Explore 193 Iconic Films in Black Exploitation Cinema History
193 titles
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Emma MaeMovie · 1976 · 100mA young woman from the South relocates to Compton to live with her aunt and uncle. Initially struggling to adjust as an outsider, she becomes involved with a group of local youths. Through this experience, she increasingly witnesses the city's systemic inequalities.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.7 - 2
Black ShampooMovie · 1976 · 82mA Black hairdresser's affairs with married clients escalate into a dangerous situation when he crosses paths with a vengeful mobster.IMDb 4.7TMDB 4.5 - 3
CoffyMovie · 1973 · 90m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA dedicated nurse's life is destroyed when her younger sister falls into the dangerous world of drugs. After her sister is harmed by contaminated heroin, the nurse begins a difficult journey seeking revenge on those responsible for her family's suffering.
She confronts drug dealers, pimps, and mobsters, delivering calculated justice to those who perpetuate the cycle of addiction and pain. The film explores themes of vengeance, justice, and the impact of addiction, revealing the dark side of urban crime and its personal cost. This compelling drama follows the nurse's quest for vindication, keeping audiences engaged as she fights for justice in a world where it feels impossible to find.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 4
Black Emanuelle 2Movie · 1976 · 91mEmanuelle, a fashion model, suffers a psychotic episode each time she has sex. Traumatized by past sexual abuse – including by men in her family, like her father – she seeks help from Dr. Gardner at his mental health center. He offers treatment as she resides there.IMDb 4.1TMDB 4.3 - 5
Death ForceMovie · 1978 · 110mJames Iglehart, also known as Doug Russell, is an American who steals a gold shipment in the Philippines with two Vietnam War veterans. They kill him and abandon him on a deserted island. There, he's found by two Japanese soldiers who have been stranded there since World War II. They help him recover and teach him martial arts and the ways of the samurai. Meanwhile, back in the U.S., Russell’s betraying accomplices, Marelli and Maghee, use the stolen gold to aggressively expand their influence in the Los Angeles mafia.IMDb 5.4TMDB 4.9 - 6
BaadAsssss CinemaMovie · 2002 · 58mUsing archival footage and interviews, this short exploration of a often-overlooked era in cinema serves as an introduction rather than a comprehensive history. It includes interviews with prominent stars of the genre, including Fred Williamson, Pam Grier, and Richard Roundtree. Director Melvin Van Peebles discusses the significance of his influential film *Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song*. Quentin Tarantino offers his enthusiastic insights, while author and critic bell hooks provides thoughtful social analysis.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9 - 7
Black CaesarMovie · 1973 · 95m · Action, Crime, DramaIn Harlem, New York, Tommy Gibbs lives a tough life marked by crime and inequality. He's deeply affected by a past encounter with a corrupt police officer that left him physically and emotionally scarred, fueling a desire for revenge. As Tommy rises in the criminal world, his pursuit of justice becomes closely linked to his ambition for power. The story follows how his journey, shaped by hardship and prejudice, shows how the drive for authority can define a life forged in adversity.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.8 - 8
Cotton Comes to HarlemMovie · 1970 · 97m · Action, Comedy, CrimeIn Harlem, African-American residents are drawn in by Rev. Deke O'Malley's offer of land in Africa, funded by small donations. Detectives Gravedigger Jones and Coffin Ed Johnson investigate this scheme and uncover a hidden method: the money is concealed inside a bale of cotton. As chaos erupts and power shifts, the money disappears, and O'Malley and others desperately try to recover or regain the stolen funds. This story unfolds against Harlem's social backdrop, examining exploitation, corruption, and justice within a complicated network of lies.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 9
Body and SoulMovie · 1981 · 109mA young man fights his way towards becoming a boxing champion, but the pursuit of victory ultimately consumes him. It is the love of his girlfriend that helps him rediscover what truly matters.IMDb 4.7TMDB 3.7 - 10
The Dynamite BrothersMovie · 1974 · 90mA young Black man joins forces with a Chinese martial arts expert to take down a drug trafficking organization.IMDb 3.8TMDB 4.0 - 11
The Big Doll HouseMovie · 1971 · 95m · Action, DramaFive women and two men are imprisoned in a Philippine jail where they face brutal torture and mistreatment. To survive, the women form a strong bond and plan a daring escape. The film shows how far these people will go for freedom and justice, highlighting their courage, camaraderie, and resilience in the face of a broken system. They endure difficult experiences and emotional challenges, ultimately executing an exciting breakout. It's a story about determination and courage when facing impossible odds.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.6 - 12
