last week, panama blessed the verysmart pulpit with 10 songs all black people should know. today, i’ll walk you all through my beautiful mind as we take a look at the six most important black movies of the last 30 years (why six? because today’s january 16th. duh).
before i continue, i want to make a couple things clear:
1. by “black movie”, i’m referring to movies with themes that are specifically black.
to expound: if you took the same premise and replaced every black actor and actress in the flick with whites, could you have made the same movie? if the answer was yes (ie: “friday” or “the best man“) then no, its not a black movie…just a movie with black people in it.
2. remember, this is just measuring “importance” not “best” or “champs favorite“. please keep this in mind while admiring my list.
***in reverse order***
6. glory
reason for relevance
–the story of the 54th of massachusetts, glory was the most powerful depiction of the active hand 19th century blacks had in building our country. most other big-screen portrayals up to that time had pre-construction era blacks as docile and passive victims at the whims of the white teet, but glory showed that we had some fight in us…and that we were patriots and sh*t. if this means anything, i also get verklempt every time i watch it.
as my man heath stated bluntly a few years ago, “after seeing this, i didnt have to fake sleeping through history class anymore”
–also, the movie contained quite possibly the best on-screen insult ever, when morgan freeman’s sergeant major admonished an incorrigible denzel as a “smart-mouth, stupid-ass, swamp-running nigger”. i’d give a months pay for the opportunity to say that to someone.
5. school daze
reason for relevance
–spike lee’s depiction of black college life and the intra-racial class and color conflicts among us still resonates today.
–along with “a different world”, “daze” helped to keep HBCU’s on the radars of black youths around the country. it also remains the only musical that a heterosexual black male can freely admit to enjoying without reproach
4. menace 2 society
reason for relevance
—although less popular than the equally critically acclaimed “boyz n da hood”, menace more accurately captured the increasingly nihilistic nature permeating our inner cities. america was scared sh*tless by the fact that someone like o-dog existed (which the book “monster” proved even further), and larenz tate’s performance in this flick cemented the young champ’s fear of midgets.
3. do the right thing
reason for relevance
—lets put it this way: any movie released that makes people fear for the possibility of race-riots and the safefty of the mayor of new york is an important f*cking flick
—also, any movie that could inspire the young champ to rock kinte-clothed hoop sneaks…
…is an important f*cking flick
—supposedly this movie served as the first date for a young shelly robinson and barry obama, which also makes it an important f*cking flick.
2. the color purple
reason for relevance
–eh. next.
1. coming to america
reason for relevance:
–from soul-glo and “queen to be!!!!” to “martin luther the king” and randy watson’s sexual chocolate, no movie produced in the last 30 years has had as many instant quotetables, and as much of an lasting and panoramic impact on black popular culture. maybe it’s not as racially charged as a “rosewood” and maybe it doesnt provide a satirical social commentary like a “hollywood shuffle”, but “seriousness” isn’t the only way to define “importance“.
***also, from a racial rabble-rousing point of view, you can’t ignore the intra-racial impact of prince hakeem discarding a banging, barking, brown-skinned nubian princess for a giant foreheaded, light-skinned, bootlegged, burger chain heiress on an impressionable black populace. honestly, it took me at least six years to realize that shari headley was maybe the 6th or 7th most attractive woman in that movie. color-struckedness is a b*tch.***
toughest omissions:
malcolm x
—although its one of my favorite movies of all-time, and easily the best of the big black biopics (ie: “ray”, “ali”, “bird”, and “whats love got to do with it”) of the past couple decades, i couldn’t include it because it gets credit for the short-lived exaggerated black awareness/consciousness movement in the late 80′s/early 90′s that was actually spearheaded by “do the right thing”. its akin to giving kanye credit for the soulful sample mixing production style when he clearly is emulating the rza. i have no idea where i’m going here, so i’m just gonna stop.
hoop dreams
—forget about the basketball backdrop (which was remarkable in itself). this documentary perfectly mirrored the dynamics involved with thousands of struggling black families across the country, and, with arthur agee’s dad, introduced the world to the “functioning crackhead”
thoughts, vsb?
—the champ
***btw, please raise your hand or some sh*t if you’re gonna be in the dc area for inaguration***
Related posts:
- Get Like We: The Biggest And Most Popular Trends in the Black Community in the last 20 years.
- shake and bake: 7 surefire ways to make yourself seem much more important than you really are
- extra, extra: the five biggest breaking news stories in black america in the past 25 years
- Blackness 101: 10 Things All Black People Should (At Least) Be Aware Of…
- Superbad: 5 Movies That Aren’t As Funny As You Swear They Are
{ 439 comments… read them below or add one }
i’d hardly consider “Friday” to be a NOT black movie. you could definitely not have the characters played by 2520 actors and get the same product. no way, no how.
i’m actually offended you’d even suggest such a thing. pish posh!!
@GEMiniscing…,
You CAN have the 2520′s in the same type of movie – it’s called “Napoleon Dynamite”.
@GEMiniscing…, would someone please put RedBeanzNRice into some boiling water please..thank you, whose idea was it to allow crazy talk on this site?
If anyone says anything negative about Friday i will shank with a rusted piece of galvanised iron, i will wait to catch you outside the mall on Sunday and quickly stick my D*ck in your ear, i will scissor kick you in the neck, I’ll go contract Ghonoria pour petrol on your ass then piss you and sett you alight gawd damnitt!!!
@sisanda,
she’s telling the truth. friday’s a stoner comedy more than a black one. i wouldn’t go as far to say that its akin to napolean dynamite, but how is friday any different really from half baked or the kumar movies?
thats not a negative comment…just the truth and sh*t
@Champ & sisanda,
Champ – Yeah, you’re right – it’s more akin to Half Baked, but I used Napoleon Dynamite as a parallel cause it’s basically an all 2520 cast.
Sisanda – Wow. Such nastiness. Now you bringing shanks and sh*t? What ever happened to Kumbayah?
@sisanda, yeah, as much as i like it, (i LOVE “don’t be a menace…”) Friday just happened to be “black” cuz it was set in South Central. but it was a stoner movie to the nth degree. it just happens to be the Black version of most suburban stoner movies. hell, Smokey could just have easily been pauly shore.
@Panama Jackson,
Whoa I agree overall, but lets just calm down with the parallels and sh!t.
Pauly Shore? Yall are just getting reckless
no you didn’t say “eh…next” to the color purple. i’m gonna beat you like celie if you don’t write a decent paragraph in 5 minutes…*i’m counting*
@Miss Patterson, I will hold him down while you and a group of midgets kick him in his squirrel nuts
@Intellectual Hedonist, ha ha! squirrel nuts! does that mean they’re all shriveled up and hard?…eww.. then we should pour a cookies and cream milkshake over his head and let a herd of albino roaches nibble away at his beady bees. hee, hee.
@Intellectual Hedonist,
hold deez
@Miss Patterson, i love Black women’s love for The Color Purple.
what i also love is how when arguments ensue (as they usually do) as to why we don’t love it like y’all do, it comes down to a “it’s a woman thing”…which had you said in the first place, usually would have saved a 2 hour argument about the movie’s relevance.
it is hella funny though. though it made me scared of tribal markings for at least 10 years after watching it.
@Panama Jackson,
The love of that movie is so deep, I call my co-worker Celie and she calls me Nettie, because can NEVER sit together!
Its a woman thing because no woman could see herself going throough that without cuttin Mister….damn a shave.
I can’t even argue with the list you made, Champ. (which makes my job here very difficult, lol)
Menace II Society was a MONSTER, and by that I mean, me and my homeboy took my 13 year old cousin with us to see it BEFORE either of us saw it first. *sighs* Mistake.
After that, he started actin all “gangsta”, getting into random trouble for no reason, and quoting Caine an sh*t. He’s still an ass to this day. *sighs* Family – gotta love em.
While I love Black movies that depict realities, I hate that they’re depicted – if that makes sense.
Instead of making a movie about it – you got all that money to make a movie, so why don’t you DO SOMETHING about it, ya know?
@RedBeanzNRice,
“Instead of making a movie about it – you got all that money to make a movie, so why don’t you DO SOMETHING about it, ya know?”
MESSAGE!! hehe
@Luvvie, MESSAGE!!!
Aww you gotta love the Waynes Bros, well atleast before they started going all Hollywood and forgot what good-filthy-relevant-cringeworthy-hilarious comedy was.
BTW why isn’t Don’t be a Menace (to society whilst drinking…) on the list, sheeeiiiiit i was in primary school when that ish came out and it changed my whole outlook on life. Sheeeiiit Don’t be a menace was the funniest comedy of it’s time…
@sisanda, yeah strange enough, i think Don’t Be A Menace is one of the most relevant Black movies ever made and is the only reason the Wayans brothers, for all of their travesties post In Living Color, will always get a pass from me.
Don’t Be A Menace was so scarily accurate in its spoofery…basically, it’s what Michael Eric Dyson has always wished to be.
@Panama Jackson,
don’t be a menace would have made the cut if i extended the list to 20.
@Luvvie,
“Instead of making a movie about it – you got all that money to make a movie, so why don’t you DO SOMETHING about it, ya know?”
No disrespect to the original poster, but I disagree with this message.
Filmmakers are doing something about it, in their own way. An artist’s job (and I do consider Menace to Society a piece of art; it is the best movie from that genre) is to convey the realities of life as they know it.
Art inspires action. Community activists and advocates may then – and in many communities did – take that art, in this case Menace, and use it to facilitate discussions and community work groups about violence. From there, they could have compiled statistics on the crime rate in their local communities and used that info to lobby their local law makers for funding for community centers and policies that reduce violence.
This is a collective society, where everyone must do their part. And each contribution is different, depending on the voice. Even if an artist is not consciously raising their voice, they are adding to the dialogue. It is up to those who consume the art to expand that dialogue and bring forth action.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
Filmmakers are doing something about it, in their own way. An artist’s job (and I do consider Menace to Society a piece of art; it is the best movie from that genre) is to convey the realities of life as they know it.
Art inspires action. Community activists and advocates may then – and in many communities did – take that art, in this case Menace, and use it to facilitate discussions and community work groups about violence. From there, they could have compiled statistics on the crime rate in their local communities and used that info to lobby their local law makers for funding for community centers and policies that reduce violence.
This is a collective society, where everyone must do their part. And each contribution is different, depending on the voice. Even if an artist is not consciously raising their voice, they are adding to the dialogue. It is up to those who consume the art to expand that dialogue and bring forth action.
i agree and sh*t
@iloV.E.G.rits,
No disrespect taken. : ) We can just agree to disagree.
@iloV.E.G.rits, i agree too and sh*t
@iloV.E.G.rits,
I agree w/your statements here, both in content and structure.
@iloV.E.G.rits, EXACTLY and Spike hires ALL BLACK CREWS these are the ppl that really put a film together..ppl ARTIST arent politicians or the CEO’s of dumb compaines (wal mart, the Big Three, Paramount Pics..had to get that one in:). Stop asking them to “solve” the problem, yet half of us on this blog probably voted for the first time LAST YEAR and are WAAAY over 18, be the change you want to see-instead of telling us artist what to do…be like Spike and create are that inspires people. I am a filmmaker becuase Spike was doin it hard in the 80s in BK when it wasnt safe and he was the ONLY black film maker…its funny how people forget the Originators.
