Black Film History

I have been collecting and archiving Black films since 2008. Over the years, I have built a massive digital library dedicated to preserving and sharing this history with the community. On this page, I have shared this history for one reason only: love.

Each post, screenshot, newspaper clipping, trailer, and write-up is intended to present Black film history as it is. Some films are nostalgic, classic, groundbreaking, awful, controversial, and even disturbing. But all of them are part of the historical record and deserve to be documented and preserved.

One of the most important parts of this archive is the research and writing. Over 600 film write-ups have been created to provide historical context, production details, cultural significance, and insights into preservation for films that are often forgotten, overlooked, or misunderstood.

I wanted to share some archive statistics so people can see the scale of this work and know that Black film history is in good hands. Thank you to everyone who has supported the page over the years, as well as the distribution companies and preservation groups that helped bring many of these films back to life for newer generations.

"The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman" (1974) is a made-for-television biographical drama based on Ernest Gaines's novel. Originally aired on CBS, the film stars Cicely Tyson as the title character and features an excellent supporting cast, telling a deep, riveting story about a 110-year-old former enslaved person. The film received numerous nominations and won several Primetime Emmys, with Tyson winning "Best Lead Actress in a Drama" and "Actress of the Year - Special."

Director: John Korty
Writers: Tracy Keenan Wynn, Ernest J. Gaines

Starring Cicely Tyson, Joel Fluellen, Michael Murphy, Rod Perry, Beatrice Winde, Thalmus Rasulala, Arnold Wilkerson, Bill Walker, Carol Sutton, Dan Smith, Odetta, Valerie Odell, Derrick Mills, Richard Dysart, Will Hare, David Hooks, Warren Kenner

Storyline
Beginning during the racial turmoil of 1960s Louisiana, 110-year-old ex-slave Jane Pittman (Cicely Tyson) grants an interview to a persistent journalist and relates the remarkable story of her life. Orphaned early, she toils on a plantation until a chance meeting with a white Union soldier named Brown changes her outlook. Jane's emancipation marks only the beginning of an arduous and heartbreaking odyssey, framed by the horrors of slavery and the justice of the civil rights movement.

Available on Blu-ray and streaming services.

"Little Richard" (2000) was a made-for-television biographical drama about the life of the famous Rock ' n ' Roll legend starring Leon as the rockstar himself. Originally aired on NBC, directed by Robert Townsend, and executive produced by Little Richard, this film takes you on a journey through his life, from growing up in Macon, Georgia, to his stardom in the 1950s.

Director: Robert Townsend
Writers: Bill Kerby, Daniel Taplitz

Starring Leon, Jenifer Lewis, Carl Lumbly, Tamala Jones, Mel Jackson, Garrett Morris, Anthony Lee, Lahmard J. Tate, Alimi Ballard, Anthony, JoNell Kennedy, Michael Mantell, Reynaldo Rey, William James Jones, Warren G, Gregory Gast, Michael Ralph

Storyline
Growing up in Macon, Georgia, Little Richard (Leon) discovered music through his church. After winning a local talent contest, Richard is encouraged to pursue a career as a songwriter and performer, and finds success and stardom following his first single, "Tutti Frutti." At the height of his fame, Richard abandons his career for a religious life. His retirement, however, proves to be short-lived, and he soon makes a triumphant return to rock 'n' roll.

Available on DVD and streaming services.

"Trespass" (1992) is an action crime thriller directed by Walter Hill and written by Bob Gale and Robert Zemeckis. The star-studded cast includes Bill Paxton, William Sadler, Ice-T, Ice Cube, Bruce A. Young, and Stoney Jackson. The film is non-stop intensity from beginning to end. The story's premise is straightforward, but how things play out keeps you glued to the screen.

Hill shot most of the film between Atlanta and Memphis, even though the film is set in St. Louis. Universal Pictures wanted to release the movie earlier than December. However, due to the LA riots in the Spring of '92 and because the original title was "The Looters," they changed the title and remarketed the film. Unfortunately, the timing of the riots and the film's storyline made a poor impression on a larger audience because the movie featured a White-versus-Black storyline. Still, it had nothing to do with one group hating another group.

The soundtrack is the good raw, gutter, and in-your-face early 90s hip-hop. Ice-T and Ice Cube performed the title song on the soundtrack. I wish there had been a collab album between the two at the time. Other artists include Black Sheep, Public Enemy, WC, Lord Finesse, and Gang Starr. Check out that soundtrack if you want something to give you that Golden Age vibe. It's incredibly underrated compared to other 90s hip-hop soundtracks.