Super Fly T.N.T.Movie · 1973 · 87mA Harlem drug dealer and his girlfriend seek a new life in Rome, but his plans for retirement are disrupted when he becomes involved in an African revolution.IMDb 4.4TMDB 5.5 - 13
Foxy BrownMovie · 1974 · 94m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA determined African American woman enters the dangerous world of escort services after her boyfriend is murdered by mobsters. She uses this new life as a way to get revenge. This dark film explores power, seduction, and redemption through a story about her inner strength and resourcefulness. Navigating organized crime, she finds that trust is rare and loyalty is expensive. It's a compelling drama centered on a strong female character fighting to avenge her lover's death in a tale of courage and retribution.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 14
Slaughter's Big Rip-OffMovie · 1973 · 93mVigilante Slaughter is attacked by Duncan, a local money launderer. Duncan's hit-man traps Slaughter in a car at a cliff, but Slaughter escapes, arms himself, and goes after Duncan's hideout.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.4 - 15
The Six Thousand Dollar NiggerMovie · 1979 · 80mSteve, a homeless man, agrees to be part of an experimental drug trial. Unbeknownst to him, the doctor running the trial is a criminal with plans to create an invincible thief. The drug gives Steve superhuman abilities, like those of Superman. After exacting revenge on those who have wronged him, Steve discovers the doctor's true intentions for him.IMDb 4.5TMDB 2.6 - 16
Sweet Jesus, PreachermanMovie · 1973 · 90mA Black hit man hides his true identity by working as a Baptist preacher in an inner-city church. He makes the decision to seize control of the area's criminal operations.IMDb 5.0TMDB 6.0 - 17
Greased LightningMovie · 1977 · 96m · Action, Comedy, DramaThe true story of Wendell Scott is brought to life, following his relentless drive for success in a racially divided era of NASCAR. As the first Black driver to win a major NASCAR race, Scott's journey was marked by constant obstacles and unwavering determination.
The film explores his early life as a driver honing his skills on rough roads, leading to a professional racing career where he battled prejudice. Despite facing continuous adversity because of his race, Scott’s talent and persistence pushed him to the top of the sport, achieving a historic victory in a top-level NASCAR event.
This moving story highlights human strength and the need to overcome societal barriers. The biopic celebrates Wendell Scott's life and legacy, revealing the struggles he endured to become a pioneer in NASCAR history.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3 - 18
That Man BoltMovie · 1973 · 103mFred Williamson stars as Jefferson Bolt, a Kung Fu expert tasked with transporting $1 million from Hong Kong to Mexico City, with a layover in Los Angeles. Bolt learns the money is connected to the mob and his girlfriend has been murdered. He returns to Asia to seek revenge.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.8 - 19
HonkyMovie · 1971 · 92mSheila, a wealthy Black teenager, starts a relationship with Wayne, a working-class white teenager, and asks him to help her sell a kilogram of marijuana.IMDb 4.9TMDB 4.3 - 20
Together BrothersMovie · 1974 · 94mA group of young people from a disadvantaged neighborhood investigate the death of a well-known police officer.IMDb 6.5TMDB 4.2 - 21
Short EyesMovie · 1977 · 100m · Drama, CrimeThis drama follows a young man who enters the harsh world of New York's Tombs prison after being accused of child molestation. Inside, his innocence is challenged by the prison's brutal realities, and he becomes a target for other inmates seeking revenge. The film explores themes of justice and survival as he struggles to navigate the dangerous prison environment and confront his past.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 22
Cool BreezeMovie · 1972 · 101mA recently paroled criminal plans a $3 million jewelry heist. His goal: to establish a bank specifically for business owners.IMDb 5.4TMDB 4.8 - 23
Original GangstasMovie · 1996 · 99m · Action, Drama, CrimeIn Gary, Indiana, the Rebels, a violent street gang, rule their territory with impunity. When storekeeper Marvin Bookman, the father of John Bookman – a former NFL star and the Rebels' leader – provides the police with vital information about the gang, it triggers a series of tragic events.
Betrayed by his father, John returns home determined to protect his family and dismantle the Rebels from within. With the help of loyal friends who share his desire for justice, he undertakes a dangerous mission that forces him to question his beliefs about loyalty, friendship, and forgiveness.
