1. “Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)” (2021)
A time capsule of the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, this documentary is Questlove’s directorial debut and celebrates Black history, culture and fashion. The restored footage features concert performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone and more.
2. “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (2020)
Viola Davis brings the fearless Mother of the Blues to life in this powerful film based on the 1982 play “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” by August Wilson. It explores themes of identity and heritage as the blues is a source of connection within the Black community.
3. “Ray” (2004)
Experience Jamie Foxx's Oscar-winning portrayal of Ray Charles, the R&B and soul pioneer, in this compelling biopic. From his humble beginnings to his rise as an R&B and soul pioneer, the film captures Charles's musical genius, personal struggles and impact on music history.
4. “Get On Up” (2014)
Chadwick Boseman embodies James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, in this entertaining biographical drama about his rise to fame. It covers the highs and lows of his career as he sang the blues along the "chitlin' circuit.”
5. “The Wiz” (1978)
This vibrant musical reimagines "The Wizard of Oz" with an all-Black cast, featuring Diana Ross as Dorothy and Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow. Blending soul, R&B and disco, the film's score enhances this visually stunning and culturally impactful tribute to Black artists and creativity.
6. “The Five Heartbeats” (1991)
“The Five Heartbeats” is a fictional yet emotional story of a 1960s R&B vocal group's rise and fall. Filled with incredible original music and powerful performances, it captures the brotherhood, rivalries and enduring love for music that defined an era.
7. “Dreamgirls” (2006)
Inspired by the story of The Supremes and the Motown era, this glamorous musical follows the fictional girl group, The Dreams, and their manipulative manager. Featuring catchy tunes and powerhouse vocals from Jennifer Hudson, it's a heartbreaking look at fame, ambition and sisterhood.
8. “Homecoming: A Film by Beyonce” (2019)
Part concert film, part documentary, Beyoncé’s 2018 Coachella performance is a love letter to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and Black excellence in music and dance.
9. “Sinners” (2025)
This recent box office hit dives into the soulful ties of blues and folk music through a genre-bending drama that shows how music is eternal. With its compelling narrative and a standout scene that beautifully illustrates music's ability to transcend time, "Sinners" connects Black southern music’s rich past to its ongoing influence.
10. “Straight Outta Compton” (2015)
This raw biopic tells the story of N.W.A, the revolutionary hip hop group from Compton, California. It's an unfiltered look at the impact of rap on music and pop culture as a tool to reflect, resist and reshape society.