Best Black Movies Ever (40-31)

This list is a celebration of storytelling, talent, and cultural impact. These 100 films represent the richness and range of the Black cinematic experience—from timeless classics to modern masterpieces. Whether groundbreaking, genre-defining, or deeply personal, each film has helped shape the legacy of Black cinema.

Explore the stories that have moved us, challenged us, and changed the landscape of film forever.

40. Selma

2014; Directed by Ava Duvarney; David Oyelowo, Oprah Winfrey, Lorraine Toussaint, Tessa Thompson, Common

39. Black Caesar

1973; Directed by Larry Cohen; Fred Williamson, Gloria Hendry

38. Soul Food

1997; Directed by George Tillman Jr.; Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, Mekhi Phifer

37. Lilies Of The Field

1963; Directed by Ralph Nelson; Sidney Poitier

36. Eve’s Bayou

1997; Directed by Kasi Lemmons; Samuel L. Jackson, Debbi Morgan, Vondie Curtis-Hall

35. The Emperor Jones

1933; Directed by Dudley Murphy; Paul Robeson

34. Tsotsi

2005; Directed by Gavin Hood; Presley Chweneyagae, Terry Pheto

33. Menace II Society

1993; Directed by Allen and Albert Hughes; Tyrin Turner, Lorenz Tate, Jada Pinkett Smith

32. Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse

2018; Directed by Peter Ramsey, Bob Persichetti and Rodney Rothman; Shameik Moorel

31. Glory

1989; Directed by Edward Zwick; Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, Andre Braugher