It is officially Pride Month and it would be wrong to celebrate without acknowledging the Black individuals that fought for the rights of queer people all across the country. This month, Filmocracy will be shining light on the top six Black LGBTQ films that you might have seen on the big screen or independently.
#blacklivesmatter
The Color Purple (1985)
Based on The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Nominated for 11 Academy Awards, however did not win any
An epic tale spanning forty years in the life of Celie (Whoopi Goldberg), an African-American woman living in the South who survives incredible abuse and bigotry. After Celie’s abusive father marries her off to the equally debasing “Mister” Albert Johnson (Danny Glover), things go from bad to worse, leaving Celie to find companionship anywhere she can. She perseveres, holding on to her dream of one day being reunited with her sister in Africa.
Directed by Steven Spielberg, Written by Menno Meyjes
Pariah (2011)
Indie
It tells the story of Alike (Adepero Oduye), a 17-year-old African-American embracing her identity as a lesbian.
Directed/Written by Dee Rees
Blackbird (2014)
Indie
Randy, a devout high school choir boy, struggles with his sexuality while living in his conservative Mississippi town. His mother blames him for his sister’s disappearance as his father guides him into manhood.
Directed by Patrik-Ian Polk, Written by Patrik-Ian Polk & Rikki
Dear White People (2014)
Indie
A campus culture war between blacks and whites at a predominantly white school comes to a head when the staff of a humour magazine stages an offensive Halloween party.
In 2017, Netflix produced an adaptation of the film, which is currently renewed for a fourth season.
Directed/Written by Justin Simien
Naz & Maalik (2015)
Indie
Two closeted Muslim teens living in Brooklyn struggle to come clean about their sexuality.
Directed/Written by Jay Dockendorf
Moonlight (2016)
Indie
Based on In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue by Tarell Alvin McCraney
A look at three defining chapters in the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in Miami. His epic journey to manhood is guided by the kindness, support and love of the community that helps raise him.
Won three Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Picture. It became the first film with an all-Black cast, the first LGBTQ-related film, and the second-lowest grossing film domestically to win Best Picture.
Directed by Barry Jenkins, Written by Barry Jenkins & Tarell Alvin McCraney