@RedBeanzNRice,
Making a movie about the reality depicted may be in fact an excellent way to do something about it.
@Arafat Khadafi,
How so? By raising “awareness” while they pocket the profit? Why not use that money to better the community since you KNOW that’s what the hell is going on. That’s all I’m sayin.
@RedBeanzNRice,
We’re commenting on an oped piece about movies, black ones and their relevance etc. Come on. Look at yourself. Steam is coming off of your comment. I think everybody here today feels the significant weight and influence of media, mass communications, entertainment, Movies. If not we wouldn’t be talking about this s*it. Don’t play yourself cause you’ll be the only one getting played. Bermuda Triangle. Fu*k with it you’ll get lost.
@Arafat Khadafi,
“We’re commenting on an oped piece about movies, black ones and their relevance etc”
No, I was commenting on YOUR comment to me in particular.
Steam? Really? If that’s what you’re seeing, you need glasses – LensCrafters only takes an hour.
And as far as playing oneself? Check ya self before you wreck ya shelf – my comment was to yours alone, Mr. 20/70 vision. CLEARLY, you live in the Bermuda Triangle, cause everything gets lost there. So, you’re forgiven.
@RedBeanzNRice,
Todays topic,”the six most important black movies of the last 30 years”
You have umpteen related comments and counting yet your vision is so acute you fail to see how making a black movie that depicts reality may be in fact an excellent way of doing something about “it”. The approach to solving problems or strengthening peoples realities are often multi-faceted because the realities and problems are just as limitless in possibility. Don’t discount “bringing awareness” With awareness comes choice. Hey but “bringing awareness” is just one benefit of art, entertainment, mass media, communications, Movies. I wonder if a movie budget could fix the economic fix America is in now. We’re spending trillions of dollars.”Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. “Teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime.” Both have significant influence. A multi-faceted approach would probably be very smart indeed. There are many films the worldwide that are made each year which don’t make money however to infer that making a film has insignificant effect upon effecting positive change on problems, peoples, realities etc. is short sighted. If you or anyone else has genuine and honorable intent in “doing something about it” it is not limited to a certain, way, trade, discipline, art, category, career path, articles of organization or incorporation, to be effective efficient or significant in effecting those changes in “reality.” For certain mass media, communication, entertainment, is a super dynamic way to reach, create awareness and influence people and realities. Whether a film does this or not is not about its category “Films” but more about the purpose of the project and the people creating it. The scope of some “adverse realities” are much bigger than say two hundred and fifty million dollars and that’s a high end version of a films entire budget Hollywood Style. Good thing is everybody is not you or me. Some may have the same goals and purposes but different talents and visions for getting there. That doesn’t necessarily mean they are any less significant in effecting reality. I communicate with Gods percision and Satans swag you niggas are not permitted with your hating ass. C>H>
@Arafat Khadafi,
Ok look foreigner. I barely got past the first sentence of your “novel” because frankly you matter so much to me that I bothered to read it.
Before you start talking about someone READING sh*t, CHECK YA SHELF, dumbass. The ONLY reason I even said ANYTHING to you in the first place is because I was responding to YOUR response to ME.
You weren’t commenting on the topic, you were commenting on what I SAID, you idiot. So now, I’m done, because I refuse to battle an unarmed little boy.
Your mama should have raised you better.
@RedBeanzNRice,
LOL! Just as I said, Bermuda Triangle Nig*a. Fu*k wit it and you’ll get lost.
@Arafat Khadafi,
And clearly you are – nuff said.
Be advised. We are issuing an *Amber Alert* for RedBeanzNRice last seen traveling in the Bermuda Triangle Area. All craft in the area please be on the lookout for a small ship that may be in distress. Please contact…
@Arafat Khadafi,
Ok, I know you have a crush on me an sh*t, but you’re going above and beyond. Now, if expressing your undying love for me is what gets you through the weekend, then by all means, continue.
I’m gonna go take a nap while you work that out.
@RedBeanzNRice,doest the church poket the profit..how about the cable/satellite companies they all pocket the profit, when was the last time those organizations really helped the community. Maybe the church but they always suspect..alterior motives..but I dont see Nike, building any factory in any ghetto, how about you Internet provider are they in your hood holding semiars about “your son could write the next killa app” what about cell phone companies other than sticking the store in the hood what do they really do for the community? I guess no one should be in business unless they give back.
@temps,
Give back like in taxes?
@RedBeanzNRice, what about your internet provider or all of the other products in your household they dont contribute money to the community so why should filmmakers be the only ones. Its a job like anyone elses. We tell stories thats all, we are not the politicians you do or dont vote for (which is why we had Bush dumb ass for 8 yrs..that f-the crap about no one good to vote for well theres always someone worst that’ll take advantage of “not voting”). I also dont buy things from a business if I dont like em it aint my right to tell em what they should do with their money….instead I want to ask you-What is you plan for the community? And dont give me the better schools crap, if you had the budget from the B.I.G movie what would you do thats tangible?
@RedBeanzNRice,
Because that’s their vehicle.
Some are community organizers (read Barry) some are artists (read Spike Lee). Different gifts.
As long as it’s used for good, I’m ok with using your gifts as you receive them.
@Sula In Planning.,
*nodding head in agreement*
glory was like the most depressing movie ever. i remember when they were trying to get shoes… that made me sooooo sad esp cuz of my addiction to shoes… but yeah, it’s amazing to me that morgan freeman is STILL acting… i mean, wasn’t he like jesus’ best friend?!?!
and i think that if coming to america wasn’t on the list then we would all question your negro-hood…
but u know, as long as soul plane or some other foolywang wasn’t up here i think that ur list is pretty comprehensive!
and damn it feels good to be commenting before the triple digits rise!
@ladebelle,
why is my memory of “Glory” that we went to the movie, halfway through the film f*cked up, and we had to get refunds… ain’t that a bish….
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
ohhh… that happened when we went to see crooklyn!!!
@ladebelle,
“it’s amazing to me that morgan freeman is STILL acting… i mean, wasn’t he like jesus’ best friend?!?!”
Naw. Morgan Freeman was Jesus’ elementary school principal. “Lean on Me” was loosely based on the trials of “Adam &Eve K-12 School”. Word.life.
@Luvvie,
Corner. Now.
@Luvvie,
I hate yo face… go sat down effective now.
@Luvvie, i ca-quit you.
@ladebelle,
“…and damn it feels good”
if i had a dollar…
@The Champ
You would have exactly $.06 in your pocket?
@V Renee,
Ba-ZING!!!!!
Pow -Pow! Shot fired!
@V Renee,
since when did folks from cincy learn how to count and sh*t?
@The Champ
When they went to the number 36th best high school in America. (wink)
@V Renee,
are you referring to princeton? asking because my cousin went there (two of them, actually)
@The Champ
HE.L.L naw I aint talking about Princeton. Hahaha. Walnut Hills.
But who are your cousins? Are they cute/single?
@The Champ, tryna make a dolla out of . $0.15…(a dime and a nickel!)
*Raises hand
If any of my people are gonna be in the area email me and we’ll get up this weekend.
Even tho you’re from Pitt I’ll include you in the “people” category too Champ.
Don’t be volunteering to open up our QT to the masses.
what! you didn’t include Hollywood Shuffle! it qualified and its a comedy classic! winky dinky ho cakes cause ho’s gotta eat to?
@shay-d-lady,
i gave it a shout-out and sh*t in one of the write-ups
“Oh my lawd, lawd, lawd, lawd… MMHMMMM”. I LOVE that scene in “Glory”
And yall aready KNOWED “The Color Purple” is my ISH!!! “That day when I SEED you in that sto’, I KNEWED there was a GAWD!!!” Oprah played the PERM outta Miss Sofia. I ain’t lying!
“Coming to America” is God’s gift to cinema. I STILL roast folks who wear velour by asking them “What is that, VELVET??”
Other movies I’d add to this list (just cuz I love em so):
*Harlem Nights
*Boomerang
*I’m gonna git you Sucka (I’ont care if you disagree)
Oh I SHALL BE I DC!!!! *Does jig, shuck and/or jive, the hustle, the electric slide, the perculator, the pressha cooker…* So… is we popping off a VSB meet and greet?
@Luvvie,
joining Luvvie in the jig, shuck and/or jive, the hustle, the electric slide, the perculator, the pressha cooker…*
@Intellectual Hedonist,
It’s Peanut Butter Jelly Time
@WuDaMan,
LMAO, that never stops being funny!
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
Never!
Especially as I picture Brian doing it to amuse Peter, hilarity always ensues.
@Sula In Planning.,
Best.Family.Guy.Clip.Ever.
@blackberry molasses
The BEST Family Guy Clip is when Stewie beats Brian’s azz over the money he owes him.
Me and a co-worker JUST reenacted that scene today. Coffee cup and all.
@V Renee,
actually, you are correct… but that whole episode kicked a$$
“Where’s my money? Huh! Oh you got money to buy fake mustaches, but you don’t got my money **Stewie kicks Brian down the stairs**
@Sula In Planning.,
I get so mad about that Family Guy Peanut Butter Jelly clip, cause the Peanut Butter Jelly song and dance is a real thing down here in Florida and that ish in Family Guy is not it at all!
To me it’s totally disrespectful.
Pardon me for getting all sensitive and sh!t
@Luvvie,
I’ll be in DC in all my vangloriousness… get like me!
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
“get like me!”
Sorry but I decline your offer. I need moisture in my hair. Ur hairhat misses moisture like the desert misses rain. I can’t.
@Luvvie,
hairhat?
@The Champ,
hairhat is what we affectionately (not) call each other’s hair, but it is what we call wigs and weaves, bc they are hats made of hair… and we have epic battles http://www.awesomelyluvvie.com/2009/01/dry-hair-battle.html
@Luvvie,
I’m so happy you put up Harlem Nights
@Luvvie, like Champ said, Coming To America is the Jay-Z of Black cinema. there are SO many quotables in that movie its ridiculous. me likey long time…
i often waver on Harlem Nights. on the one hand, it had a million quotables too, and was the backdrop of my favorite DJ Quik album “Safe+Sound”, but unlike Coming to America it wasn’t anything more than entertainment (and pretty much just a vanity project)…maybe accidentally, but Coming To America was some damn social commentary for dat azz. plus, it just so happens to be THE MOST STEREOPTYPICAL movie of all time.
i mean, the african prince had elephants in his back yard. now, maybe that’s true…lol…however, that’s just some crap Americans assume about Africans on some ole ignant lookin’ boi stuff.
i mean for goodness sake, he actually had an african booty scratcher. lol. of course she got cut out of the final cut, but she was in there RIGHT before the royal penis was cleaned. i think it was played by a pre-boomerang Halle Berry.
@Panama Jackson,
i did not know about the African booty scratcher… I quit that movie. Effective immediately.
