19+ Best Movies About the Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal moment in American history, marked by the fight for racial equality and justice.

It was a time of immense struggle, but also one of great courage and resilience.

Over the years, numerous movies have been made to depict this important period, shedding light on the heroes, events, and emotions that shaped the movement.

Here is a list of notable movies that depict or are centered around the Civil Rights Movement, along with their release years:

“Selma” (2014) – A portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr.’s campaign to secure equal voting rights.

The Help” (2011) – A story that explores the lives of African-American maids working in Mississippi during the early 1960s.

“Mississippi Burning” (1988) – A film based on the FBI investigation of the murders of three civil rights workers in 1964.

“Malcolm X” (1992) – A biographical film about the African-American activist Malcolm X.

“The Butler” (2013) – A story about a butler who served at the White House during seven presidential administrations.

“Hidden Figures” (2016) – A film that tells the story of African-American women mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Civil Rights era.

“12 Years a Slave” (2013) – A biographical film about Solomon Northup, a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery.

“Loving” (2016) – A film that depicts the landmark 1967 Supreme Court case that invalidated laws prohibiting interracial marriage.

“BlacKkKlansman” (2018) – A film based on the true story of an African-American police officer who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan.

“Detroit” (2017) – A film that centers on the Algiers Motel incident during Detroit’s 1967 12th Street Riot.

“The Long Walk Home” (1990) – A story set during the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955-56.

“Ghosts of Mississippi” (1996) – A film about the trial of Byron De La Beckwith, the assassin of the civil rights leader Medgar Evers.

“Ruby Bridges” (1998) – A film that tells the true story of Ruby Bridges, the first black child to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans.

“Lee Daniels’ The Butler” (2013) – A film that traces the Civil Rights Movement through the perspective of a White House butler.

“Race” (2016) – A biographical sports drama about Jesse Owens, who faced off against Adolf Hitler’s vision of Aryan supremacy at the 1936 Olympics.

“Freedom Song” (2000) – A film that tells the story of the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi in the 1960s.

“Boycott” (2001) – A film that portrays the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

“The Rosa Parks Story” (2002) – A biographical film about Rosa Parks, whose act of civil disobedience sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

“American Violet” (2008) – A film based on the racially charged drug war scandal in Hearne, Texas, in 2000.

“Remember the Titans” (2000) – A film that tells the true story of a newly appointed African-American coach and his high school team during their first season as a racially integrated unit.

In more detail below, we check out some of the best movies about the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting their significance and impact.

Table of Contents

1. “Selma” (2014)

“Selma” is a critically acclaimed film directed by Ava DuVernay that focuses on the historic 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Dr.

Martin Luther King Jr. The movie vividly portrays the challenges faced by activists as they fought for equal voting rights, including the infamous Bloody Sunday incident.

“Selma” received widespread praise for its powerful performances, accurate historical portrayal, and its ability to capture the spirit of the movement.

2. “The Help” (2011)

Based on Kathryn Stockett’s novel of the same name, “The Help” is set in 1960s Mississippi and tells the story of African American maids working in white households.

The film explores the racial tensions and discrimination faced by these women, as well as their courage in speaking out against injustice.

“The Help” highlights the importance of unity and the power of storytelling in bringing about change.

3. “Hidden Figures” (2016)

“Hidden Figures” is a biographical drama that celebrates the untold contributions of African American women mathematicians at NASA during the Space Race.

The film showcases the challenges faced by these women due to both their gender and race, highlighting their determination and brilliance in overcoming adversity.

“Hidden Figures” sheds light on the intersectionality of discrimination and the importance of diversity in scientific achievements.

4. “12 Years a Slave” (2013)

Directed by Steve McQueen, “12 Years a Slave” is based on the memoir of Solomon Northup, a free African American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 1840s.

The film provides a harrowing depiction of the brutality and dehumanization endured by enslaved individuals, emphasizing the resilience and strength of those who fought for their freedom.

“12 Years a Slave” serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of slavery and the ongoing struggle for equality.

5. “Malcolm X” (1992)

Spike Lee’s “Malcolm X” is a biographical drama that chronicles the life and activism of Malcolm X, one of the most influential figures in the Civil Rights Movement.

The film explores Malcolm X’s transformation from a street hustler to a powerful advocate for black empowerment, highlighting his impact on the movement and his complex relationship with other civil rights leaders.

“Malcolm X” offers a nuanced portrayal of a key figure in the fight for racial equality.

6. “Mississippi Burning” (1988)

“Mississippi Burning” is a crime drama based on the real-life events surrounding the 1964 disappearance of three civil rights activists in Mississippi.

The film follows two FBI agents as they investigate the case and uncover a web of racism, corruption, and violence.

“Mississippi Burning” sheds light on the systemic racism and resistance to change that existed during the Civil Rights Movement.

