; and disability activist and musician Ruth Lyon. It’s hoped that this intimate and personal documentary will explore the starting points to beginning your own activism.

The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks (2022) is a documentary that reveals the intent behind Parks' activism, her radical politics, and her courage. It delves into her life beyond the historic bus boycott, showcasing the unexpected story of a woman who defied societal norms and fought for civil rights.

A man that is a stranger, is an incredibly easy man to hate. However, walking in a stranger’s shoes, even for a short while, can transform a perceived adversary into an ally. Power is found in coming to know our neighbor’s hearts. For in the darkness of ignorance, enemies are made and wars are waged, but in the light of understanding, family extends beyond blood lines and legacies of hatred crumble.

Paul Robeson was a celebrated African-American Actor, Athlete, Singer, Writer, and Civil Rights Activist. Robeson's many achievements are chronicled in this program, ranging from playing with the NFL to graduating from Columbia Law School, performing on Broadway and in Hollywood films to founding the American Crusade against Lynching as well as Council on African Affairs. Robeson was one of the most talented performers of his time and a dedicated humanitarian who ultimately sacrificed fame and fortune for what he believed in. His association with Leftist Politics during the era of the Cold War, and frequent denouncing of American political parties led to his eventual blacklisting with other prominent writers and artists during the McCarthy Era. His talents in all areas are remarkable, and his dedication to attaining a peaceful coexistence between all the people of the world is truly admirable.

Set in the 1960s, 'The '60s' follows the story of a Vietnam War veteran as he navigates the turbulent times of the civil rights movement, the rise of hippie culture, and the fight against social injustice. The series portrays the generation gap, cultural clashes, and coming-of-age experiences against the backdrop of major events like the Chicago protests and the Watts riots.

Rob Williams was an African-American living in Monroe, North Carolina in the 1950s and 1960s. Living with injustice and oppression, many African-Americans advocated a non-violent resistance. Williams took a different tack, urging the oppressed to take up arms. Williams was stripped of his rank as leader of the local NAACP chapter, but he continued to encourage local African-Americans to carry weapons as a means of self-defense. Wanted on a kidnapping charge, Williams and his wife fled to Cuba. His radio show Radio Free Dixie could be heard in some parts of the United States.

Conflict begins to arise on a university campus when a boulder is vandalized with racist messages. Student leaders Brix and Dee have the same goal to catch who is responsible, but find it difficult when their insecurities prevent their progress.

The 12-episode documentary follows the grassroots work of multicultural/intersectional organizations fighting the Los Angeles county's $3.5 billion jail expansion plan in 2018 and examines the issues of cash bail, unlawful arrest, over-policing of Black and brown neighborhoods, and mass incarceration.

After breaking ties with the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X became a man marked for death...and it was just a matter of time before his enemies closed in. Despite death threats and intimidation, Malcolm marched on - continuing to spread the word of equality and brotherhood right up until the moment of his brutal and untimely assassination. Highlighted by newsreel footage and interviews, this is the story of the last twenty-four hours of Malcolm X. Featuring the music of jazz percussionist Max Roach.