Film Actually: TOP 10: Spotlight on Black Cinema

Friday, February 28, 2014

TOP 10: Spotlight on Black Cinema

When I made my New Year's Movie Resolutions earlier this year, I vowed to watch more black cinema. In light of this, I thought it would be appropriate to revamp this list. So on this final day of Black History Month, I present to you my Top 10 list of my favourite black films, actors and directors:

TOP 10 FILMS
These are some of my absolute favourite films, not just "black films". They cover a wide range of cultures, genres and time periods.

1. City of God

Devastating, Artful and Dazzling in equal measure.

2. 12 Years A Slave

A comprehensive and artful examination of slavery that is sure to linger.

3. Blood Diamond

A gripping, vital tale about the dark side of the diamond industry.

4. The Color Purple

A tremendously moving film with powerhouse performances from its ensemble cast.

5. Do The Right Thing

An incendiary tale that exposes the ugliness of bigotry.

5. Hotel Rwanda

A film that is harrowing and poignant, anchored by an outstanding performance by Don Cheadle.

7. In The Heat of the Night

An interesting take on racism that is fun to watch but is also very thought-provoking.

8. Boyz n the Hood

A heartfelt ode to father-son relationships and the urban struggle.

9. Beasts of the Southern Wild

A gorgeous, poetic film with 2 of the finest acting debuts in years.

10. Django Unchained

Quentin's interpretation of the slavery era is stylish, daring and of course, wildly entertaining.

Jamie Foxx's stunning performance elevates this film to greatness.

TOP 10 ACTORS

This list represents my all-time favourites, taking into account their previous performances. Some of these actors aren't currently active but they have been stellar performers before.

1. Denzel Washington

The perfect combination of movie-star charm and immense talent.

2. Sidney Poitier

An actor of such class and skill that he defied boundaries, paving the way for many black actors today.

3. Don Cheadle

Easily one of the most reliable actors in Hollywood.

4. Djimon Hounsou

An actor of such intense, captivating allure that it's impossible to look away when he's on screen.

5. Viola Davis

An actress of immaculate skill who nails every role she plays.

6. Cicely Tyson

A trailblazer who embodies poise and grace.

7. Will Smith

A real movie star who is never less than interesting.

8. Kerry Washington

A rare blend of striking beauty, talent and intelligence.

9. Morgan Freeman

A living legend who can still act circles around many of today's rising stars.

10. Samuel L. Jackson

The definition of "cool" and "badassness" and one of the best character actors ever.

TOP 10 DIRECTORS

There are lots of great black directors out there, but these are perhaps the ones who were lucky enough to gain access to the resources and exposure to build a significant profile. In case you were wondering, I fully admit to enjoying a few guilty pleasure Tyler Perry films.

1. Spike Lee