7. “The Butler” (2013)

Directed by Lee Daniels, “The Butler” is inspired by the life of Eugene Allen, an African American butler who served in the White House for over three decades.

The film provides a unique perspective on the Civil Rights Movement, as seen through the eyes of a man who witnessed history unfold from within the presidential residence.

“The Butler” explores the personal sacrifices made by individuals in their pursuit of justice and equality.

8. “Glory” (1989)

“Glory” is a historical war drama that tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, one of the first African American regiments in the Union Army during the American Civil War.

The film highlights the bravery and resilience of these soldiers as they fought for their freedom and equality on the battlefield.

“Glory” showcases the intersection between the Civil Rights Movement and the fight against slavery.

9. “The Rosa Parks Story” (2002)

“The Rosa Parks Story” is a made-for-television biographical film that chronicles the life of Rosa Parks, a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement.

The movie explores Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, and the subsequent Montgomery Bus Boycott.

“The Rosa Parks Story” celebrates Parks’ courage and determination in sparking a movement that would change history.

10. “Freedom Riders” (2010)

“Freedom Riders” is a documentary film that delves into the story of the Freedom Riders, a group of activists who challenged segregation on interstate buses in the early 1960s.

The film combines archival footage and interviews with the riders themselves, providing a firsthand account of their experiences and the impact they had on the Civil Rights Movement.

“Freedom Riders” offers a comprehensive look at this lesser-known aspect of the movement.

The Importance of Movies in Depicting the Civil Rights Movement

Movies have a unique ability to bring history to life, allowing viewers to experience the emotions and challenges faced by those who fought for civil rights.

They serve as powerful tools for education and awareness, helping to preserve the memory of the movement and inspire future generations.

By watching these films, audiences can gain a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by African Americans during this time and the progress that has been made since then.

FAQs – Best Movies About the Civil Rights Movement

1. What are some must-watch movies about the Civil Rights Movement?

Some must-watch movies about the Civil Rights Movement include “Selma,” “The Help,” “Hidden Figures,” and “12 Years a Slave.”

2. Are these movies historically accurate?

While movies often take creative liberties, many of these films strive to accurately depict the events and emotions of the Civil Rights Movement.

However, it is always recommended to supplement movie viewing with further research for a comprehensive understanding.

3. How can these movies contribute to education about the Civil Rights Movement?

Movies provide a visual and emotional experience that can engage viewers and make history more relatable.

They can spark conversations, encourage further research, and inspire individuals to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement.

4. Are there any documentaries about the Civil Rights Movement?

Yes, there are several documentaries about the Civil Rights Movement, including “Eyes on the Prize,” “Freedom Riders,” and “The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution.”

5. What is the significance of movies like “Selma” and “Hidden Figures”?

Movies like “Selma” and “Hidden Figures” highlight the often overlooked contributions of African Americans to the Civil Rights Movement.

They shed light on the experiences of individuals who played crucial roles in the fight for equality.

6. Can these movies help promote empathy and understanding?

Yes, these movies can help viewers develop empathy by immersing them in the struggles faced by African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement.

They can also foster understanding by providing historical context and showcasing the importance of equality.

7. Are there any movies that focus on specific civil rights activists?

Yes, movies like “Malcolm X” and “The Rosa Parks Story” provide in-depth portrayals of specific civil rights activists and their contributions to the movement.

8. How can these movies inspire future generations?

By showcasing the bravery, resilience, and determination of those who fought for civil rights, these movies can inspire future generations to stand up against injustice and work towards a more equitable society.

9. Are there any movies that explore the intersectionality of discrimination?

“Hidden Figures” is a movie that explores the intersectionality of discrimination by highlighting the challenges faced by African American women in the male-dominated field of mathematics.

10. What is the lasting impact of movies about the Civil Rights Movement?

Movies about the Civil Rights Movement have a lasting impact by preserving the memory of the movement, educating audiences, and inspiring individuals to continue the fight for justice and equality.

11. Who are the most notable figures from the Civil Rights movement?

The most notable figures include:

Martin Luther King Jr.
Malcolm X
Rosa Parks
Thurgood Marshall
Medgar Evers
Ella Baker
Fannie Lou Hamer
Bayard Rustin
James Baldwin
Stokely Carmichael (Kwame Ture)
John Lewis
Huey P. Newton
Angela Davis
Fred Hampton
A. Philip Randolph
Claudette Colvin
Ruby Bridges
Andrew Young
Ralph Abernathy
Coretta Scott King

Summary – Best Movies About the Civil Rights Movement

In conclusion, movies about the Civil Rights Movement play a crucial role in educating and inspiring audiences about this transformative period in American history.

Films like “Selma,” “The Help,” and “Hidden Figures” bring to life the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for racial equality.

They serve as reminders of the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done.

By watching these movies, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement and the importance of continuing to fight for justice and equality.

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