Black History Month is here. Every February in the United States is a time to honor and reflect upon the significant achievements, contributions, and cultural impact of people of African descent throughout history.
Nigeria stands at the heart of black culture, in the US and beyond, not just as the most populous African country but also as a global creative powerhouse. Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, has become a global force with the topics of migration, resilience, and cultural preservation. Nollywood depictions of black people’s hardships and triumphs are loved by both the Nigerian-American diaspora of over 700,000, and 220 million Nigerians back home and across the world.
In this curated selection of Black History Month movies on UVOtv, we give the well-deserved stage to African-American and Nigerian filmmakers whose work showcases the depth and diversity of their cultural experiences.
Let these Black History Month stories make you laugh, cry, and wonder.
Children of Mud
⭐ 4.7/5
Directed by: Imoh Umoren
Imoh Umoren grew up in a Nigerian household of blended backgrounds: with a politician and a professor for parents. His mother’s influences parked his passion for storytelling, and now there are a few nationally recognized black history movies.
One of them is Children of Mud, a powerful drama inspired by real-life events. Emem, a young woman, and her blind brother, Miracle, are forced to leave their home after being kicked out by their aunt. With nowhere to turn, they embark on a difficult journey through the harsh streets, driven by a fragile hope for a better future. The movie gained recognition, earning nominations at multiple film festivals, including the Nigeria Entertainment Awards and AMVCA.
Dear Bayo
⭐ 4.4/5
Directed by: Imoh Umoren
Another compelling and unconventional story from a Nollywood indie scene trailblazer challenges the norms and adds an aching pinch of drama.
The film follows Bayo, a young man and a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, and Ebipade, a young woman he meets during his assignment. Both come from modest backgrounds and are immediately drawn to each other. Their budding romance is challenged continuously by society and their personal beliefs, as they strive to be together.
BLINQ
⭐ 4.5/5
Directed by: Skinny Corleone
‘Blinq’ is a 2023 thriller, featuring a gripping narrative concerning online fame and its unforeseen consequences—with mystery and sci-fi thrown in the mix.
Amanda’s on her routine grocery trip when her day takes an unexpected turn. Her random encounter in the store goes viral online, teleporting (you will get the reference later) her into the spotlight, and Amanda becomes the target of a mysterious assailant. What begins as one of millions of recordings of public banter transforms into a horrifying fight for survival.
Undying
⭐ 4.8/5
Directed by: Shaeed Apaqnpa
With the goal to transform the Nigerian film industry, Shaeed Apaqnpa has brought his 20-year experience in the US to direct over 50 pictures, with some bound to end up on the list of Black History Month movies to watch.
A 2021 drama with a romantic flair tells the story of a young man who, after a serious car accident, faces a tough choice: let his wife go or hold on to hope.
Besieged
⭐ 4.8/5
Directed by: Ike Nnaebue
Ike Nnaebue is a film director, screenwriter, and producer, widely recognized for his contributions to Nigerian cinema—his latest documentary, No U-Turn, received a Special Mention Award at Berlinale 2022. The topics for his movies span across pressing social issues like mental health, illegal migration, and human trafficking.
In ‘Besieged’, A dream date ends up in psychological warfare. What was supposed to be an exciting first date with a rich, handsome guy turns into a nightmare for a TV personality.
Naked Lies
⭐ 4.8/5
Directed by: Emeka Madu
Drama is a beloved genre for both black and specifically African audiences, and Naked Lies director Emeka Madu does a perfect job of marrying it with suspense and romance.
The film centers on three lifelong friends, each with distinct personalities, whose lives become entangled in a web of deception and betrayal. As they navigate personal ambitions and relationships, there are a few unexpected plot twists to keep you hooked. Hidden truths surface, challenging their bond and forcing them to confront the consequences of their actions.
Explore More Films During Black History Month
Black cinema transcends continents and has so much more to offer. If you crave more movies to watch this Black History Month, browse African cinema and Afro-American stories tags.