Director: Walter Hill
Writer: Bob Gale, Robert Zemeckis

Starring Bill Paxton, William Sadler, Ice-T, Ice Cube, Bruce A. Young, Stoney Jackson, Art Evans, Glen Plummer, De'voreaux White, Tom Lister Jr., T.E. Russell, John Toles-Bey, Byron Minns, Tico Wells, Hal Landon Jr., James Pickens Jr., L. Warren Young

Storyline
Firefighters Vince (Bill Paxton) and Don (William Sadler) venture into the gang-infested territory to find gold hidden inside an abandoned building. But when they witness a murder, they become the targets of crime lord King James (Ice-T) and his underling Savon (Ice Cube). Fortunately, the treasure hunters have kidnapped a bargaining chip: King James' half-brother, Lucky (Devoreaux White).

Available on Blu-ray and streaming services.

"The Gifted" (1993) is an independent sci-fi horror film written, directed, and produced by Audrey King Lewis. This movie gem stars a respectable cast, including Dick Anthony Williams, Bianca Taylor, Johnny Sekka, J.A. Preston, Gene Jackson, Julius Harris, and Julie Hampton. However, some cast members were starring in their first film. This movie did not receive a nationwide theatrical release, but it screened at film festivals, including the African American Film Festival.

The film is about a Southern black family's experience with supernatural powers inherited from their West African lineage, and their struggle to battle an alien force that threatens the planet. Lewis's inspiration for the film came from her experiences with family members who have unique healing and astro-projection capabilities. In an interview with Lewis in the Richmond-Times Dispatch, she states, "I used to be able to shed my physical self for out-of-body experiences. I could communicate with people from afar that way." The West African connection comes from a traveler from the Dogon Tribe in the film. Lewis mentioned that the Dogon Book parallels the Bible because both require you to believe you can fight and overcome the hostile forces of evil.

Black sci-fi horror movies are scarce. This film is a real nugget. The budget is low, but the story is excellent. It could use an honorable remake, as it's a thoughtful movie with some educational elements. The film was a project for a Black woman who saw her visions come true on screen. I highly recommend it for viewing.

Director: Audrey King Lewis
Writer: Audrey King Lewis

Starring Dick Anthony Williams, Bianca Taylor, Johnny Sekka, J.A. Preston, Gene Jackson, Julius Harris, Julie Hampton, Marguerite Ray, Ed Cambridge, Davis Roberts, Aaron Lewis

Storyline
The "Gift" was handed down from their West African ancestors 5,000 years ago when the earth was in danger of being taken over by an evil alien force from the star Sirius. After witnessing the horrific slaughter of his family, a West African King from the Dogon tribe is determined to join forces with his American relatives to fight the ominous entity. Time is running out for the alien. His prophecy must be fulfilled. A confrontation is imminent, in which all the endowed powers of the descendants must be joined for the survival of "The Gifted."

Available on VHS and streaming services.

"The Vernon Johns Story" (1994) was a made-for-television biographical drama about the minister, Dr. Vernon Johns, who preceded Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama (1947–52). Dr. Johns was known for his fiery, controversial sermons on race relations before the Civil Rights Movement. The film stars James Earl Jones as Dr. Johns, who was an excellent choice to honor a leader unknown to many. Kareem Adual-Jabbar was also a co-producer of the movie, exploring a post-NBA career in film.

Director: Kenneth Fink
Writers: Leslie Lee, Kevin Arkadie

Starring James Earl Jones, Mary Alice, Joe Seneca, Tommy Hollis, Nicolle Rochelle, Ashanti Nailah Blaize, Lashayla Logan, Clifton James, Shelby Ware, Cissy Houston, Moses Gibson, Billie Allen

Storyline
In 1948, Johns served as the outspoken spiritual leader of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Outraged by the racial injustice that prevailed in the South, he was determined to fight for equality for all African Americans. His refusal to accept segregation incited anger amongst local law enforcement and caused his family to fear for their lives. Johns held strong to his beliefs and encouraged his congregation to join him. But the church council deemed him a troublemaker and voted him out as pastor, only to be replaced by future civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.

Available on DVD and streaming services.

Appreciation Post: Shelia Frazier (November 13, 1948 - present) | 30 acting credits

Ms. Frazier appeared in several films in the 70s before transitioning to primarily television after 1980. She brought elegance, beauty, and dignity to each role while appearing alongside stars such as Ron O'Neal, Richard Roundtree, Jim Brown, Fred Williamson, Bill Cosby, and many others. Thank you, Ms. Frazier. We appreciate your contribution to Black Cinema.

Notable films:
* Super Fly (1972)
* Super Fly T.N.T. (1973)
* Three the Hard Way (1974)
* The Super Cops (1974)
* California Suite (1978)
* The Hitter (1978)

TV. Shows:
* Firehouse (1973, TV Movie)
* Starsky and Hutch (1977)
* King (1978, 3 episodes)
* The Lazarus Syndrome (1979, TV Series & TV Movie)
* Lou Grant (1981)
* The Love Boat (1982)
* Dallas (1982)
* The Phoenix (1982)
* The Greatest American Hero (1983)
* Hardcastle and McCormick (1984)
* Magnum, P.I. (1985)
* Gimme a Break! (1985)

"The Hitter" (1978) is a late-entry blaxploitation film starring Ron O'Neal and Shelia Frazier. Although some sources list a 1979 release, newspaper advertisements confirm screenings as early as December 1978. The film arrived during the final phase of the blaxploitation era, as the genre was in decline after its early-1970s peak.

