Selma is a powerful historical drama that chronicles the 1965 voting rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. If you were moved by this film, you’ll likely appreciate other movies that highlight significant moments in history and the fight for justice. Here are 14 films that capture the spirit of Selma:
1. 12 Years a Slave
12 Years a Slave tells the harrowing true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. Directed by Steve McQueen and starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Lupita Nyong’o, and Michael Fassbender, this film is a deeply affecting portrayal of resilience and human dignity.
2. The Butler
The Butler follows the life of Cecil Gaines, who served as a White House butler for over three decades. Directed by Lee Daniels, the film stars Forest Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey, and it offers a unique perspective on American history through the eyes of someone who witnessed it from within the halls of power.
3. Malcolm X
Malcolm X, directed by Spike Lee, is a biographical drama about the life of the influential African American leader. Denzel Washington delivers a riveting performance as Malcolm X, capturing his journey from street hustler to one of the most significant figures in the Civil Rights Movement.
4. The Help
The Help is set in the 1960s and focuses on the lives of African American maids working in white households in Jackson, Mississippi. Directed by Tate Taylor and starring Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, and Emma Stone, this film explores themes of racism, courage, and friendship.
5. Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures tells the inspiring true story of three African American women mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the Space Race. Directed by Theodore Melfi, the film stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, highlighting their invaluable contributions to science and history.
6. 42
42 is a biographical sports film about Jackie Robinson, the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. Directed by Brian Helgeland and starring Chadwick Boseman and Harrison Ford, this movie showcases Robinson’s courage and determination in breaking the color barrier in professional sports.
7. Lincoln
Lincoln, directed by Steven Spielberg, focuses on President Abraham Lincoln’s efforts to pass the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery. Starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, and Tommy Lee Jones, the film provides a compelling look at one of the most critical periods in American history.
8. Detroit
Detroit is a gripping drama based on the Algiers Motel incident during the 1967 Detroit riots. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow and starring John Boyega, Algee Smith, and Will Poulter, the film delves into the racial tensions and police brutality that marked this turbulent time.
9. Loving
Loving tells the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple whose marriage led to a landmark Supreme Court case. Directed by Jeff Nichols and starring Ruth Negga and Joel Edgerton, this film is a poignant reminder of the fight for love and equality.
10. Fruitvale Station
Fruitvale Station recounts the tragic story of Oscar Grant, a young Black man who was killed by a police officer in Oakland, California. Directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan, this film is a heart-wrenching exploration of systemic racism and injustice.
11. The Color Purple
The Color Purple, directed by Steven Spielberg, is an adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Starring Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Danny Glover, the film follows the life of Celie, an African American woman in the early 20th century, as she overcomes immense hardships.
12. Amistad
Amistad is a historical drama about a group of enslaved Africans who revolt aboard the ship La Amistad. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Djimon Hounsou, Matthew McConaughey, and Anthony Hopkins, the film highlights the legal battle that ensued and its implications for the abolition movement.
13. Glory
Glory tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, one of the first African American units in the Civil War. Directed by Edward Zwick and starring Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman, this film is a powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers.
14. Marshall
Marshall focuses on a young Thurgood Marshall as he defends a Black chauffeur accused of sexual assault. Directed by Reginald Hudlin and starring Chadwick Boseman, Josh Gad, and Sterling K. Brown, the film showcases the early career of the man who would become the first African American Supreme Court Justice.
