Unmissable African American Movies of 2017: A Cinematic Journey

Alright, guys, buckle up as we dive into the vibrant world of African American cinema in 2017! This year was filled with powerful storytelling, captivating performances, and a whole lot of representation. So, grab your popcorn and let's explore some of the best African American movies from 2017. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and african american movies 2017.

Get Out: A Horror Masterpiece

Kicking off our list is Get Out, a groundbreaking horror film that left audiences on the edge of their seats. Directed by Jordan Peele, this movie is more than just a scary flick; it's a social commentary on racism wrapped in a suspenseful package. The story follows Chris Washington, a young African American man who visits his white girlfriend's family estate, only to find himself in a terrifying situation.

Get Out was a massive success, grossing over $255 million worldwide against a modest budget of $4.5 million. It also received critical acclaim, with many praising its unique blend of horror and social commentary. The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and was nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor (Daniel Kaluuya).

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Now, let's talk about the cultural phenomenon that took the world by storm – Black Panther. This superhero film, based on the Marvel Comics character, was a game-changer in African American cinema and the comic book genre as a whole.

Directed by Ryan Coogler, Black Panther tells the story of T'Challa, the king of Wakanda, a fictional African country that's secretly the most advanced nation in the world. The film is packed with stunning visuals, powerful performances, and a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, power, and responsibility.

Black Panther was a massive commercial success, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide. It also made history as the first superhero film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards. The film's impact extended beyond the box office, inspiring conversations about representation, African culture, and the future of cinema.

The Big Sick: A Heartfelt Comedy-Drama

Next up, we have The Big Sick, a romantic comedy-drama based on the real-life courtship between comedian Kumail Nanjiani and his wife, Emily V. Gordon. Directed by Michael Showalter, this film offers a unique perspective on interracial relationships, cultural differences, and the challenges of pursuing a career in comedy.

The Big Sick received critical acclaim for its humor, heart, and Nanjiani's standout performance. The film was nominated for several awards, including a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and a Writers Guild of America Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Mudbound: A Story of Resilience

Mudbound is a powerful period drama that tells the story of two families, one white and one black, who struggle to survive and prosper in the Mississippi Delta during the 1940s. Directed by Dee Rees, this film is a poignant exploration of racism, poverty, and the American Dream.

Mudbound was a critical darling, with many praising its powerful performances, stunning cinematography, and compelling narrative. The film was nominated for several awards, including four Academy Awards (Best Supporting Actress – Mary J. Blige, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Best Original Song).

Fences: A August Wilson Masterclass

Fences, directed by Denzel Washington, is an adaptation of August Wilson's Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name. The film follows Troy Maxson, a sanitation worker in 1950s Pittsburgh, as he struggles to provide for his family and grapples with the limitations of his own life.

Fences was a critical and commercial success, with many praising Washington's direction and the powerful performances of its cast. The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Denzel Washington), Best Supporting Actress (Viola Davis), and Best Adapted Screenplay.

I Am Not Your Negro: A Powerful Documentary

Last but certainly not least, we have I Am Not Your Negro, a powerful documentary directed by Raoul Peck. This film is a searing examination of race relations in America, based on James Baldwin's unfinished manuscript "Remember This House." Using Baldwin's words and a wealth of archival footage, I Am Not Your Negro is a timely and powerful exploration of the African American experience.

I Am Not Your Negro was a critical darling, receiving numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature. The film was also named one of the best documentaries of the year by numerous critics' groups.

Conclusion: African American Cinema in 2017

And there you have it, folks – a whistle-stop tour of some of the best African American movies from 2017. This year was a standout one for African American cinema, with films that entertained, inspired, and challenged us. So, whether you're in the mood for a horror thriller, a superhero epic, or a powerful documentary, there was something for everyone in 2017.

As we look to the future of African American cinema, we can only hope that the momentum of 2017 continues. With talented filmmakers, actors, and writers pushing the boundaries of what's possible, there's no telling what incredible stories we'll see on the big screen next. So, keep your eyes peeled, and your popcorn at the ready – it's going to be one heck of a ride!