What to watch on Netflix for Black History Month
Netflix is celebrating Black History Month with a special collection of titles
Last updated 11th Oct 2022
In the UK, October is Black History Month and this year the theme is Time for Change: Action Not Words. In celebration of Black talent within film and TV as well as shining a light on important stories from Black History, Netflix has put together a collection of titles on their platform.
There are newly released titles like animated music TV special Entergalactic which was added on 30th September and was created by musician Kid Cudi in support of his latest album. Music fans can also enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at Beyoncé's memorable 2018 Coachella performance in Homecoming.
From powerful true stories like When They See Us and The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind, to gripping titles like Western film The Harder They Fall and touching drama Lionheart, there's something for everyone.
Here's our guide on what to watch on Netflix this October:
Entergalactic
Created by musician Kid Cudi and executive producer Kenya Barris, Entergalactic is a romantic comedy following two young artists navigating the twists and turns of finding love in New York City.
The film was released along with Kid Cudi's album of the same name and is full of his music, with main character Jabari also voiced by the artist.
Fatherhood
Fatherhood is a: 'Heartwarming, funny and emotional true story. Kevin Hart stars as a widower taking on one of the toughest jobs in the world: fatherhood.'
Homecoming
Fans of Beyoncé can relive her iconic 2018 Coachella performance and get a behind-the-scenes look in documentary Homecoming.
The film won a Grammy for Best Music Film in 2020 and according to Netflix it gives: 'An intimate look at Beyoncé's historic 2018 Coachella performance that paid homage to America's historically black colleges and universities. Interspersed with candid footage and interviews detailing the preparation and powerful intent behind her vision, Homecoming traces the emotional road from creative concept to cultural movement.'
The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind
In this incredible true story: 'Against all the odds, a thirteen-year-old boy in Malawi invents an unconventional way to save his family and village from famine. Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba.'
The Harder They Fall
Netflix says: 'In this Western, outlaw Nat Love (Jonathan Majors) discovers that his enemy, Rufus Buck (Idris Elba), is being released from prison, so he reunites his gang to track Rufus down and seek revenge.'
Becoming
Becoming is about the life of former First Lady Michelle Obama. The film follows her: 'During a moment of profound change, not only for her personally but for the country she and her husband served over eight impactful years in the White House.
'The film offers a rare and up-close look at her life, taking viewers behind the scenes as she embarks on a 34-city tour that highlights the power of community to bridge our divides and the spirit of connection that comes when we openly and honestly share our stories.'
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
Looking back to the 1920s, in this film: ''Tensions and temperatures rise over the course of an afternoon recording session in 1920s Chicago as a band of musicians await trailblazing performer, the legendary "Mother of the Blues," Ma Rainey (Academy Award winner Viola Davis).
'Late to the session, the fearless, fiery Ma engages in a battle of wills with her white manager and producer over control of her music.'
Uncorked
The synopsis for Uncorked reads: 'Fueled by his love for wine, Elijah enrolls in a course to become a master sommelier, an elite designation given only to a handful who are able to pass its notoriously difficult exam.
'It's a dream that upends the expectations of his father, Louis (Courtney B. Vance), who insists Elijah take over the popular Memphis barbeque joint that's been passed down from father to son since its inception.
'Elijah struggles with the demands of school and a new relationship, while Louis wrestles with the feelings of his son rejecting the family business until a tragedy forces both of them to slow things down.'
When They See Us
About When They See Us: 'Based on a true story that gripped the country, When They See Us will chronicle the notorious case of five teenagers of color, labeled the Central Park Five, who were convicted of a rape they did not commit.
'The four part limited series will focus on the five teenagers from Harlem - Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Yusef Salaam, Raymond Santana and Korey Wise.'
Lionheart
The synopsis for drama Lionheart reads: 'When Adaeze's father falls ill, she decides to take charge of their family business. However, with the arrival of her eccentric uncle, chaos ensues.'
Is That Black Enough For You?!?
According to Netflix: 'This film is both a documentary and deeply personal essay. The film examines the craft and power of cinema from a perspective often overlooked: the African American contribution to films released from the landmark era of the 70s.
'It is a deep dive into the impact that point of view had on movies, as well as popular culture, and serves as a love letter to film, posing questions that have never been asked, let alone answered.'
It features director Charles Burnett, Samuel L. Jackson, Whoopi Goldberg, Laurence Fishburne, and Zendaya.
You can stream all of these titles on Netflix now.
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