Ehhhh, who am I kiddn…. its a good movie. But dayum ignant
@Panama Jackson,
Oh snap I need to upgrade and get the dvd. Aparently I need to see these deleted scenes and all. Good lookin out Panama ‘GET YOUR ROYAL ENGAGEMENT T-SHIRTS’
@Panama Jackson,
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1243/1353910151_a0eb2532b2.jpg
@Arafat Khadafi,
Talk about gangsta! A hyena on a chain son?! Wuuuuu ehehehehehe
@WuDaMan,
You’d be surprised what people keep as pets. Even when I was young I knew people in America that had some exotic s*it. Elephant in the back yard in countries like India and Africa would not surprise me. Look at Michael Jackson’s sick as.
@Arafat Khadafi, Elephant in the back yard in countries like India and Africa
…no, brother leader, NO!!!… Africa is NOT a country….
@superwoman,
Thanks. I learn so much from a very smart sista. I surely thought South Africa was a country and I also thought that Africa was the continent that it was on. Am I wrong there too? Thank you kindly.
@WuDaMan,
http://www.lostateminor.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/nigeria16.jpg
By the way I saw a pack of “stray” dogs next to the highway the other day and the “pack leader” had on a dirty NBA jersey. That s*it was “SO HOOD” and so hilarious.
@Arafat Khadafi, bwuahahahhaa hecks yeah is that the throwback david beckam on that baboon. killin em. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vu8Kh2_l12Q play that track back.
@Panama Jackson,
one of my professors used Coming to America in one of my literature classes, African American images in main stream film and literature, the whole Elephant in the back yard thing always kills me
@Panama Jackson, i rebuke this in the name of every African who was called an african booty scratcher on an elem school playground.
well never mind. the beatdown that immediately followed it makes it worth it.
@Panama Jackson,
i’m watching Comig to America right now as I watch my girl pack for our trip to the inauguration
@Luvvie,
You already know I’ll be there. Would love to hit up a meet and greet. Besides my 60 year old mother already called on Tuesday to say she had bought the liquor to bring on the trip. I may need some time away from mom and ‘em. SMH…family
Great list, definetly on point.
I remember watching School Daze.
Speaking of intra-racial, that is what’s going on at my job at Barnes & Noble. I’m the only black person there with darker skin, and the ladies (one’s light, another is half-white) are not friendly.
Or maybe it’s because I work in receiving while they work on the sales floor? I only ask how their day is going and keep the conversations only about work.
@James Simms,
have you had sex with either of these women? just asking to get a better idea of what the problem is
@James Simms,
why they hatin’ on chocolate goodness? that’s my question.
Oh and welcome!!!! **Diva Dust v. 2.0 ™**
@James Simms, i lurve barnes & noble…welcome!!! *shooting gold stars*
awwwwww and why no roots or shaka zulu?
@shay-d-lady, I was expecting to see Roots on the list…
@shay-d-lady,
both Roots and Shaka Zulu are mini-series.
@shay-d-lady,
no one shoot me but “Roots”… meh
@shay-d-lady,
Hi, I’m Luvvie and I’ve never watched “Roots”. Don’t stone me, but its been a conscious decision. I just don’t want to.
You can’t revoke my black card, btw. My African-ness gives me an extra allowance for such things. hehehe Now I KNOW I’mo get some hate mail
@Luvvie,
You should watch it…its a great mini-series and quite powerful. Though, as someone not descended from slaves (as we in the Americas are), you’d probably not feel an emotional connection to Roots, the way black and Carib-Americans did/still do.
No need to worry: the committee to revoke black cards does not have your name on their review list.
@iloV.E.G.rits, Everyone should watch it. I’m African too (born there and raised in the US) and I’ve watched it many times. It was a very powerful movie.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
Luvvie: the review committee is sorry to inform you that your name IS on the list.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
I was also born AND raised in Africa, and I still think Roots is an important movie. Very gripping and powerful, and to crown it all, it was also well acted.
@iloV.E.G.rits, no, i’m african – and i watched roots as a kid, when it first came out, and as a black person, it gripped me something chronic. i read the book years later, and watched the mini-series again – and it was as compelling as ever…
i don’t see how any black person, regardless of which part of the diaspora they’re in, wouldn’t be affected by Roots – it was so powerful….
@superwoman, “i don’t see how any black person, regardless of which part of the diaspora they’re in, wouldn’t be affected by Roots – it was so powerful”
I concur…
@Luvvie,
I only saw Roots when I was a kid, so I only really remember Chicken George – and that’s barely. But I tried to watch it again when it came on 2 years ago – couldn’t even do it. As soon as the Africans got put on the wagon, Kunta starts speaking English to one of the other dudes.
English? Really?
You couldn’t at least make them start off with Swahili or somethin?
Besides that, it’s plagiarized.
@RedBeanzNRice, though that doesnt’ take away from its historical significance b/c the visual was so powerful, that did kind of take away a lot of the credibility…not to mentoin Roots: The Next Generation with Halle and Jasmine Guy…
like, you faked the first 1000 pages…NOW I GET MORE??!??!?
lucky for him he’s who Malcolm called to write his autobiography or his name would be mud.
@Panama Jackson,
Queen was the worst piece of garbage. I took time out my valuable young life to watch that mess…
As an aside, there should be a list: When Oprah happens to good books. She has ruined, for me, three of my favorite books: Their Eyes Were Watching God, The Wedding and Beloved.
@Panama Jackson,
PREACH!! Cause you ain’t speakin nothin but the TRUTH! The English part made me irritated so that’s why I spoke on it – reduces the authenticity.
In a way, his name still is kinda “mud” – let’s just call it “dirt”, lol.
@RedBeanzNRice,
Well, they would have techincally not been talking in Swahili… but that’s besides the point.
I gather they were trying to reach an audience. Finding actors who would actually speak those native languages would have been more expensive. It was the late 1970′s, I’m not sure there were a lot of people lining up to finance mini-series about Slavery and its intricacies.
Personally, Roots did a great job in opening my mind as a child to the problems that Slavery could have created (remember I was watching it from afar) and it made me appreciate a lot of the differences when I moved stateside.
My $.02.
@Sula In Planning.,
“Well, they would have techincally not been talking in Swahili… but that’s besides the point.”
If it was besides the point you wouldn’t have brought it up. Besides that, I said “or somethin”, jeez.
If they can read a script, they can read Swahili, or whatever African language they decided to use. With actors it’s not a matter of KNOWING the language, only being able to read it.
And since the language would only last roughly 10 minutes, they could have used sub-titles.
So if you liked Roots, then good for you. I didn’t.
@RedBeanzNRice,
Just stating my opinion, darling. Relax.
@Sula In Planning.,
There’s no “relaxing” I’m just responding to what you wrote to me.
@RedBeanzNRice,
I have to counter here. Actors have to do more than read a language. They have to master the pronounciation, phrasing…dialect/language coaches are expensive. I’m with Sula…there prolly wasn’t a lot of money being tossed at the project.
Besides the film wanted to appeal to as wide an audience as possible…subtitles would have, sadly, turned off a huge number of folks.
@Sula In Planning.,
“I gather they were trying to reach an audience. Finding actors who would actually speak those native languages would have been more expensive. It was the late 1970’s, I’m not sure there were a lot of people lining up to finance mini-series about Slavery and its intricacies.”
Thanks for this. People say they want the “authentic experience” and skip all movies with subtitles.
@Luvvie, thank you! how can ppl attempt to revoke a black card…and yous African!
@shay-d-lady,
wait was they made in 78 or later?
–eh. next.
Champ, you are wrong for this comment lol. The Color Purple was one of the best movies (and books). The list is on point. Waiting to Exhale should be an honorable mention.
@Leila,
Waiting to Exhale would have been the same movie if there were white chicks in it. Sorry. See Sex and the City. It’s an important film because there were black women, finally, in that type of film, driving the story line. So, from that respect it’s culturally relevant. But, if we adhere to Champ’s guidelines, I must admit that it is no different than any other unlucky in love/”I can do bad all by myself” chick flick.
@Leila,
What she said!
@Leila,
I dont get black womens fascination with that movie or the book either for that matter. If it had five no-names in it instead of Angela, Whitney, Loretta etc, nobody would have been checking for it.
I still dont.
I saw ALL these movies in the theater. My McDonald’s crew manager took all the girls on our shift to see “Glory” when were in HS. I cried like a baby when they had that pray meeting around the camp fires, singing the spiritual. *misty*
Mother took my sister and I to see “Color Purple”, “School Daze”, “Do The Right Thing” and “Menance” cuz she said they were important films for us to see as young black women growing up when we did. She was right.
This list is complete, for the standards you set, Mr. Champs. Maybe I’d throw in “New Jack City”…maybe.
But for me, no list of Black films is complete w/out “The Wiz” being included.
@PBG,
This list is complete, for the standards you set, Mr. Champs. Maybe I’d throw in “New Jack City”…maybe.
if i extended the list to 10 or 15, new jack city might have been in it.
@PBG,
I hear ya on the Wiz. But you know what I don’t understand about it? When it first came out, it bombed at the box office. The hell? That movie is the lick! How could anyone not have loved it?
Ya ta da da daahhhh!
@RedBeanzNRice, um, can you seriously not understand why the movie bombed at the box office? though i am thoroughly entertained by it, let’s not pretend like The Wiz is a great piece of cinematic history. it’s like a spoof movie, only it’s not.
a lot of those scenes look like Crayola threw up all over a studio and somebody was like, “hey, i think we got a movie here”
@Panama Jackson,
Ok, that comment made me laugh, but yeah, I seriously and truly cannot understand why.
It was basically a remake of the Wizard of Oz with a black all-star cast. The acting was great, the music was great, and hell, it was spearheaded by MOTOWN – Barry Gordy.
So, to my mind, black folks should have been POURING into the theaters in droves for those 3 reasons alone. Nevermind the fact that every time it comes on, I watch it like I’ve never seen it before, lol.
@RedBeanzNRice, i think saying that the acting is great is a wee bit overstating the truth. like nipsey russell was great.
diana? not so much. the music was good, but that movie just had like 12 things too many going on. just too many colors for me. lol.
and by the point The Wiz dropped, Motown had lost some of its luster.
@Panama Jackson,
Ok, I gotta give you that. Cause yeah, Diana’s acting wasn’t so hot. But still, while I agree that Motown had lost some of it’s luster by that time, it’s still MOTOWN. Ya know?
From the point of view of this day and age (holding Motown as legendary) it’s hard to see why that movie didn’t hold more sway with black folks during that time, that’s all.
@Panama Jackson,
I’ve always thought it was a spoof movie… until I realized they were serious about it.
And Ms. Ross acting skills are on par with those of Ms. Knowles-Carter. I’m just sayin’…
@Sula In Planning.,
“I’ve always thought it was a spoof movie… until I realized they were serious about it.”
LMAO!!!! I knew I wasn’t alone…I can’t.