As tensions escalate and old bonds are strained, the story reveals the harsh realities of gang life and follows one man's desperate fight to make amends for the past and save his city from escalating chaos.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.6 - 24
Baadasssss!Movie · 2004 · 108m · DramaMario Van Peebles directs a revealing look at his father Melvin's groundbreaking 1971 film, "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song." Van Peebles, who also plays his father in the film, delivers a frank account of Melvin's often unconventional and sometimes manipulative behavior during production. He details incidents such as writing bad checks, deceiving a fire department, and involving his young son, Mario, in filming explicit scenes when Mario was just 11 years old.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5 - 25
Black Dragon's RevengeMovie · 1975 · 85mThree competing gangs race to find Bruce Lee's lost handwritten manual on martial arts techniques.IMDb 4.8TMDB 4.6 - 26
The Guy from HarlemMovie · 1977 · 86mAl Connors, a hardened private investigator with a past in Harlem now working in Florida, is hired by the CIA to protect a visiting African princess. Simultaneously, Connors employs his street smarts and fighting skills to locate a woman kidnapped by the ruthless Big Daddy.IMDb 2.6TMDB 3.0 - 27
Dr. Black, Mr. HydeMovie · 1979 · 85mA Black doctor creates a serum designed to regenerate damaged liver cells and tests it on himself. The serum unexpectedly transforms him into an albino monster consumed by a desire to kill prostitutes, pimps, and drug dealers.IMDb 5.2TMDB 4.4 - 28
The BaronMovie · 1977 · 89mA Black filmmaker pursues his vision of an all-Black movie, but securing funding requires a dangerous deal with the Mafia.IMDb 5.4TMDB 4.5 - 29
Ebony, Ivory & JadeMovie · 1976 · 76mAn American track team arrives in the Philippines for an international competition. Among the athletes are Ginger, nicknamed "Ivory," and Pam, nicknamed "Ebony," who reunite with their friend Jackie, nicknamed "Jade." Shortly after checking into their hotel, a gang kidnaps them and other girls from the team. To escape, the three friends must rely on their fighting abilities.IMDb 4.6TMDB 6.3 - 30
Aaron Loves AngelaMovie · 1975 · 99mAaron and Angela, two young people deeply in love, live in the Harlem ghetto of New York City. Their families, however, oppose their relationship. Aaron is Black, and Angela is Puerto Rican, and neither family approves of them being together. As Aaron and Angela defy their families' prejudices, the conflict extends to their friends and neighbors, threatening to escalate into widespread hatred.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.3 - 31
CoonskinMovie · 1975 · 83m · Drama, Animation, ComedyIn Harlem, three unlikely friends – Brother Rabbit, a sharp hustler; Brother Bear, a strong and determined man; and Preacher Fox, a persuasive speaker with secrets – team up to fight the powerful crime organizations controlling their community. They face a deceitful con artist, a prejudiced cop working for them, and the ruthless Mafia. As they gain power, their bond grows stronger through shared hardship. Ultimately, they succeed by using their individual skills and strengths. This story is about loyalty, finding redemption, and the strength of friendship in a world full of corruption and prejudice.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1 - 32
The TakeMovie · 1974 · 91mIn New Mexico, a police officer accepts a bribe but secretly works to bring down a powerful criminal.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.3 - 33
Black HollywoodMovie · 1984 · 85mFilmed entirely on location in Hollywood during 1984, this documentary examines the contributions of Black actors, Black directors, and the Black audience to American cinema.IMDb 7.0 - 34
Way of the Black DragonMovie · 1978 · 88mAllison Wong is kidnapped by a criminal gang involved in drug smuggling, human trafficking, and prostitution. An Interpol agent, Bill Eaton, along with an honest local worker, Chen, and Allison's brother team up to dismantle the dangerous organization.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.5 - 35
Gordon's WarMovie · 1973 · 90mAfter serving in Vietnam, a Black soldier returns to Harlem to find his wife has become a heroin addict and died from an overdose. Enraged by this discovery, he assembles three fellow Vietnam veterans, and together they begin planning a confrontation with the drug dealers responsible.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7 - 36
Brother JohnMovie · 1971 · 95mA mysterious man goes back to his Alabama hometown when his sister is seriously ill with cancer, drawing the attention and distrust of prominent local figures.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 37
No Way BackMovie · 1976 · 103mCrowder, a morally flexible private investigator, tracks a gangster who is trying to recover stolen funds.IMDb 5.2TMDB 3.2 - 38
Cleopatra JonesMovie · 1973 · 89m · Action, Crime, ThrillerFederal agent Cleopatra Jones initiates a dangerous mission to destroy a Turkish opium farm controlled by the ruthless drug lord Mommy. This act triggers Mommy's vengeful campaign against Cleopatra. Facing escalating danger, Cleopatra must use her skills and determination to dismantle Mommy's criminal organization while evading his deadly plans. The film explores themes of power, justice, and the impact of drugs and crime. Packed with action and drama, this suspenseful story keeps viewers engaged.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.6 - 39
Amazing GraceMovie · 1974 · 99mIn Baltimore, a widow becomes involved in the mayoral race when she uncovers a scheme. The incumbent mayor is exploiting a Black candidate to boost his chances of winning reelection. Determined to counter this, the widow attempts to sway the election in her own direction.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.6 - 40