Following the success of "Super Fly" (1972), Ron O'Neal became one of the genre's defining faces, later expanding his career into directing and television. "The Hitter" emerged amid an attempted resurgence of the genre, when Black cinema was undergoing a broader transition. As theatrical output declined, many Black actors and filmmakers shifted toward television and made-for-TV productions. The genre itself had become increasingly controversial, facing criticism and organized pushback from civil rights groups who viewed its portrayals as harmful to the broader image of Black communities. As a result, studios reduced both production and marketing efforts, contributing to their rapid decline.

The film features a notable supporting cast, including Adolph Caesar and Bill Cobbs, who add depth to their performances. As in many films of the era, music plays an important role, with a soundtrack produced by Garfeel Ruff that complements the film's tone and atmosphere.

Director: Christopher Leitch
Writers: Christopher Leitch (screenplay), Ben Harris (screenplay)

Starring Ron O'Neal, Sheila Frazier, Adolph Caesar, Bill Cobbs, Dorothi Fox, Alfie Brown

Storyline
An ex-professional boxer (O'Neal) tries to make a new start when teaming up with a fast-talking but aging hoodlum (Ceaser) and an ex-call girl (Frazier), but soon get more than they bargained for when crossing an adversary from their past (Cobbs).

This movie is only available on VHS, YouTube, and other streaming services. I would like to see a remastered release one day soon.

"Georgia, Georgia" (1972) is a Swedish-American drama film directed by Stig Björkman and starring Diana Sands. Written by Maya Angelou, the film was shot in Stockholm, Sweden, and represents an early example of a feature film written by a Black woman. Angelou also composed the film's score, although her involvement in the overall production was limited.

The film received notable advertising during a period when Black cinema was expanding in the early 1970s. At the time, Angelou was exploring filmmaking as an extension of her literary work, using the medium to present stories centered on Black women and their lived experiences. Despite its international scope and ambition, "Georgia, Georgia" remained relatively underseen, with Diana Sands' performance often recognized as the film's strongest element.

Director: Stig Björkman
Writer: Maya Angelou

Starring Diana Sands, Dirk Benedict, Minnie Gentry, Roger Furman, Terry Whitmore, Diana Kjær

Storyline
Acclaimed actress Diana Sands and Dirk Benedict star in this provocative romantic drama. While performing in Sweden, Black singer Georgia (Diana Sands) falls for her white photographer, Michael Winters. The romance is scorned by Georgia's traveling companion, Alberta (Minnie Gentry), who is most upset by the in*******al relationship.

Available on DVD and streaming services.

Here are some lesser-known 70s movies that are still on VHS and haven't had proper restoration. These selections are a good variety of comedy, drama, and action. All of them, except "Johnny Tough," had official soundtrack releases that are definitely worth exploring. Have you seen any of these movies or listened to the soundtrack?

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1. "Big Time" (1977)

Director: Andrew Georgias
Writers: Anton Diether, Leon Isaac Kennedy, Christipher Joy, Smokey Robinson, Andrew Georgias, Louis Gross
Soundtrack: Smokey Robinson
Starring: Christipher Joy, Tobar Mayo, Jayne Kennedy, Roger E. Mosley,
Art Evans

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2. "Johnny Tough" (1974)

Director: Horace Jackson
Writers: Lynda Holmquist, Horace Jackson, Michele Searcy Jackson
Starring: Dion Gossett, Christopher Townes, Renny Roker, Rich Holmes, Sandra Reed

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3. "Adiós Amigo" (1975)

Director: Fred Williamson
Writer: Fred Williamson
Soundtrack: Infernal Blues Machine
Starring: Fred Williamson, Richard Pryor, Thalmus Rasulala

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4. "Blackjack" (1978)

Director: John Evans
Writer: John Evans
Soundtrack: Jack Ashford
Starring: Tony Burton, William Smith, Damu King, Frank Christi, Ernie Banks

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5. "Pipe Dreams" (1976)

Director: Stephen Verona
Writer: Stephen Verona
Soundtrack: Gladys Knight and the Pips
Starring: Gladys Knight, Barry Hankerson, Arnold Johnson, Altovise Davis

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6. "Brother on the Run" (1978)

Directors: Edward J. Lakso, Herbert L. Strock
Writers: Edward J. Lakso, Herbert L. Strock
Soundtrack: Johnny Pate
Starring: Terry Carter, Kyle Johnson, Gwenn Mitchell, Diana Eden,
James B. Sikking