@miss t-lee,
IDK, there’s something about The Wiz that always makes me feel dizzy,or in a purple haze.
all while singin.’Eaze on down.Eaze on down’
@PBG,
I’ve only seen The Wiz once. The music was good, but I can do without the movie itself.
*pointing two fingers at the Champ* till you do right by the Color Purple…ahh I can’t finish that, LOL. You straight gave a middle finger to that flick, reporting you to the Drop Squad…ohh yeah! the film, The DROP SQUAD heh
@Wise Diva,
I’ll finish it for you
Champ, until you do right by me, may all the King’s horses and all the King’s men be unable to put you back together again!
@Luvvie,
I fell out the damn bed I laughed so hard. OMG I think I broke something. Lord be my cane
@Luvvie, ROTFL!! perfect, HILARIOUS, I thank you, LOL
@Luvvie,
Champ, until you do right by me, may all the King’s horses and all the King’s men be unable to put you back together again!
See now this sh!t right here…I’m jus totally outta words.
@Luvvie
Hilarious.
::chuckling my arse off::
@Luvvie,
LOL!! Hilarious!
I.AM.DONE.
@Luvvie,
lol, that was a good one. i’m not even gonna respond and sh*t.
So, “The Color Purple” isn’t good enough for a write-up?…wtf?
…there were A LOT of important themes in that movie. Arranged marriage, race relations, blended families, education of women, internal struggles between secular and spiritual, love and abandonment, gender rights, the caste system, historical racial subservience, self-actualization, African heritage…
Is none of that worth mentioning?
@Resident GRitS, I’m glad you mentioned it all, since Mr. Champs seems to think all those things are unworthy of a small paragraph. Serious stuff all up and through that movie.
@Resident GRitS,
It is a great book, IMO the reason men don’t appreciate it is because it addresses the issues of women of color everything from our interpersonal issues, love and loathe for ourselves, our beauty our hair, our relationships with women, and men, and our children.
Again men just don’t get it
TCP was also groundbreaking in that it was the first major film starring primarily black women in roles written for them
@Intellectual Hedonist,
Major cosign. And ***glitter***
@PBG,
Thank you
**Showering in glitter**
@Intellectual Hedonist, Name one strong male figure in the movie. I DARE YOU I DOUBLE DARE YOU MOTHuh sorry I got Sam Jack on the brain.
@WuDaMan,
What about Samuel? True, he isn’t in the movie much, but he is a strong character in the book. And also Jack, Odessa’s husband. Harpo eventually get’s his sh*t together toward the end when he realizes he has a good woman who only wants to love him. ‘
(Can you tell I have a PhD and a post doctoral fellowship in The Color Purple-ology?)
@blackberry molasses, yous tole Harpo to beat me??
@blackberry molasses, gets it together how about is a mealy mouth do-boy. I haven’t read the book. But I can give someone else their time to shine and revel in their accomplishments. This film is a gluttonous ego trip. I mentioned Sam Jack cuz of how I was quoting him from pulp fiction when he was like, ‘SAY WHAT AGAIN I DARE YOU I DOUBLE DARE YOU MOTHU FLUKAH, what ain’t no country I ever heard of Bret.
@Intellectual Hedonist,
Its hard to watch cause Whoopi in that movie made my eyes bleed
@Deviant, just watch it with plenty of gauze at the ready and maybe a pint of your blood type for the transfusion. Because bleeding from the eyes is a problem
@Deviant, PLUS SHE AINT GOT NO EYEBROWS.
@Panama Jackson,
When you have as much money as Whoopi – you don’t need eyebrows.
@RedBeanzNRice
I rebuke that message. I don’t care how much money someone has. They STILL need eyebrows.
@V Renee,
Why DOSEN’T she have eyebrows?
I always wondered this.
Maybe I should google that……wait,how would i phrase that question.
@RedBeanzNRice,
yes u do
@Intellectual Hedonist,
TCP was also groundbreaking in that it was the first major film starring primarily black women in roles written for them
what about “scream blacula scream”? you can’t forget that one
@Resident GRitS,
You forgot the slight underlying bisexuality of Celie and Shug Avery as one of the themes. Yup… I have a ph.D in “Color Purplology”
Who can answer the question “Why is the movie called ‘The Color Purple’?”
@Luvvie, God gets angry when we walk past the color purple and don’t even notice it.
@PBG,
this is true. Walk by the color purple and try not to notice it.
@Luvvie,
“You saying God is vain? No…Everything wanna be loved. Us sing and dance, and holla just wanting to be loved.”
Everything is just reaching out, trying to be noticed, trying to be loved. At least that’s my take on it.
@Luvtheshoes,
No, nobody is saying that. That was a quote from the movie, which you obviously didn’t catch when you watched it.
@RedBeanzNRice,
No…that’s the next line in the movie after Suge tells Celie that it “pis$es God off to walk by the color purple and not notice it”
I caught it.
@Luvtheshoes,
Well, hecky-doodle. I thought you were asking a question, lmao. Just trying to be helpful. : P
@RedBeanzNRice,
No problem ‘atall! ; P
@Luvvie,
Was it slight?
To me, it was very overt.
@Resident GRitS,
“So, “The Color Purple” isn’t good enough for a write-up?…wtf?”
my sentiments exactly..however alot of black WOMEN have forgotten about an equally important black female centered film : daughters of the dust (1991).
i’ll be in the mile high city..on a work related conspiracy for inaug..if yall get here b4 sunday let me know.
@Resident GRitS,
So, “The Color Purple” isn’t good enough for a write-up?…wtf?
…there were A LOT of important themes in that movie. Arranged marriage, race relations, blended families, education of women, internal struggles between secular and spiritual, love and abandonment, gender rights, the caste system, historical racial subservience, self-actualization, African heritage…
Is none of that worth mentioning?
you just mentioned it. good job.
@The Champ, you’re not even shy……
@The Champ,
…so you were just waiting on a woman who’s passionate about the movie to do the write up for you?
…well, now that I ‘write for VSB,’ I’m gonna need a few things.
“The Five Heartbeats” , looks around hollers “The whole world’s an ashtray to Eddie Kaing” looks around again, drops mic, runs out….
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
I loved that movie so much that I went to see it in the theater twice…alone…after having seen it w/Mother when it first came out. LOVE IT!
@PBG, I saw it at the movies too with my mama! I remember it vividly because there were two chicks behind us talking incessantly and my mama cussed them out, then turned around and carried on eating her popcorn…. but them heifers shut up though!
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
“Sometimes, I wish raindrops would fallllllll” (on ur scalp, Alise). hehehe
@Luvvie,
Don’t get me started, I have already won 2… count ‘em 2 battles with you on YOUR blog. Don’t get cut, you know I’ll see you tomorrow! And I’ll do it…
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
One of the best movies of all time, in my opinion. My brother and I still go back and forth with that and the Temptations movie.
@Lil’T,
The Temptations movie aint got NUFFIN on the Five Heartbeats…. “…And you can’t get it, cuz you ain’t got it, Flash!”
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
The Five Heartbeats was actually loosely based on the real Temptations.
The Temptations movie is a good biopic; it just makes me sad, ya know? The Temptations were the sh*t, and for it to all unfold like that was heartbreaking.
@RedBeanzNRice, hell, The Five Heartbeats was loosely based on every Black act that had internal issues and strife and success…basically, all of them…
@Panama Jackson,
True, but it was specifically loosely based on the Temps. I watched the Robert Townsend interview, and that was what he was going for.
He even used the main lead singer of the Temps (David Ruffin) as the singing voice for Eddie King, Jr.
@RedBeanzNRice, um….i thought that was The Dells?
@SouthernGirl,
Actually it was the Temps, the Dells, and notes of Sam Cooke with a few sprinkles of other singular artists. But the main group was the Temps.
@RedBeanzNRice, do the dells know that? lol. cause they sure are claiming it. i don’t doubt that it may have a been a mush of numerous groups but all i remember hearing about was the dells. and they were on the soundtrack and i could’ve sworn they were the group that provided the singing voices in the movie. *shrug* i don’t know. anyway, i love that movie and watch it everytime it’s on. maybe i should just go buy it…
@RedBeanzNRice, yeah, i think that it really is based on the Dells. i’d heard that and read that, and even the dells (www.mightydells.com) have a whole section of their website dedicated to it.
and i also saw an interview with Robert Townsend that mentioned the Dells as the “foundation”…
I think the list is pretty good. I too am a big fan of I’m gonna git u sucka. Can u believe the man took it out of production?
@gamma man,
**gasp**
@gamma man,
out of production?
Champ,
I agree with your list, but would add three films. I think I applied your ground rules. I am sure many will disagree but I’ll give it a shot any way.
1. Krush Groove.
Why is it relevant? Because it shows rap music, in a very cheesy, poorly acted way, when it still belonged to kids from the block, before it really hit the mainstream. Folks of a certain age remember screaming in the theater when Run DMC, LL or Kurtis Blow first came into focus. And many of their parents can recall the first time they realized that maybe rap wasn’t so scary after all.
2. Love Jones
Why is it relevant? Because it showed educated, smart, young black people in love. I know the movie is not a VSB favorite, but you gotta give it up for the film. There are very few movies that show a reasonably healthy black male/female dynamic. Regardless of how unrealistically high the movie set the bar for black relationships, it reminded us – and the whites who flocked to see it during re-release – that black men and women aren’t always fighting each other in the streets, cussing each other out, and reproducing irresponsibly. It showed us that some folks are just looking for love. Released when gang movies were the hot thing, the movie provided a different look at black life.
3. Imitation of Life.
Why is it relevant? There’s a mammie and her daughter is trying to pass. Some black folks don’t feel the plot line of this film. Nevertheless, it touches on a very real aspect of those times: there were black folk who wanted more than anything to NOT be black. At the end, we see that, no matter what, you can’t escape who you are. Additionally, we see a black woman, a maid, live and die with real dignity. Classic.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
Co-sign on Imitations of Life! Even though the cast is mainly white, the story is one of a black person struggling with being black, and passing as white. So yeah, it should definitely make the cut.
@RedBeanzNRice,
“Mama…I’m sorry, mama.” Big dramatic tears, gut-wrenching sobs. Classic.
The black storyline stole the focus from the white one in that movie.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
OMG, I HATE that you quoted that part of the movie – got me tearing up and sh*t. During the movie, you hate Sarah Jane cause she’s so evil to her mama. Everybody LOVES the mama – hell even my mama named me after her. (the actress, not the character, lol)
But at the end, when she realizes the error of her ways, but it’s too late – it gives you a gut punch. Darn those tear jerkers – darn them to heck!!
@RedBeanzNRice,
I STILL tear up when that part of the movie comes on…
@iloV.E.G.rits,
if the list was a bit longer (top 20), both crush groove and love jones would have made the cut (for the reasons you stated)
imitation of life doesnt fit the criteria (too old)
@The Champ,
Re: Imitation of Life. Okay…I guess I missed that key criteria: last 30 years…I’m sleep deprived. Don’t hold it against me.