BamboozledMovie · 2000 · 136m · Comedy, DramaProducer Pierre Delacroix, after being rejected by his network for his sitcom idea, deliberately pitches the worst concept imaginable: a 21st-century minstrel show, hoping to get fired. Instead, the network airs it and it unexpectedly becomes a huge success.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2 - 41
BlackensteinMovie · 1973 · 87mA Vietnam veteran, Eddie, loses his arms and legs in a landmine explosion. A skilled surgeon performs a groundbreaking procedure to replace his limbs. However, the surgeon's envious assistant, who is secretly in love with Eddie's fiancée, sabotages the treatment by swapping Eddie’s DNA injections. The result is a terrifying transformation, turning Eddie into a monstrous killer.IMDb 3.5TMDB 3.1 - 42
Disco GodfatherMovie · 1979 · 93m · Action, Comedy, CrimeFormer police officer Tucker Williams, known as 'The Disco Godfather,' takes on a personal mission when he learns a dangerous new drug, Angel Dust, is causing problems in his community. As the drug spreads, Tucker uses his past experience and his career as a DJ to fight those responsible. The film is about redemption, justice, and one man's determination against social problems. It features suspenseful action and a realistic portrayal of urban life, offering both drama and a look at current issues.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.4 - 43
Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of GoldMovie · 1975 · 94m · Action, Adventure, DramaWhen friends and colleagues vanish during a mission in Hong Kong, Cleopatra Jones steps in to investigate. Her search leads her to The Dragon Lady, a powerful figure who controls a casino and the city's drug supply.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.7 - 44
Gil Scott-Heron: The Revolution Will Not Be TelevisedMovie · 2003 · 60mGil Scott-Heron was a highly influential musician and poet for the past half-century. In Don Letts's documentary, Gil recounts his life story for the first time, from his experience as one of the first Black children to integrate a white school in the South to his emergence as a key figure in rap music. The film features appearances by Chuck D, Mos Def, Richi Havens, and the Last Poets, among others. Shot in October 2003, the documentary captures Gil performing live and reciting poetry in Harlem, drawing from the streets that have deeply influenced his work.IMDb 7.1 - 45
Darktown StruttersMovie · 1975 · 90mWhen a well-known abortion clinic owner disappears along with several other prominent members of the Black community, her singer daughter and her friends from a female biker gang launch an investigation.IMDb 4.8TMDB 4.7 - 46
Black AngelsMovie · 1970 · 87mA misunderstanding leads an African-American biker gang to believe a white biker gang is plotting violence. This false information ignites a dangerous escalation, resulting in widespread conflict.IMDb 4.4TMDB 4.4 - 47
Eve's BayouMovie · 1997 · 109m · DramaIn 1962 Louisiana, the Batiste family in the small town of Eve's Bayou faces hidden truths and unexpected difficulties as summer progresses. Long-held secrets emerge, challenging their family's unity. The Batistes grapple with betrayal and sorrow while trying to hold onto their relationships and community harmony. This drama portrays human strength and relationship complexities within an idyllic Southern setting, showing the effort required to overcome hardship and remain true to oneself.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4 - 48
ClaudineMovie · 1974 · 92m · Drama, Romance, ComedyIn New York City, Claudine, a single mother working as a maid in wealthy suburbs, finds her life changing when she meets Roop, a charming but impulsive garbage collector. They quickly fall in love, but Claudine struggles to reconcile this new relationship with her responsibilities to her six children. Roop, though a good person, is unsure about the commitment of fatherhood. The story follows them as they navigate the difficulties of love, family, and societal pressures while trying to define the future of their relationship.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 49
Car WashMovie · 1976 · 97m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceThis comedy follows a diverse group of friends working at Sully Boyar's Car Wash in a busy Los Angeles neighborhood. They spend their day cleaning cars and sharing laughs while dealing with a variety of customers, from preachers to cab drivers and ex-convicts.
Set in the 1970s, the film features a disco and funk soundtrack and witty, sometimes edgy humor. The workers navigate romantic relationships and maintain a positive attitude despite the difficulties of their jobs. It's a look at finding hope through music and laughter amidst everyday life, showcasing the challenges and successes of these vibrant characters.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.9 - 50
HammerMovie · 1972 · 92mB.J. Hammer is a quick-tempered worker who frequently resorts to fighting. After a notable victory in a workplace brawl, his talent attracts the attention of Davis, a prominent boxing manager. Hammer is signed and quickly earns a good living as a boxer, but soon discovers Davis wants him to fix fights and participate in illegal dealings. Hammer responds with anger, sparking a bitter conflict between them.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.2 - 51
Truck TurnerMovie · 1974 · 91m · Drama, Action, ThrillerIn Los Angeles, bounty hunters Truck Turner and Jerry chase criminals for a living. They are hired to find Gator, a pimp who has escaped from jail, and the job becomes more complicated than expected.
As Turner and Jerry investigate, they uncover a larger network of crime. Their pursuit of Gator turns into a dangerous game, forcing them to confront their past while navigating the city's criminal world.
