Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It’s a day of reflection, celebration, and education about the African American experience. One powerful way to honor Juneteenth is by watching films and TV shows that highlight Black history, culture, and resilience. Here are 13 of the best movies and TV shows to watch for Juneteenth.
Table of Contents – What to Watch for Juneteenth
1. “Selma” (2014)
Directed by Ava DuVernay, “Selma” chronicles the 1965 voting rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The film provides a gripping portrayal of the struggle for civil rights and the power of collective action. David Oyelowo’s performance as Dr. King is both nuanced and powerful, capturing the spirit and determination of the movement. “Selma” is a must-watch for Juneteenth, offering inspiration and education about the fight for equality.
2. “12 Years a Slave” (2013)
This Academy Award-winning film tells the harrowing true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man kidnapped and sold into slavery. Directed by Steve McQueen, “12 Years a Slave” is a stark reminder of the brutal realities of slavery. Chiwetel Ejiofor’s portrayal of Northup is heart-wrenching, and the film’s unflinching depiction of violence and oppression is a sobering reflection on America’s past. Watching this film for Juneteenth provides a profound understanding of the resilience of those who endured slavery.
3. “Roots” (1977 & 2016)
Both the original miniseries and its 2016 remake depict the multi-generational saga of an African family’s struggle against enslavement. “Roots” is a seminal work that has educated generations about the impact of slavery. The series follows Kunta Kinte and his descendants, showing the brutal realities of slavery and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Watching “Roots” for Juneteenth is an excellent way to grasp the historical significance and lasting impact of slavery on African American families.
4. “The Color Purple” (1985)
Directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Color Purple” explores the life of a young African American woman in the early 20th century South. The film addresses themes of resilience, sisterhood, and the fight against oppression. Whoopi Goldberg delivers a stunning performance as Celie, a woman who overcomes immense hardships to find her voice and sense of self. “The Color Purple” is a powerful film to watch for Juneteenth, celebrating the strength and determination of Black women.
5. “When They See Us” (2019)
Ava DuVernay’s miniseries recounts the true story of the Central Park Five, five Black and Latino teenagers wrongfully convicted of a brutal crime. This powerful Netflix original series sheds light on systemic racism in the criminal justice system. Each episode delves into the personal stories of the boys and their families, highlighting the profound injustice they faced. Watching “When They See Us” for Juneteenth is essential to understand the ongoing struggles against racial profiling and wrongful convictions.
6. “BlacKkKlansman” (2018)
Directed by Spike Lee, this film is based on the true story of a Black detective who infiltrates the Ku Klux Klan. “BlacKkKlansman” blends humor and drama to deliver a potent message about racism and activism. John David Washington stars as Ron Stallworth, whose daring undercover operation exposes the deep-seated hate within the Klan. Watching “BlacKkKlansman” for Juneteenth offers a unique blend of entertainment and education on race relations and activism.
7. “Lovecraft Country” (2020)
This HBO series blends horror, historical fiction, and fantasy to explore racial issues in 1950s America. Created by Misha Green, “Lovecraft Country” uses supernatural elements to highlight real-world racism and social justice struggles. The series follows Atticus Freeman and his family as they navigate a world filled with both monstrous creatures and human bigotry. Watching “Lovecraft Country” for Juneteenth provides a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the ongoing fight for racial justice.
8. “Hidden Figures” (2016)
“Hidden Figures” tells the inspiring story of three African American women mathematicians who worked at NASA and played crucial roles in the space race. The film celebrates their intelligence, perseverance, and impact on history. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe deliver standout performances as Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Watching “Hidden Figures” for Juneteenth is a celebration of Black excellence and the often-overlooked contributions of Black women to American history.
9. “Just Mercy” (2019)
Based on a true story, “Just Mercy” stars Michael B. Jordan as lawyer Bryan Stevenson, who fights to overturn the wrongful conviction of an innocent Black man on death row. The film highlights issues of racial injustice and the power of advocacy. Jamie Foxx’s portrayal of Walter McMillian, the wrongfully convicted man, is deeply moving, and the film’s exploration of systemic flaws in the criminal justice system is both enlightening and motivating. Watching “Just Mercy” for Juneteenth underscores the importance of fighting for justice and equality.
10. “The Hate U Give” (2018)
Adapted from Angie Thomas’ bestselling novel, “The Hate U Give” follows a young Black girl who witnesses a police shooting and becomes an activist. The film addresses police brutality, systemic racism, and the importance of using one’s voice. Amandla Stenberg’s portrayal of Starr Carter is compelling, as she navigates the challenges of speaking out against injustice while balancing her life in two contrasting communities. Watching “The Hate U Give” for Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the importance of activism and the fight for justice.
11. “Black Panther” (2018)
Directed by Ryan Coogler, “Black Panther” is more than a superhero film; it’s a cultural phenomenon that celebrates African heritage and Black empowerment. The film’s themes of identity, leadership, and unity resonate deeply with Juneteenth. Chadwick Boseman’s iconic portrayal of T’Challa, the king of Wakanda, along with a stellar supporting cast, brings to life a vibrant, technologically advanced African nation. Watching “Black Panther” for Juneteenth not only entertains but also inspires pride and a sense of belonging.
12. “Queen Sugar” (2016-2022)
Created by Ava DuVernay and executive produced by Oprah Winfrey, this TV series follows the Bordelon siblings as they navigate life and family struggles in Louisiana. “Queen Sugar” explores contemporary Black life and the legacies of slavery and discrimination. The series delves into issues such as land ownership, family dynamics, and racial injustice, with rich storytelling and beautifully crafted characters. “Queen Sugar” is a must-watch for Juneteenth due to it’s profound exploration of identity, community, and resilience.
13. “The Underground Railroad” (2021)
Based on Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this Amazon Prime series, directed by Barry Jenkins, imagines an alternate history where the Underground Railroad is an actual network of tracks and tunnels. The series provides a poignant and imaginative take on the quest for freedom. Through stunning visuals and powerful storytelling, “The Underground Railroad” captures the horrors of slavery and the unyielding hope for liberation. Watching this series for Juneteenth offers a deeply moving reflection on the fight for freedom and justice.
These movies and TV shows offer a diverse array of stories that reflect the Black experience in America. By watching and sharing these films and series, we can honor Juneteenth’s significance, educate ourselves and others, and celebrate the rich culture and history of African Americans. Whether you’re revisiting classics or discovering new favorites, these 13 selections provide powerful viewing experiences that resonate with the spirit of Juneteenth.