@iloV.E.G.rits, Can’t say i agree with Love Jones. With white folk i think we get the same damn movie
@Pey-SO,
Naw. We were/are used to seeing white folk in romantic leads in movies. Not the same for black folk.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
I didn’t realize how corny this movie was until I got older. I still love it though.
My favorite parts
1. Run on the phone ordering mad pair of Adidas
2. The auditions when LL came in.
Russell and Rick: auditions are over
LL: Box
Russell and Rick: we said auditions are over
LL: Box
(JMJ was about pull out the burner on him)
3. Run counting his money talking cash s**t
@Humble_One,
Krush Groove inspired me to give myself a Sheila E. makeover. My father wasn’t having it…
@iloV.E.G.rits, don’t worry, the 80s forgives you.
@Humble_One,
This list of favorite parts from “Krush Groove” is on point.
Fo’ real.
Especially…
#1. Run on the phone ordering mad pair of Adidas
As a lifetime sneaker addict, this is possibly the flyest scene ever committed to celluloid. I remember sitting in the movie theater, wide-eyed, like “when I get older and get a job…this is EXACTLY what I will do. Straight just have someone bring me like a truckload of kicks on the reg.”
I don’t do it much anymore, but even to this day when I do buy kicks, I buy like 4-5 pairs at a time just to relive that feeling.
@thePhiladelphiaNegro,
I remember sitting in the movie theater, wide-eyed, like “when I get older and get a job…this is EXACTLY what I will do. Straight just have someone bring me like a truckload of kicks on the reg.”
i used to feel the exact same way, lol.
Okay…I just read, for the first time (sorry, I’ve been away) the “Songs Every Black Person Should Know List”.
Agree 100% with it.
My only comment is that it bothers me that Marcia Griffith is KNOWN for the Electric Boogie. C’mon y’all she was one of the original I Three’s…Bob Marley’s backing group.
Poor gal.
I’m in mourning. My xbox passed away due to hardware failure. It was not even 2 weeks old.
Anyways, as far as the list goes, I can get with it. As far as The Color Purple goes, while once upon a time I did give it a favorable review as a movie, as a man I can barely watch it. It doesn’t take anything away from its achievement though.
I would add Bamboozled to this list. I realize that would give Spike a lot of burn on this list, but he has been pretty prominent as far a black directors go, so yeah. But, it just amazed me how deep the racial thing still goes, even on the verge of a black man becoming commander-in-chief.
Oh, and as a throwback choice, I would add Shaft.
@Maximillian,
I would add Bamboozled to this list. I realize that would give Spike a lot of burn on this list, but he has been pretty prominent as far a black directors go, so yeah. But, it just amazed me how deep the racial thing still goes, even on the verge of a black man becoming commander-in-chief.
you know, i’m convinced that spike had like 15 different screenplays laying around on his coffee table one day, and decided to try to cram them all into bamboozled and she hate me. i realize that flick addressed a ton of important issues, but, as far as trite smorgasborgs of unintelligible “artisticness” goes, it was even worse than belly
@The Champ, interesting. to me Bamboozled is one of the better Spike Lee movies, as far as sticking to the point. Granted, it had plenty of the standard Spike hiccups, but i thought it was probably one of the more important movies of the past 10 years…
She Hate Me on teh other hand?? i remember writing up a movie review for this on Maximillian’s website back in the day…i wanted to throw a shoe at spike for that movie though seeing Dania Ramirez and Kerry Washington’s sexxy asses for that whole movie was a godsend.
paula jai parker’s breasts? not so much.
@Panama Jackson,
paula jai parker’s breasts? not so much.
i was actually quite surprised at her cuppage, and that rarely happens. cuppage never surprises me. i surprise cuppage
@The Champ,
‘i surprise cuppage’
I’d like to thank God n mah Mama(strong fingernails I sometimes don’t need a screwdriver box cutter{my favorite kung faux episode} or brillo pad) n Dad for these great big hands, and all the people that gave it to them to give it to me.
But I still like she hate me. Just the Daddy in me. Do you know that when I was a todler and people would ask me, ‘what do you want to be when you grow up?’ I would respond fervently, ‘a Daddy.’ one o these days I’ma plant that seed son.
@Panama Jackson,
OK that’s the realist s*it I’ve heard all day. This ni*ga say he surprise cuppage.
I am offended, you didn’t meniton “CB4.” I’m kidding.
Anyway, your list is on point although I can’t remember much about “Do the Right Thing.” [hiding black card: "don't let 'em take it away!"
I prolly would've replaced that one with Crooklyn or ***excuse me, I'm sidetracked by a clip of this WACK-tastic Bush's final speech. Who put this blush on his face, making him look like that scary puppet in Mr. Rogers Neighborhood? ***
Back to your regularly scheduled program.
Instead I would've chose: Crooklyn or Paid in Full [absolutely LOVE this movie]
@Nicki Sunshine, I’m coming over to get your black card, please have it waiting at the door
@J. McFly,
while you’re at it, take her drivers license too. her inclusion of paid in full shows that she’s obviously not fit to drive anywhere
@The Champ, word.life.
i own paid in full, but it aint a great, good, or relevant movie. Belly is more relevant than Paid in Full b/c at least it gave us living proof that failure is real and that you CAN’T do anything you set your mind too in life, re: T-Boz’s acting career.
she SUUUUUUUUUUUUCKED.
“Africa’s far!”
@8th Wonder, Hearing that line gives me thee chills.
I liked Belly but could’ve done without T Boz and Nas’ acting.
Honestly, I remember thinking that movie was cinematic genius when it came out in college…
I recently bought it after not having seen it in almost 6 years and I swear, I’m like 70% dumber after watching it. The acting was HORRIBLE. HORRIBLE.
HOOOOORRIBLE.
But I do enjoy quoting it.
“You act like we broke, I mean, what the F*ck!”
Thank you T-Boz.
@Nicki Sunshine
Paid in full???? Forreal?
I need more information as to why it should be on the list (even though it shouldn’t).
@Nicki Sunshine, Dang yaw. I loved Paid in full.. its was good drama… plus I love some Mekhi and Wood Harris..
Camron’s acting might have sucked but it was a good movie!
I can’t be the only black chick that likes it.
Champ and J: I DO bite. LOL
@Nicki Sunshine,
lol…i’m not saying i didnt like it. i was actually mildly entertained by cam in it too. it just was aggressively forgettable. like, if “forgettableness” was “being a front-running fraud-ness”, “paid in full” would be kevin garnett
@The Champ,
“being a front-running fraud-ness”, “paid in full” would be kevin garnett
*gasps…*
SAY YOU’RE SORRY!!!
@Sula In Planning.,
“being a front-running fraud-ness”, “paid in full” would be kevin garnett
*gasps…*
SAY YOU’RE SORRY!!!
i’ll apologize when kg starts taunting and trying to punk cats like ben wallace or nene or ron artest instead of tiny european back-up point guards
@The Champ,
Yes, we had 7 losses in 9 games… and yes, to even sorry teams like the BobCats… but that, a season does not define.
KG is a smart point guard who knows when to play bully and when to play smart.
See ya at the playoffs!
@The Champ, “it just was aggressively forgettable.”
Meanie! [aggressively runs into wall].
LOL.
@The Champ,
lol I aggressively agree with that!. good point.
@Nicki Sunshine,
“Paid in Full [absolutely LOVE this movie]”
Since we talking crazy today, let’s add “Love and a Bullet”
@blackberry molasses, Now see you done went over my head. I don’t know what “Love and a Bullet” is… is it is bad as Carmen: the Hip-hopera?
@Nicki Sunshine,
I loved the hilarity that was Carmen the Hip HOpera! Ew Lawd, Dorothy Dandridge was doing Olympic quality summer saults in her grave
@Intellectual Hedonist, ” doing Olympic quality summer saults in her grave”
or ran out of the heavenly gates screaming like a banshee.
That crap was awful, [looks at Beyonce: How could you?]
@Nicki Sunshine,
Love and a Bullet was Treach from NBN’s first foray into acting… outside of pron. I swear, I wanted to take my brain out of my head and scrub it after watcing that movie.
@blackberry molasses, lmAo at scrubbing of the brain.
Why did that make me think of “Hannibal”?
@Nicki Sunshine, Love and a Bullet might be one of the worst movies in the history of bad movies not too far behind Straight Outta Brooklyn:
http://jacksongtickle.com/2004/06/23/why-part-i/
damn, i wrote that nearly 5 years ago. LOL. i been writing for a long time. does that qualify as paying dues??
@sisanda
“If anyone says anything negative about Friday i will shank with a rusted piece of galvanised iron, i will wait to catch you outside the mall on Sunday and quickly stick my D*ck in your ear, i will scissor kick you in the neck, I’ll go contract Ghonoria pour petrol on your ass then piss you and sett you alight gawd damnitt!!!”
Well damn!
I have to admit *hangs my head in shame* Of the 6…I’ve only seen 2. *sigh* And of the 2, I only REALLY remember 1. *single tear*
In my defense though, I’m just not a movie person. Never have been. But I will put them on my viewing list
I think Crooklyn should be an honorable mention. It’s one of the only movies I know of (for what it’s worth…and I’ve actiually seen) that depict a REALISTIC black American family dynamic/struggle. And it’s still relevant today. Maybe not top 6. I’m no expert. But I think it belongs in the top 10.
And the Wiz. Now I know it could have been done with a cast of white people. Hell it’s based from a movie cast of white people. But that’s what makes it the Wiz. If you’re black and you’ve seen the Wizard of Oz and not the Wiz, well your just not black anymore. Period.
…and because I’m more of a TV person…why don’t we have any series/sitcoms at all? That AREN’T in syndication
@Imperfect,
i originally had the wiz in my first draft. then, i cut my list down from top “six hundred and six” to just the top six.
@The Champ, LMAO.
@The Champ,
*snickers*
I haven’t read all of the comments, but what about adding New Jack City to the Honorable Mention list. I don’t think that movie would be the same with 2520s
@N.I.A. freezinginNC….,
Was I the only one scared $hitless of crackheads after watching that movie? That movie had me awake for days. It was also the first movie I’ve ever watched on a bootleg VHS. It was pretty clear too
@eff yo couch, It was also the first movie I’ve ever watched on a bootleg VHS. It was pretty clear too
LOL!! I saw it for the first time on bootleg VHS, and that was my second bootleg experience. And it was much clearer than the first bootleg I saw.
@eff yo couch,
“Was I the only one scared $hitless of crackheads after watching that movie?”
Um, yeah – I think it was only you, lol.
@N.I.A.
“I don’t think that movie would be the same with 2520s”
That movie was BASED on a 2520 movie – Scarface.
“That movie was BASED on a 2520 movie – Scarface.”
THANK YOU!!!
@N.I.A. freezinginNC…., where in NC are you? I’m in NC as well….
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
Oh NC, I miss you! That beautiful weather!
***Teeth chatter in 15 degree cold***
I’d like to add He Got Game and New Jack City. How could you not even mention New Jack City.
@J. McFly,
like i said upthread, new jack city makes the cut if the list is extended to 10 or 15. although i loved he got game, its a still a poor-man’s “hoop dreams”
@The Champ,
He got game is the @ss crack of basketball movies!! Now the Goat was a classic!