The story examines loyalty, redemption, and the difficult choices people make to survive. As they get closer to capturing Gator, the lines between hunter and hunted begin to blur.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4 - 52
Watermelon ManMovie · 1970 · 100m · ComedyAn ordinary insurance agent in a small town wakes up one morning to discover his skin has changed overnight. A man known for his prejudice and harassment of African Americans must now experience racism firsthand.
This drama explores introspection, empathy, and change as he navigates a society that treats him differently. As his life unravels because he cannot reverse the change, he confronts the consequences of his past and the reality faced by many in a powerful journey of self-discovery.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 53
Solomon KingMovie · 1974 · 85mFormer CIA operative Solomon King is consumed by a desire for revenge after his girlfriend is murdered. He employs his extensive skills and past experiences as a detective to pursue the killer, leading him on a journey to a remote desert region in the Middle East.IMDb 4.7TMDB 5.6 - 54
Lady Sings the BluesMovie · 1972 · 144m · Drama, MusicThis film explores the complicated life of blues icon Billie Holiday, following her journey from a difficult childhood to her rise to fame and subsequent struggles. The story reveals the experiences that shaped her career, including early tours, relationships – including her marriages – and a lifelong battle with drug addiction. It offers a candid look at the personal demons she faced and the powerful voice she created, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on the world of blues music.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 55
Django UnchainedMovie · 2012 · 165m · Drama, WesternA freed slave teams up with a German bounty hunter to rescue his wife from a cruel plantation owner in Mississippi.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.2 - 56
I'm Gonna Git You SuckaMovie · 1988 · 88m · Comedy, Action, CrimeAfter years serving his country, Jack Spade returns to his city to find his world shattered. His younger brother, June Bug, has been murdered by Mr. Big, a powerful crime boss who controls the neighborhood. Determined to avenge his brother, Jack wages war against Mr. Big's criminal empire.
He teams up with John Slade, a figure from Jack's past who was once feared by local criminals in the 1970s. Together, this unlikely pair navigates a dangerous world of crime and betrayal. Their bond, formed through shared grief, becomes a symbol of hope as they fight to bring down Mr. Big. In their pursuit of justice, Jack and Slade must face their own pasts and discover what it truly means to be heroes.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 57
Hit ManMovie · 1972 · 90mBernie Casey is Tyrone, and Pamela Grier plays a seductive adult film star in this first American adaptation of Michael Caine's Get Carter. Tyrone's journey takes him across Los Angeles, from the Watts neighborhood to the West Side, through adult entertainment venues, upscale buildings, seedy motels, and a crime boss’s lavish estate, as he confronts numerous adversaries.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.7 - 58
The Last DragonMovie · 1985 · 108m · Action, Adventure, MusicThis action-adventure film follows a young man's search for a legendary "master," said to possess the secret to achieving the highest level of martial arts – the "glow." His difficult journey involves overcoming many trials that test his strength and fighting ability. He faces opposition from a ruthless martial artist determined to stop him.
His quest changes when he encounters a singer held captive by a controlling music promoter. He rescues her, and his pursuit of martial arts mastery becomes intertwined with protecting her. Along the way, he learns about himself and the importance of compassion and friendship. His interactions with diverse individuals add layers to his journey, leading to a final confrontation that challenges both his skills and his principles.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 59
In the Shadow of Hollywood: Race Movies and the Birth of Black CinemaMovie · 2007 · 59mThis documentary explores the world of "race movies," films made by African American filmmakers and studios for black audiences during a largely overlooked period in cinema. Many of these films challenged the negative stereotypes of Black Americans common in mainstream culture. Approximately 500 films were created, but fewer than 100 survive today. Pioneers like Oscar Micheaux, the Noble brothers, and Spencer Williams, Jr. profoundly influenced subsequent generations of Black filmmakers and offered audiences a rare opportunity to see their own lives represented on screen.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 60
Lady CocoaMovie · 1975 · 93mCocoa gets a 24-hour prison leave if she testifies against her mob boyfriend. Back on the streets, she soon finds herself facing constant danger.IMDb 4.7TMDB 4.2 - 61
Black Mama, White MamaMovie · 1973 · 87m · Action, Crime, ThrillerThe film centers on two women, a revolutionary and a former harem girl, who are forced into a reluctant alliance. They journey through dangerous landscapes, facing physical challenges and confronting their own pasts as they struggle to coexist. Their uneasy partnership escalates into conflict involving gangsters and revolutionaries, leading to violent confrontations. The story explores themes of rebellion, power, and freedom as the women fight to survive and achieve their goals in a harsh world. It’s a gritty look at the complexities of two strong women bound together by circumstance.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.3 - 62
Bustin' LooseMovie · 1981 · 94m · Comedy, DramaFormer convict Joe Braxton gets an unexpected opportunity to change his life when he accidentally breaks his probation. He's given a second chance: transport a group of special children across the country.
