Ten Movies to Consider During MLK, Jr. Week

1 year ago

Box office smashes, documentaries and other civil rights related films

If you’re lucky enough to have Martin Luther King, Jr. Day off from work, spend some time taking in a few movies that reflect the civil rights leader’s accomplishments and the victories of other important historical figures.

More than a few of the current GOP presidential hopefuls suggest America needs to be restored to its former greatness. Keep in mind, they are referring to periods of American history which the following movies and documentaries depict.

The films are listed below in no particular order:

Red Tails (2012)

It’s the year’s largest budget action film with a predominantly African American cast, according producer and famed director George Lucas. Cuba Gooding, Jr. and Terrence Howard get top billing in Red Tails, which depicts a crew of black pilots in the Tuskegee training program. The movie opens this Friday. But if you can’t wait, your local library may carry the 1995 made-for-TV movie, “The Tuskegee Airmen,” which also casts Gooding.

-----------

Malcolm X (1992)

The iconic biopic of the influential Black Nationalist leader, starring actor Denzel Washington. Malcolm X provides contrast to Dr. King’s non-violent and inclusive civil rights message.

-----------

Pride (2007)

A determined African American swimming coach starts a team for troubled teens in 1970’s Philadelphia. The film stars Terrence Howard, Bernie Mack and Kimberly Elise.

-----------

The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords (1999)

A documentary taking stock of the African American press and how it covered the black experience in America, starting with encouraging the Great Migration. In the past it has aired on PBS stations during Black History Month and can be found in public and university library collections. To visit the film's website, click here.