@ champ
come on cuz..How do you leave off …..He Got Game, New Jack City, and Ray!
@Dy,
easily.
@The Champ,
easily? wow…Then u obviously didn’t notice the commendable job Jamie Foxx did in Ray Charles! Actually I didn’t even see Jamie in the movie all I saw his name in the credits though..He Got Game? No love? Ray had dudes workin on da j and gave u insight of how lovely it was to be a top high school prospect not to mention the lovely La La!.New Jack City ..was money, money, money, money, MONEY!
@Dy,
all valid points, but still, none of those movies bump off the ones on the list
@Dy,
Yeah, Jamie did go hard in Ray. I think he might have lost his mind a little playing that role.
Dude was on 106 months after Ray wrapped filming with a pair of Dark Ray-Bans acting like he was blind. Same head movements and all.
Rosewood – although anyone who sees this for the first time should be sedated.
Five Heartbeats – I could watch this 2 times a day every day.
Baby Boy – Don’t be mad. That ish was classic, and shows off PG County homegirl Teraji P’s burgeoning talent. “You ain’t gone do SH*T, Jodi!”
Holiday Heart – Watch it right after you watch Baby Boy, and bask in the acting Country Buffet that is Ving Rhaimes(sp?).
All I have for now – the list was on point.
And yeah, I’ll be around for inauguration. The boy just let me know the other day that he would be unable to go down with me b/c he’ll be sitting up front and center, and then will attend the inaugural banquet with the Prez. Then he started sangin’ and dancin’. Ole military azz bamma…grrrr!
Anywho – is anyone else going to the Stevie Wonder party on the 19th? I was thinking of going down to the city for that one.
@Lil’T,
Holiday Heart made my medula oblongata hurt
I live off the orange line so I guess that means I’ll be in the DC area
@Lil’T,
LOL @ “Holiday Heart – Watch it right after you watch Baby Boy, and bask in the acting Country Buffet that is Ving Rhaimes” , you are dumb for that, and please never list this or Baby Boy on a top list of anything unless it is a list of sanitation, garbage, I turn like door knobs or sumfin’….
@Relax, Relate, Alise, um…excuse me, Baby Boy is GREAT movie. i even wrote about it’s greatness here: http://jacksongtickle.com/2005/08/02/
@Panama Jackson,
Now I have seen baby Boy a trillion times, but because it is a comedy to me, though meant to be serious, especially when that ninja says “I lie to you because I love you…” or when Ving Rhames is making breakfast in the buff…
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
I saw Baby Boy (unfortunately) and THANKFULLY don’t remember either of these. Then again, I dont remember much of the movie outside of that wacktastical exposition at the beginning, how homegirl let this dude drive her car all the time and how he beat her and then made up to her by going down on her. EAGH!!!
@Lil’T,
I concur that Baby Boy gave a very good snapshot of the mindset of black families post 1990′s.
I personally like the cinematography of the movie (the analogies, the actual acting) and the movie had some noticeable quotables.
@Lil’T, Stop playin…Taraji is from DC. Grew up in SE, graduated from Eastern HS and Howard.
PG always tryna claim something. Pssshh.
Soul Plane. We gotta teach our kids what NOT to do.
@Jarrod Halsey,
soul plane?? That should be in the worst 6 category! That film was ignorant I barely even finished it. Soul Plane’s a flick u watch…ummmm never…
@Jarrod Halsey,
Soul Plane was horrible and I very ashamed to say that I laughed my @ss off watching that movie
*Holds head in shame*
@eff yo couch, you and me both, pal. you and me both. i was in tears at some points from laughing so hard at that movie.
i think Soul Plane gets a lot of bad press b/c of what people think the movie represents. it’s no different than many other bad Black movies…except its way funnier.
@Panama Jackson,
Soul Plane is just one of them things were your afraid to let people know you liked, because your black card will get revoked. Kind of like Watermelon and Fried Chicken.
I also want to mention that John Witherspoon’s perfomance in that movie was classic!!
“I’m a playa . . .PLAYAAAAAAAAAAAAA”
BTW – the bootleg version that came out like 6 months before the movie version is wayyyyyyyyyyy better!!
@eff yo couch,
“Soul Plane is just one of them things were your afraid to let people know you liked, because your black card will get revoked. Kind of like Watermelon and Fried Chicken.”
Naw… your BUPPIE card will get revoked. You can hang on to your black card, though
@Jarrod Halsey,
Ya know, I think people are too hard on “Soul Plane.” It was supposed to be a ridiculous movie, with tongue-in-cheek humor, and that’s EXACTLY what it is – so mission accomplished.
So for it’s purposes, it was a good movie. It was cheezy as hell, but hysterically funny at the same time. I LOVED IT!!
I don’t have any additions to the list…they’ve all been said.
And I’m sad I won’t be able to go to DC…. responsibility sucks rusty dusty crusty STD infected balls!!
@Ro,
between you and sisanda, i think we’ve filled our quota on disgusting sexual imagery for the day, lol
***Hand held up***
Live in D.C., so family and friends headed here for the big day.
The nominees are:
Purple Rain – The best concert/musical with a story, so far
Shaft – strongest film of the so called “blaxexploitation” era
When We Were Kings – gives such a great story surrounding, IMHO, Ali’s greatest fight. And a great insight into the sheer genius of Ali and his planning of the downfall of Forman.
@Swamii,
When We Were Kings – gives such a great story surrounding, IMHO, Ali’s greatest fight. And a great insight into the sheer genius of Ali and his planning of the downfall of Forman.
would have made the cut if the list extended to 20
@The Champ
Sorry, but Spike should not get two. It would be hard for me to chose one over the other however.
I would switch one out for Kings, just for the fact that it was a real story and Ali has and will have a greater reach worldwide than Spike.
I bet you if you went to Africa, more people would know Ali over Spike.
@The Champ,
And sorry, I missed the “last 30 years” part. Remove the other two from the list……………………………………..
I wish the list was for the last 40 instead of 30 years. It seems like the 80s was the worst as far as black movies. We didnt start to get good movies again until the mid to late 80s. Maybe the early to mid 80s was the hangover from the blaxploitation era? The movies went from good in the early 70s to just awful by the late 70s.
@Humble_One,
thats why i cut it off at 30. 40 would have made it too difficult, and the champ doesnt do difficult on fridays…just luvvie
I just wanted to mention House Party, even though I think 2520′s could have replaced the black actors . . .minus the dancing scenes of course
@eff yo couch,
I just wanted to mention House Party, even though I think 2520’s could have replaced the black actors . . .minus the dancing scenes of course
yeah, i considered it, but its more of a coming-of-age movie than a black one
Funny, I just had this very conversation last night while on a pretty good date. Only difference is we had The 5 Heartbeats on out list, along with Harlem Nights
@Suga&Spice,
Only difference is we had The 5 Heartbeats on out list, along with Harlem Nights
what were the other 97 movies on your list?
@Suga&Spice, Five Heartbeats is one of TWO dvd’s I own. I HEART that movie.
@Hostess,
What’s the other one? Please don’t say “Benji”
@RedBeanzNRice, Sparkle!!!
@Hostess,
Stop it.
@Hostess,
Ok, you get 2 thumbs up, lol! Sparkle was a good one too. Gotta love Irene Cara – hell, she was the original in “Fame” who couldn’t love her?
But as a side note? Um, you can purchase DVDs for under 20 bucks now, it’s ok to expand your collection, lol.
@RedBeanzNRice, Don’t forget that was when Phillip Michael Thomas was Phillip M. Thomas!!!
STIX!!!!!
And I don’t need anymore DVD’s cus I have access to netflix through my TiVo.
@Hostess,
How could I forget that green-eyed devil? *sighs* Oh he was a fine one, lol.
Well you go girl with the Netflix through Tivo jawn – can’t be mad at that, lol
@Hostess,
Five Heartbeats is one of the bestest films ever.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
Now I feel all deprived and sh*t that I’ve never seen The Five Hearbeats.
I’m surprised nobody mentioned The Learning Tree
And what about Higher Learning?
@eff yo couch, um, Higher Learning gives me hives. The ONLY great thing about higher learning is that it spawned the Remy like characters in Don’t Be A Menace…
i’ll give credit to john singleton giving it the old college try, but Higher Learning suffered from not enough film reel to be that ambitious.
@eff yo couch,
I can’t stand that movie, because like most Black movies, they try to do way too much in the confines of one movie, so in the end they tell none of the stories effectively….
Higher Learning makes me angry with 2520′s for at least 2-3 days, so I refrain from watching it.
@eff yo couch,
Is that movie when that thick chic took the d**k from the young dude in the tornado in the beginning of the movie?
@Humble_One,
That’s the one.
No has mentioned Bamboozled. That may be one of the most slept on movies of the century. It showed how negroes were actually shucking and jiving to make some money. This must be added to the list.
Sidenote: It seems like only women like the Color Purple. Is that true? I’m a dude, I didnt like it, not one bit (your acts of violence will be met with peace and tranquility)
@Pey-SO,
“No has mentioned Bamboozled. ”
Yes they did. See post #18. : )
@Pey-SO,
You know what’s funny? On one of the posters for Bamboozled, Michael Rapaport is listed as a “great black actor.” I wonder what he did to get a Black Card from Shelton?
@Voiceofreason, I think he’s played the cool white guy enough to get a black card kinda like Rob Deniro
The Women of Brewster Place would have to be on my list. The first time you really seen black women in that light. Especially a black lesbians. I think the context of that movie was definitely important to our culture.
@Eb,
This moive is the sole reason why I keep all the electric outlets in my house covered!!!
@Eb,
We need a separate tv miniseries list so that Shaka Zulu, Women of Brewster, etc. can be counted.
Oh as far as Black movies, I’ve said the same for Boomerang. It’s not a Black movie. it just had all an all Black cast.
I wanna throw Black And White on this list.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wHXqZxmEBsw
Right around 1:59 when Mike says, “If you’re not willing to be nice to someone constantly, you should ki77 em…” this movie was solidified as one of my ‘Shame to admit’ all time favorites.
@Hostess, Mike is hilarious on some retardate tryin to get a savant card typed shytz. lmao
@WuDaMan, This might be my favorite ignorant scene ever!
@Hostess,
good pick. Looks like the black wanna be bad version of Gili meets I am sam/The Ringer. ctfu
“Eyes on the Prize” anyone????
**singin** “Keep yo eyeeeese on the priiiiize, oh laaaawd….”
@nia,
The docu-mini series?
If that is what you are referring to, YES. Loved it.
Made a young grits lovin’ girl weep and mad at white folk for, like, three weeks.
@iloV.E.G.rits,
Yep!!! I watch it every year when they run it on PBS during Black History Month.
It does make you angry.
Denzel’s character in Glory was trhe most subtly hilarious character ever.
“Wasn’t nobody talkin’ to you, Pap!”
“Where you from, Field-hand?”