During the trip, Joe faces the challenges of a long journey while forming connections with the children. Their interactions help him rediscover compassion and forgiveness. The film explores themes of redemption, trust, and personal growth through an engaging road trip adventure.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1 - 63
Boyz n the HoodMovie · 1991 · 112m · Crime, DramaAgainst the backdrop of Los Angeles, this drama follows Furious, a father trying to teach his teenage son Tre right from wrong. Furious wants a better future for Tre, but Tre and his friends are drawn into a dangerous street war that endangers their entire community. The story explores family, loyalty, and the difficult choices people face when balancing their own desires with the pressures of their surroundings, amidst a world of drugs, robberies, and violence.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 64
MandingoMovie · 1975 · 127m · Romance, Drama, HistoryTo secure the future of his plantation, Warren Maxwell pressures his son Hammond to marry and have children. Hammond agrees to marry his cousin Blanche, but after their honeymoon, he buys a slave. Warren then introduces Hammond to Mede, a Mandingo slave intended for both combat training and breeding to strengthen the family line. The story explores themes of inheritance, power, and exploitation in 19th-century America.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6 - 65
J.D.'s RevengeMovie · 1976 · 95m · Horror, ThrillerSet in 1970s New Orleans, this crime drama follows J.D. Walker, a notorious gangster killed in the 1940s, as he seeks revenge. Unable to find peace, Walker's spirit takes advantage of a hypnotist's nightclub act to briefly inhabit the body of a shy law student. In this new form, Walker pursues those who ordered his death, struggling with his unfamiliar body and the evolving criminal world. The story explores vengeance, identity, and the fight for power in a city haunted by its past.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.7 - 66
YoungbloodMovie · 1978 · 90mA Vietnam veteran, consumed by anger, becomes the leader of a Los Angeles street gang and wages a personal war against drug dealers.IMDb 5.9TMDB 4.2 - 67
The Soul of Nigger CharleyMovie · 1973 · 110mFollowing the Civil War, Charley finds himself in conflict with a band of Confederate soldiers determined to revive the old South.IMDb 5.5TMDB 4.4 - 68
The Monkey HustleMovie · 1976 · 90mA proposed highway poses a threat to a Chicago neighborhood, prompting the residents to organize a block party as a form of protest.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.6 - 69
The Final ComedownMovie · 1972 · 83mDriven by prejudice, a young Black man is radicalized and becomes an armed militant leader, convinced that violent revolution is the only solution to racism.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.2 - 70
Ganja & HessMovie · 1973 · 113m · Drama, Fantasy, HorrorA dedicated doctor's life changes drastically when he's afflicted by an ancient curse after a seemingly minor cut with an old blade. He develops an uncontrollable craving for blood, forcing him to confront a terrifying transformation. The film explores his struggle with this new reality, questioning his identity and morality as he grapples with his altered nature. Balancing suspenseful action with moments of reflection, it's a gripping story that examines the blurred line between human and monster.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.8 - 71
Take a Hard RideMovie · 1975 · 103m · Action, WesternIn the American West, the sudden death of a cattle rancher leaves his trusted foreman, Pike, with a crucial mission: deliver $86,000 in cash to families in Sonora, Mexico. Driven by his strong sense of honor, Pike undertakes this difficult journey across harsh lands. He enlists Tyree, a mysterious gambler known for his trickery and unreliable nature, to help. Their differing personalities create a captivating adventure as they face wilderness obstacles and forge an unexpected connection despite their contrasting views on life and loyalty.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.2 - 72
Sheba, BabyMovie · 1975 · 90m · Action, Drama, ThrillerA seasoned Chicago private detective, Sheba, returns to her hometown of Louisville when news arrives about her father. Once a respected figure, he's now caught in the dangerous world of organized crime, fighting to control his life. Loyal to her father, Sheba enters the criminal underworld, navigating deception and betrayal. She must confront escalating threats to protect him and restore her family's honor. This intense story explores bravery, loyalty, and redemption as Sheba balances her skills with the complexities of her relationship with her father and her own identity, set against the contrasting landscapes of Chicago and Louisville.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.7 - 73
Death DimensionMovie · 1978 · 88mA man known as The Pig intends to kill many people using a freeze bomb that instantly freezes victims. Detective Ash must stop him and protect a woman who possesses the secret to the bomb, stored as a microdot under her forehead.IMDb 4.1TMDB 4.1 - 74
Savage!Movie · 1973 · 81mA low-budget adventure film follows James Iglehart, a former baseball player playing as Savage. He is kidnapped by South American rebels. Eventually, Savage recognizes the rebels' cause and joins forces with a team of female commandos to fight against the oppressive government.IMDb 5.1TMDB 6.0 - 75
The Education of Sonny CarsonMovie · 1974 · 104mThis 1974 film is based on the true story of Sonny Carson, who started out in a gang and engaged in minor criminal activity before being incarcerated. Following his release from prison, he decides to turn his life around.IMDb 6.8TMDB 4.9 - 76
TNT JacksonMovie · 1974 · 72m · Action, ThrillerA determined woman travels to Hong Kong to find her long-lost sibling. Instead, she enters a dangerous underworld filled with thugs and drug dealers. She must confront her fears and limitations as she navigates this treacherous world and uncovers a complex network of crime that endangers her brother and her own life.
