7 Best Black History Documentaries

Black History Month Documentaries

Die Willie Die is a documentary about healing from multigenerational trauma. This film follows a husband and father who recognizes the trauma affecting his life and seeks to kill it at the root to empower his children and the generations to come. When it screens for an exclusive Black History Month event on February 5th, 2022, you’ll get interviews with artists/motivational speakers such as Mama Sol and mental health expert Dr. Michele Leno. Plus, reserving your ticket gets you free, instant access to the official soundtrack “Closer To God” as well as the audiobook download. 

Documentaries offer us rare glimpses into the past so we can educate ourselves and others to create a better future. Much of the information included in every Black history month documentary is left out from classrooms across the country. Because of this, these documentaries are even more important to experience. With that said, here are the seven best Black history documentaries.

​1. 13th

This masterful work from director Ava DuVernay takes a deep dive into the prison industrial complex. DuVernay’s examination of the 13th Amendment and how it results in mass incarceration, driven by racial inequality, makes it an essential Black history month documentary. Plus, the entire film is free on YouTube.

2. The Black Power Mixtape Of 1967-1975

The footage in The Black Power Mixtape Of 1967-1975 wasn’t discovered until thirty years after it was shot. This rare footage chronicles vital years of African-American artists, activists, musicians and scholars as they focus on topics such as the Vietnam War and the Black Panther Party. When it comes to Black history month documentaries, this is essential viewing.

3. LA 92

This harrowing documentary features rare footage and interviews following the LA protests after the horrific police brutality towards Rodney King. This timely work is extremely relevant to our world today. A profoundly immersive experience, LA 92 is a must-watch.

4. Eyes On The Prize

Eyes On The Prize offers an extensive look at the Civil Rights Movement. This award-winning series covers decades of progress and vital moments of history. These include historic events such as the Montgomery bus boycott, protests and demonstrations featuring Martin Luther King Jr., and vital moments in Black Panther history.

5. The Black List

Featuring twenty interviews of prominic Black icons ranging from entertainers to politicians, The Black List provides a vivid portrait of what it means to be Black. These insightful voices include Toni Morrison, Vernon Jordan, and more as they share experiences and insight.

6. More Than A Month

African American filmmaker Shukree Hassan Tilghman sets out with the bold idea of ending Black History Month. By explaining that Black history is inseparable from American history and can’t be contained within the shortest month of the year, Tilghman opens the conversation regarding what Black history ought to look like. This Black history documentary is inspiring and challenging for every viewer.

7. The Trials Of Muhammed Ali

This 2013 documentary from Bill Siegel follows the trajectory of this legendary athlete. Ali’s life was extraordinary inside and outside of the ring, and this documentary covers it in great detail. Everything from Ali’s conversion to Islam to his refusal to fight in the Vietnam War is explored, making it a perfect Black history month documentary. 

​Healing From Multigenerational Trauma

“Die Willie Die” is a groundbreaking film that discusses killing the ghost of the fictional slave owner Willie Lynch. Activists, mental health professionals, and thought leaders discuss how his doctrine still affects black people today and how to kill the spirit of his words. Are you ready to reserve your ticket today? Visit https://www.diewillie.com/ today!