“I run for President” – (they should run a clip of then on the Capitol Jumbotron right before Barack takes the oath)
@Scipio Africanus,
you’re right. that oscar was well-deserved
@Scipio Africanus,
I was so relating to Denzel’s character in Glory. Morgan and Denzel’s characters were really not much different from each other. They just didn’t understand and appreciate each other until later.
I live in the DC area so any of you sexy ladies want to snuggle with the CPT, get at me. I said sexy…don’t get ahead of yourselves…
Glory was the only movie (read:only) movie that almost made the Captain cry. Not just because I was a soldier myself, but because when I saw that movie, it was the only movie with black soldiers in it and they all died. However, on the good side, it inspired me to find out everything about African-American (read:black) soldiers that I could.
@CPT Callamity,
you know, i just found out that they (the 54th) all didnt die in that battle. actually, only about 30 percent of them. i guess the movie wouldnt have had the same effect, though, if only six cats died at the end.
@The Champ,
Either way I was thoroughly upset. We didn’t take Ft. Sumner. I guess it’s the same feeling I get when reading about Black Vietnam vets. I hear that “white man’s Army”crap all the time, yet if you look at our history…we were deep in it!!!
Does anyone remember Sounder?
@Humble_One,
I do. I remember watching it as a kid. Good movie, but too old for consideration.
If the list were extended, would Juice make the cut?
@Voiceofreason,
I hope not. The only good things about Juice were Khalil Khan and Tupac. Nice eye candy for the ladies. But…that movie sucked ass. Young me liked it, older me not so much (though I still oggle). My test of a movie’s relevance…does it resonate years and years later? Kudos to Champ: every movie on his list still gets me.
@iloV.E.G.rits, slow down homey…Juice is a great movie and spawned one of the greatest movie soundtracks ever.
i’d argue that Juice is the reason that Tupac is who he is today (you know despite that little death incident). folks loved Pac’s Bishop character so much, he became Bishop. plus, the fashion alone in that movie makes it a classic.
most relevant movie to Black America? probably not, but it showed us how hard it is these streets for a Harlem youth.
plus it had Sam Jackson’s 1456789th movie appearance with bad hair. that’s got to count for something.
@Panama Jackson,
You beat me to my own response. Get out of my head.
@Panama Jackson,
Soundtrack good. Yes.
Tupac worked the hell out of the pissy script he was given: Yes.
Movie good? no.
Sowwy
“i’d argue that Juice is the reason that Tupac is who he is today (you know despite that little death incident). ”
Panny, go sit down.
@8th Wonder, If you study his life, Pan might be right
@Panama Jackson,
The scene at the lockers was the best… (I know this movie verbatim…. don’t judge me)
*Alise clears throat*:
“Q: Bishop, you’re crazy!
Bishop: You know what? Last time you said that, I was kinda trippin’, right? But now, you’re right. I am crazy. And you know what else? I don’t give a f*ck. I don’t give a f*ck about you. I don’t give a fuck about Steel. I don’t give a *f*ck* about Raheem, either. I don’t give a f*ck about myself. Look, I ain’t sh*t. And you less of a man than me, so as soon as I figure you ain’t gon be sh*t, *pow*! “
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
Yes!!! I thought I was the only one who had that scene memorized. But you left out, “Remember that. Patna!”
Don’t forget to write in the stage notes: Bishop angrily turns back on Q; places hood on head and walks away. End scene.
Anyone remember the movie “A hero ain’t nothing but a sandwich”? I wouldn’t inclue this in the top 6 . . .Hell not even the top 20 , but it does deserves a shout out
@eff yo couch,
I saw that when I was a kid. I remember liking it then, but I wonder how I might feel about it if I watch it as an adult.
One of the most disappointing films that could have been really good was dang-on Barbershop, that setting had so much poetentially funny things they could have done with it, then they got a second chance and made that one even worse.. smh…. I would have loved a movie showing the Mi-T-Sharp barbershop from Coming To America, that would have been funlarious!
A-HA!
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
barbershop is actually an honorable mention for me, if i had honorable mentions.
HOLD UP . . .nobody mentioned Beat Street??? The acting was horrible, but this is liek the first movie that gave us a look at all the elements of the hip hop culture. and for that reason alone, I think it deserves to be in the top 15 maybe 20.
Honorable mention: Krush Groove,
I needed a box of Ritz crackers to watch the movies “Rappin” & “Breakin parts 1 and 2″ because they were just cheesy
@eff yo couch,
*closes door to office*
(Sings while pop lockin)
Krush…Groooovin…Body Moviiiiiiin
(Beat box Break)
Gets a hold of myself…opens office door
@CPT Callamity,
I’m just mad that you’re pop lockin. Do you have a jheri curl, too?
@RedBeanzNRice,
Yeah, my Stoney Jackson Curl Kit came in yesterday along with my Ready for the World Headrest covers for the car.
@CPT Callamity,
are those (Ready for the World Headrest covers for the car) the ones with their picture on the reverse side?
@Intellectual Hedonist,
Yeah, along with a pack of stickers, a fan club membership card and button.
@Intellectual Hedonist,
What about your Full Force moisture retention cap and NWA Spray Bottle?
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
Oh heck yeah…now in Stainless Steel. If I save up enough UPC points I get a Sportin Waves running suit and a pair of Troop Ice Lambs.
@CPT Callamity,
Ah…Ready for the Curl, I mean World. Miss that group.
@CPT Callamity,
LMAO! Not “Ready for the World” headrest covers. I laughed so hard I think I peed a little.
@eff yo couch,
My 7 year old son watched Breakin 2 on TV One one day. Then he watched everyday for about a month after that. Wantin me to buy him some Chucks like Turbo. Then he was mad when I brought them home….talkin bout he want the ones that come up to the knee. What in the hell???
Then he gon step to me wantin to have a dance battle, pointin to his radio, talkin bout “Box!” Yeah…I had to gon and start tickin and shut him down like we was in the streets. I don’t care that you a lil’ boy! Don’t come at me like that!!
@nia,
lol. I thought I was the only one that battles their kids. Me and my daughter like to go at it after we watch “Stomp the yard”
@eff yo couch @nia
I knew there was a reason that I contemplate having kids from time to time. Besides making them my own personal housekeepers, we can have dance battles.
@V Renee,
Oooo, I thought I was the only one! I think my mom changed my name to Helena Housekeeper when I turned 9 or so, and I FULLY plan on doing the same to my kids. When I have them, that is.
@V Renee,
“Besides making them my own personal housekeepers,”
SMDH. You sound like my Mama, back in ’89! All that does is breed resentment, anger, and frustration.
I keep telling her she’ll get it back when she’s in her 80′s and I put her in a home.
@V Renee, Those are the best reasons to have kids!
*looks at remote @ the end of the bed*
Yells down to Tina: “Come do Mommy a favor!”
Oh yes, they do come in handy.
@nia,
LOL. That’s too cute.
@nia,
That was hilarious and so cute! Can’t wait to battle my B-girl stance with the kiddies.
Amistad should be on this list IMHO.
The scene where the African woman takes her child and goes over the side of the ship to their death instead of being enslaved was one of the most disturbing scenes that I’ve ever seen.
@thePhiladelphiaNegro,
Co-sign. I was mad that they jacked that scene and tried to put it in the movie “Beloved”
@thePhiladelphiaNegro,
i so totally agree. Amistad is one of those movies that I have never been able to sit through a second time. Just too overwhelming, but definitely one of the Must see films
My dad took me to go see that in the theatres, and it was the hardest time I have ever had watching a movie.
One time I looked over and my dad was crying.
Sadness.
@thePhiladelphiaNegro,
amistad is one of those movies that should have been better than it was. it was just missing something. i dont know what exactly “it” was, but it was missing.
i just didn’t feel it that much.
@thePhiladelphiaNegro,
I was thinking about Amistad as well.
But the cast was not predominantly Black and it tends to kinda be the same “white man saves the black man in distress type thing”
Though it’s a cartoon with white actors doing a majority of the voices, The Lion King is a black movie!!! You can’t front on the circle of life and shyt
@eff yo couch,
I see I found a fellow cartoon aficionado.
Kumbayah my brother.
@Sula In Planning., i think you mean hakuna matata….such a wonderful phrase…
“Is you a ol man or a ol Woman? I forgets.” Glory
@Benzell Washington,
“oh, really? you free? then why don’t you move your free black ass out my spot, see!”
@The Champ,
Yes. excellent s*it see. Neither one’s point is any less true or poignant than the other. It is interesting the character traits that we have chosen to asssociate with our own points of view and are drawn to in Morgan and Denzell’s roles in Glory.
School Daze is my all time favorite movie. i did not have the same appreciation for “Stomp The Yard”. I actually thought that it was an awful film even though I genuinely liked a few of the actors/actresses other work in different films.
Do yall know that it is -17 here in Chicago today.
Happy Friday to Everyone and Have a Pleasant Weekend!
@Jenna Marie Christian,
its -10 in the burgh. my truck did the perculator for 5 minutes before it started this morning
@The Champ,
lol..now that’s funny. I take the train to work in downtown chicago and no lie, my eyelashes had frost on them. I looked like a character out of an animated film:-)
Since we are talking about black movies today and want to ask you good people, am I the only that’s tired of all the promotion this Biggie movie is getting??? They way they are advertising the shyt out of this movie, you would think that Biggie was running for President!!!! I’m sorry but I will not spend one red cent on this movie, but I will cop it on bootleg. I got to support my Asian and African brothers in the struggle.
@eff yo couch,
I feel like “Notorious” is going to be that HAWT GAHBAGE. I will probably watch it on bootleg, strictly on GP. But I won’ t like it.
@eff yo couch
I will probably get the bootleg version too….Just so I can see why Lil Kim is so pissed at how she was portrayed.
@V Renee,
She’s pissed because the character wasn’t played by the muppet Janice seen here –> http://www.drummerworld.com/pics/drum46/animal1.jpg
She’s the one on the far right
@eff yo couch
LMAO
@V Renee, I will probably get the bootleg version too….Just so I can see why Lil Kim is so pissed at how she was portrayed.
That’s the only reason why I want to see it….
@eff yo couch,
They are promoting it like that because they know there is no way in h3ll, people with actual buying power (read their target market aka black people over the age of …say 21) will willingly put money on it.
The previews look awful. The acting awful-ler. Plus, what are they going to tell us that we weren’t there to witness/experience.
I heart Derek Luke but I think he should have passed on this one.
I’m a little mad the lack of explanation of The Color Purple… One of the most amazing books I’ve ever read AND the movie has some amazing performances. Whoopi is probably one of the most underrated black actresses in the world.
@revengeof thenerdette,
just a little mad? damn. i’m obviously not doing my job
School Daze is my favorite movie, I sweartaghadt! I can quote that joint all day long. Hell, the only reason I watched that damn Teenage Love Affair video was because it was a SD depiction.
Oh, and one of my teachers in high school acted in Glory.
Shot out to Mr. Kennedy!
A few that should have been on the list:
New Jack City – this movie had so many quotables. “Sit yo $5 azz down before I make change.” “I was proooom queeeen.” “I got my jimmy whacked everyday last week!” and my fav, “CANCEL this b*tch!!! I’ll buy me another one.”