The film blends suspense with emotional storytelling as the protagonist fights to find the truth amidst harsh realities. As she explores Hong Kong's criminal network, hidden connections and manipulations are revealed, exposing a dark side of society. Viewers will be drawn to the complex relationships between characters and the relentless pursuit of justice that drives the story.IMDb 4.7TMDB 4.6 - 77
Black VelvetMovie · 1976 · 96mCrystal, a wealthy woman feeling rejected, lives in a grand Egyptian palace with her daughter Magda. She finds solace in an aging Hollywood expatriate who keeps company with a group of singing children.IMDb 4.2TMDB 4.2 - 78
DrumMovie · 1976 · 100mIn mid-19th century America, a mulatto man finds himself caught between the brutal world of pit fighting, where he thrives, and the deep-seated prejudice of white society. He struggles with the conflicting demands of survival and dignity.IMDb 5.5TMDB 4.8 - 79
Black HeatMovie · 1976 · 94mKicks Carter is a tough police officer working the streets of Las Vegas. A criminal organization is operating a wide-ranging operation from a luxury hotel – guns, drugs, loans, and prostitution – and Kicks is determined to shut them down. However, his efforts are complicated by the interference of a determined female reporter.IMDb 4.2TMDB 4.1 - 80
Welcome Home Brother CharlesMovie · 1975 · 103mWrongfully convicted of murder, a man emerges from prison determined to exact revenge against a biased police force and the detective responsible for his false imprisonment.IMDb 4.9TMDB 4.5 - 81
Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss SongMovie · 1971 · 98m · Action, Crime, DramaA black male prostitute's life changes when he intervenes to protect an African leader from racist police officers. Forced to flee, he seeks refuge with the help of his community in the ghetto. He unexpectedly finds allies in a group of disillusioned Hells Angels. Together, they navigate crime, power, and loyalty while challenging societal norms and facing their own problems. The film explores resilience, unity, and self-discovery in the face of injustice, offering a powerful look at the human spirit's strength.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.1 - 82
One Down, Two to GoMovie · 1982 · 84mTwo hardened detectives pursue the criminal organization responsible for sabotaging a martial arts competition and seriously injuring one of their colleagues.IMDb 4.5TMDB 4.4 - 83
Blaxploitalian: 100 Years of Blackness in Italian CinemaMovie · 2016 · 65mThis documentary explores the hidden history of Black actors in Italian cinema. Using interviews and archival footage, it reveals the personal challenges and successes of these classic Afro-Italian, African-American, and Afro-descendant performers. The film parallels their struggles with those of today's actors fighting for meaningful, non-stereotypical roles. *Blaxploitalian* is not just a look at a difficult past; it’s an argument for greater diversity in international film, told through the stories of these artists and their contribution to a more representative image of modern Italy.IMDb 7.3 - 84
New Jack CityMovie · 1991 · 97m · Thriller, Crime, DramaThis drama explores the lives of two men connected by their work but with very different perspectives: Nino, a powerful figure in the Cash Money Brothers, and Scotty, an undercover police officer trying to dismantle the gang's criminal operation. Nino consistently earns large sums of money from his weekly crack sales, while Scotty joins their ranks as a dealer to take them down from within. The film offers a realistic look at life on both sides of the law and the difficult choices people face when their beliefs are challenged by what they think is right. The complex relationship between Nino and Scotty, their personal battles, and the dangerous results of their choices play out against a harsh setting that highlights the drive for success and the consequences of lying.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 85
Five on the Black Hand SideMovie · 1973 · 96mLeonard Jackson is a barber and the controlling head of his middle-class African American family. He's challenged to examine his beliefs when his wife, who has always been submissive, joins their three children in openly defying his outdated ways.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.8 - 86
The Tattoo ConnectionMovie · 1978 · 90mA company specializing in diamond insurance dispatches a retired CIA agent to Hong Kong to recover a stolen diamond. Simultaneously, one of the thieves involved in the heist experiences a shift in perspective, influenced by his girlfriend's desire for him to abandon his criminal life.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.0 - 87
Mr. MeanMovie · 1977 · 98mFred Williamson directs and stars as the titular character in *Mr. Mean*. Williamson plays a former Mafia enforcer looking for a fresh start. He takes on work as a hitman and quickly gets a job: assassinate his former boss. Filmed in Italy, *Mr. Mean* delivers exactly what audiences expect.IMDb 4.5TMDB 4.8 - 88
Carter's ArmyMovie · 1975 · 70mA prejudiced officer is assigned to lead an all-Black unit on a critical mission: destroy a vital hydroelectric dam in Nazi Germany. Failure to do so will significantly slow the Allied advance and extend the war.IMDb 5.2TMDB 4.0 - 89
The SlamsMovie · 1973 · 91mA Los Angeles inmate with $1.5 million hidden outside himself becomes the target of competing prison gangs.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.4 - 90
SlaughterMovie · 1972 · 91mSlaughter, a veteran Green Beret, seeks revenge against the Mafia for the murder of his family. When the FBI blackmails him, he's compelled to travel to South America to eliminate the mobsters.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.5 - 91
Friday FosterMovie · 1975 · 90m · Action, ThrillerFriday Foster, a photographer for a popular magazine, gets caught in a dangerous situation while photographing wealthy businessman Blake Tarr at Los Angeles International Airport. As she captures his arrival, an assassination attempt occurs, and Friday documents the chaos.
