Women’s History Month: Films About Real Black Women You Need To See
Source: Courtesy / Netflix
Women’s History Month can be seen as a compilation of the many stories about dynamic ladies who’ve made and are still making an impact on the world. Today, we give a special shoutout to one specifically who happens to be celebrating her 62nd birthday today: the iconic Vanessa Williams!
From her rollercoaster experience of being the first Black woman crowned as Miss America, to achieving success in the entertainment industry as both a chart-topping diva and award-winning actress, it’s impressive to think of all that Vanessa has accomplished over the past four decades and counting. You can currently catch her working on that next Tony Award nomination portraying Miranda Priestly in the Dominion Theatre’s musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada soundtracked by Elton John.
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In addition to wishing Mrs. Williams a healthy and hearty 62nd lap around the sun, there’s also some excitement to be had surrounding her upcoming biopic that she’s currently in the process of working on. Details are still a bit scarce, but she confirmed back in October 2024 to Out.com that both a biopic and documentary are in production, stating, “I want to make sure it’s right, and I’m not willing to, you know, make it cheesy. There’s a lot I’m layering in. I know that is what’s imperative: the support that I have for my family, my parents especially, and then my community. Music needs to be a part of everything.”
We’ll be tuned in for sure whenever the biopic of Vanessa Williams is officially announced, and it reminded us of a few other true-life tales about Black women told through the Hollywood lens that could make for a great watch during Women’s History Month. With themes of triumph, sisterhood, empathy, justice and strength from all aspects, the only issue you’ll have in getting through these films will be doing so without some tissues to dry your eyes every now and then.
Keep scrolling for a timely list of films about real-life Black women that should be on your viewing list this Women’s History Month:
Miss Evers’ Boys (1997)
The impact of Eunice Rivers Laurie (1899–1986) on the United States Public Health Service, particularly in the infamous Tuskegee syphilis study, is depicted powerfully with an applause-worthy lead performance by Alfre Woodard.
Betty & Coretta (2013)
Who could’ve imagined we absolutely needed to see Mary J. Blige and Angela Bassett together on film playing two of the most iconic Black women of the civl rights movement? Genius!
Belle (2013)
The 1779 painting of Dido Elizabeth Belle (1761 – 1804) still intrigues artisans of all paths to this day, and the 2013 film that tells her elusive story paints an even more vivid picture thanks in part to Gugu Mbatha-Raw in the titular role.
Queen of Katwe (2016)
Renowned Ugandan chess player Phiona Mutesi broke barriers with her mastery of a centuries-old strategy board game. Not only is her story displayed with authenticity by young actress Madina Nalwanga, the strength of her mother’s love gets shine as well thanks to Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o.
Hidden Figures (2016)
If not for any other reason than to witness Taraji P. Henson’s standout “work like a dog” speech, the inspiring story of Black mathematicians Katherine Goble Johnson (portrayed by Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe) is required viewing for the culture.
Miss Virginia (2019)
Anyone that’s ever believed in a fair education for all will enjoy this tale of D.C. Black mom Virginia Walden Ford, played effortless by Emmy-winner Uzo Aduba.
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)
The Mother Of Blues (1886 – 1939) led a fast and loose life, and Viola Davis does an amazing job at bringing her story to life with respect to the struggles.
Passing (2021)
While the characters played by Tessa Thompson and Ruth Negga are fictional, their stories of identity crisis during a time of intense racial divide in America are in fact the real-life experiences of author Nella Larsen (1891 – 1964). Her upbringing as a mixed raced person directly influenced the novel which the film is adapted from.
The Woman King (2022)
Although we wouldn’t be quick to deny the possibility of a real-life General Nanisca, played flawlessly by Viola Davis, the real focus here is the story told of the historically dynamic Dahomey Amazons.
The Six Triple Eight (2024)
Rarely do you come across a World War II film that changes your perspective on the true power of a Black woman. With an ensemble cast led by Kerry Washington, this one has already become a modern-day classic.
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