Investigating the attack, Friday uncovers a disturbing conspiracy involving her childhood friend's murder, suspicious actions by a US senator, and a plan called "Black Widow." She must navigate this dangerous world to expose the truth and bring the culprits to justice, while staying safe from those who want to silence her. This suspenseful story follows Friday as she confronts corruption and danger in America, revealing unexpected revelations along the way.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.9 - 92
BucktownMovie · 1975 · 94mDuke Johnson travels to a small Southern town to bury his brother. He discovers he must remain for 60 days to settle the estate. Persuaded by locals, Duke reopens his brother's nightclub, but faces intimidation from corrupt local police. When Duke refuses to pay their bribes, he and his companion Aretha are threatened and attacked. Seeking help, Duke calls on his friend Roy, who arrives with others to bring justice to the town. With the corrupt officers dealt with, Duke relaxes, but the situation escalates. Ultimately, Duke must confront the consequences himself.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.6 - 93
Thomasine & BushrodMovie · 1974 · 95mBetween 1911 and 1915, two thieves target wealthy white industrialists in the American South. They redistribute the stolen wealth to Mexican, Native American, and impoverished white communities.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.3 - 94
Joe BulletMovie · 1973 · 79mAs the championship final approaches, the local soccer team, The Eagles, is targeted by a mysterious gangster. Desperate, they enlist the help of Joe Bullet (Ken Gampu). He must fight the gangster's henchmen, evade traps, and use his martial arts skills to survive an attack by a deadly assassin. Joe then infiltrates the gangster’s hideout on a dangerous rescue mission to save the team's two kidnapped star players and his love interest, Beauty (Abigail Kubeka). Despite overwhelming odds, Joe Bullet is the only one who can stop him.IMDb 5.1TMDB 5.1 - 95
Black DynamiteMovie · 2009 · 85m · Comedy, ActionBlack Dynamite is a 1970s action icon. He’s a man seeking revenge against those in power. His brother was murdered, orphanages were ruined by heroin, and the streets are choked with fake alcohol. Black Dynamite is the only one willing to confront the system, taking the fight from the city's darkest corners to the wealthiest enclaves.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 96
DolemiteMovie · 1975 · 90m · Action, Comedy, CrimeDolemite tells the story of a wrongly convicted pimp seeking redemption in a world where crime and law enforcement clash. Framed for drug trafficking, stolen goods, and weapons by Willie Greene and corrupt police officers, Dolemite is sentenced to twenty years in prison. But hope emerges when Queen B and an unexpected ally inside the prison devise a risky plan to free him. This daring effort aims to clear Dolemite's name and expose Greene and Mitchell for their corruption, revealing the dark side of a time when justice is uncertain.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.8 - 97
The Legend of Nigger CharleyMovie · 1972 · 98mThree escaped slaves flee from their pursuers in the American West.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.3 - 98
Brotherhood of DeathMovie · 1976 · 85mBlack soldiers returning from war arrive in a small Southern town controlled by the Ku Klux Klan. The Klan systematically denies the Black residents their rights, including the right to vote and basic human dignity. The soldiers encourage the locals to register, hoping to regain control and achieve justice. When registration drives draw large crowds, the Klan retaliates with violence. Faced with oppression, the Black community is forced to fight back, culminating in a conflict between the returning soldiers and the Klan.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.4 - 99
Hav PlentyMovie · 1997 · 92mLee Plenty, a struggling novelist on the verge of financial ruin, is friends with Havilland Savage, a wealthy and strikingly beautiful woman. When Havilland invites Lee to spend New Year's Eve at her home, a romantic relationship begins to develop between them.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.5 - 100
Disco 9000Movie · 1976 · 94mFass Black, a successful Black man in Los Angeles, is pressured by other record labels to play their music at his disco club. He consistently refuses, finding it uninspired.IMDb 4.8TMDB 3.2