Friday – only black charcters would make this movie work. you replace the black characters and you get Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle
Boyz N Da Hood – One word… “Rickyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy”
@SouthernCharm,
***sheddin a little tear*** They coulda just shot him in the leg!! Why dey hafta kill him???? I blame Doughboy!! If it wasn’t for his jealous azz, Ricky woulda never got shot and sh*t!!
***crickets***
Ok…..I’m back.
@nia,
It wasn’t Doughboy’s fault. It was that trife mother’s fault. She favored Ricky, he couldn’t help but be jealous.
@Voiceofreason,
Was anybody besides me embarrassed for them when the college scout came by their house and the walls in the living room where filthy as hell thanks to Doughboy’s greasy azz curl? And Ricky’s girlfriend looking extra hoodratty. Ugh.
@SouthernCharm,
Yep….New Jack was hot…as well as the soundtrack.
“I never liked you anyway…pretty mf’er!!!”
@SouthernCharm,
“CANCEL THIS B!TCH I’LL BUY ME ANOTHER ONE!!!” HILARIOUS!!!!
@SouthernCharm,
“IDOLATOR!!! YOUR SOUL IS REQUIRED IN HELL!!!”
You know you a bad person when a preacher kills you.
@Wood,
Riiight?!
Our blog has lots of info Around Harlem, Around NYC and in DC.
Here’s the URL: http://blog-aroundharlem.com/
There is also more in the mailbox, so tell everyone to check back daily for updates.
April
“honestly, it took me at least six years to realize that shari headley was maybe the 6th or 7th most attractive woman in that movie. color-struckedness is a b*tch”
This just mad me cackle, for real….lol
@miss t-lee,
Girl, who are you tellin’? Yeah, I thought they were showing a mini movie on her five head the whole time….even the little sister had it all over her. Dam Eddie and his bamma ways! Ole skin-tight leather lookin’ boi…
@Lil’T,
Exactly. I always thought her sister was the much prettier of the two…lol
@miss t-lee,
You know how some men are when it comes to long hair. It’s like they think it automatically makes a woman more beautiful than ones with shorter hair. And I’m not even gonna get into them d@mn light-skinned thing. It makes me tired.
I dunno son, her little sister was scary @ me, all wide-eyed and frail-lookin.
@8th Wonder, me too.
This list isn’t complete without at least an Honorable Mention for Lean On Me!!!!
@almondjoy,
“They used to call me ‘Crazy Joe.’ Well, now they can call me ‘Batman!’”
Love it.
@almondjoy,
I guess but really that’s just like the Substitute.
@Wood,
Naaaahhh, you can’t re-create the tension between Morgan “Jesus Was My Pupil” Freeman and whoever that lady was playing the PTA president. You know, the one with the big eyes and the jowls. Homegirl was not for games.
@Lil’T,
That’s true but I mean the premise is still the same. BAD AZZ SCHOOL that needs somebody to clean it up.
@Lil’T, That was Lynn Thigpen (RIP). Remember she was on “Where In The World Is Carmen San Diego?”
@almondjoy,
“Ya smoke crack don’t ya?”
“Fair Eastsiiiiiiiiii-ii-ii-iiiiide”
“They used to call me crazy Joe, now they call me Batman”
“We don’t want a good principal, we want Mr. Clark!”
love that shyt…
@Relax, Relate, Alise,
Don’t forget “I’m the H.N.I.C.”
*giggles*
@miss t-lee,
being able to have and USE that quote is why I will FOREVER love that movie. I do change it to H.B.I.C. on occasion
@almondjoy, lol…good movie, but, eh…i forget it exists until it comes on.
Coming To America i think about in my sleep. LOL.
@ Champ,
“honestly, it took me at least six years to realize that shari headley was maybe the 6th or 7th most attractive woman in that movie. color-struckedness is a b*tch”
I’m with you on this. But sadly I will say I was grown before I realized it. Man cause her sister would have got it before anybody. I mean she played with my man AT A PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL GAME!!! She was a freak and fine.
But I would have definitely went back and when on ahead and made Vanessa Bell Calloway my wifey. A woman you don’t have to argue with. UTOPIA party of 1.
@Wood,
Man cause her sister would have got it before anybody. I mean she played with my man AT A PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL GAME!!! She was a freak and fine.
**nodding head**
last honorable mention that hasn’t been mentioned yet:
jungle fever
forget about the interracial aspect (which was the weakest part of the movie), this flick dealt with intraracial and intracultural conflicts, explicitly showed the damage crack can do to a family, and contained one of the saddest on screen murders of all-time.
plus, any flick where halle berry offers head for a hit is good in my book.
@The Champ, and Sam Jackson ALSO had bad hair in thise movie…and went by the name…
Gator Purify…
I’ll do it, I’ll do it, hey, you know i’ll do it…cuz i’m a cr-cr-cr-cr-craaaaaaackhead.
@Panama Jackson,
cr cr cr cr cracking the eff up. lol
and that name what does it mean is he some sort of prophetic genocidal preemble to Katrina. Does he symbolize the gators in the sewer? as in purify yo shyt? Or is he like some kind o bayou gangstar?
@WuDaMan,
remember, wesley’s name in the movie was flipper too. i think spike just lost a bet
@Panama Jackson,
“I smoked the TV MAMA!!!!”
@Intellectual Hedonist,
I still say this line every time I see an extra tragic crackhead roaming these mean DC streets.
@PBG,
Gurl you must walk around looking like you have turets in these DC streets
@The Champ, dag son
*slow clap* no pun intended.
@The Champ,
I just watched this for the fiftyleventh time on demand last night.
@The Champ,
Yeah, this one is a classic. I love when the father takes em to church at the dinner table! Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis acted their a**es off in that one!
ok y’all next stop inauguration see you at the crossroads!
circa1908@yahoo.com someone please hit me up to inform me of a meet.
gracias
Did anyone name Suga Hill?
@Pey-SO,
if an az song with your namesake is better than the actual movie, then you dont deserve a mention
@The Champ, Bite yo tongue
my name is peaches, and i’m the best. all the DJs want to feel my breast….
@A Plus,
Ih-up
ih-up
ih-up
ih-up!
@A Plus,
A Plus? It’s more like an F on this rhyme however you probably like this MC to touch your breast.
@Arafat Khadafi,
she was quoting “Coming to America”… one of the many awesome quotables from that great (but IGNANT) movie
@blackberry molasses,
Thanks, I guess I’m not up on my “Coming To America” notable quoteables. Hell it was just on cable last week. I watched it until I had enough.
absolutely LOVE this site, but for movied how did u leave off ‘Love Jones??’
p.s–and i will be in DC for the inaguration.
@natural nubian,
welcome and sh*t. and…ok. lets say i included love jones. which movie would you remove from the list?
@The Champ, Malcolm X…sorry. I like Malcolm X the man, the mission…the movie wasnt that great to me. Its one of those things that needed to be done so its get an “A” for effort but I didnt enjoy the movie. By the way… I just got turned on to your blogs and I LOVE LOVE LOVE them.
@natural nubian,
Welcome!!! **Diva Dust v. 2.0 ™**
Sorry… the welcome committee had actual ‘work’ to do today n’ sh*t.
@blackberry molasses,
you ain’t lying. I dread the week each month this report comes around.
@natural nubian,
welcome!!! *shooting gold stars*
@natural nubian, Welcome VSS! ****glitter****
See me or Imam Overit over in the Prayer Cubicle for any all spiritual matters. Your name is being added to the roster for prayer because @ VSB, we’re all in need.
Some more than others (*cough*Luvvie*cough*).
Good list! Definitely some of my favs but for different reasons. Denzel should have gotten an Oscar then for the whippin scene! ONE TEAR..now thats acting. Never thought the light chic from Coming to America was cute. There definitely was some colorstruckedness going on because her sister was supposed to be the ugly, fast one. They didnt even try to match complexions lol. THey picked the darkest girl with the kinkiest hair. AND SHE WAS ACTUALLY PRETTIER THAN LEAD CHIC! Oh…and I love Color Purple. One of my favorite movies. I can watch it over and over again!
@Yaa, Hello Miss Lady.
Denzel did win the Oscar for his role in “Glory”. Support Actor, as it were.
I still get to sniffling when I watch that scene.
@PBG, That scene got me out of many an a$$ whoopin. Whenever my mom was about to whip me I’d post up JUST like Denzel and she just couldnt bring herself to beat me in that position! lol.
@Yaa, By the time “Glory” came out, I was done gettin’ butt whuppin’s, but I doubt if that would’ve swayed my Mama one way or the other. lol!
Arthur Agee’s dad was so sad. That killed me the first time I saw that movie. It was so heartbreaking to watch him whup his dad in hoops, then see his dad go run to the dopeman to cop his fix. That was some real life ish right there.
Also, I had damn near the whole move Juice memorized as a teenager. My brother and I would watch it every night before we went to bed.
That scene with Pac at the lockers was the business.
Ummmm, I know I’m a new comer and all but shouldn’t Dead Presidents be on the list? Don’t be a Menance wasn’t all that great……to be an “important” movie for blacks. If thats the case, then we should add “BAP” with Halle Barry.
@BK,
Welcome!!! **Diva Dust v. 2.0 ™**
like i said above, the welcome committee had actual ‘work’ to do today n’ sh*t.
@BK,
(mad late) welcome!!! *shooting gold stars*
Okay, I meant to type Menance to Society-Not Don’t be a Menance.
gonna be in DC tuesday, somebody shoot me a kite to rockmics@gmail.com. much appreciated.
This whole post has turned the PBG Official Inaugural Slumber Party into a Celebration of Black Cinema.
Saturday night in the Heart of The City. That Ignant African Luvvie is already on her way and I have the fruit for punch is soaking in rum. Mmhmm.
Yes We Can n’ shyt.
Luvvie says that anybody that wants to meet up this weekend needs to shoot her an email @ luvvie20@gmail.com.
“… you can’t ignore the intra-racial impact of prince hakeem discarding a banging, barking, brown-skinned nubian princess for a giant foreheaded, light-skinned, bootlegged, burger chain heiress on an impressionable black populace. honestly, it took me at least six years to realize that shari headley was maybe the 6th or 7th most attractive woman in that movie. color-struckedness is a b*tch”
I’ve been saying that ish since I was 10! Nobody listened!
My commentary was actaully more along the lines of “She funny looking. The princess girl looks like my Barbie. And she was funny. Why didn’t he marry her?” But it’s the same thing!
Hm.
The only movie in that list that I’ve seen is Menace.
My grandpa used to watch Coming to America *EVERYDAY* when I was in elementary school…but he never let me watch it. lol
My sister and I are currently watching A Soldier’s Story, and it should definitely be on the list. Check out the synopsis and the trailer…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Soldier%27s_Story
http://www.alltrailers.net/a-soldier-s-story.html
“When We Were Kings”
No movie captures the international appeal of Muhammad Ali better. The intraracial implications of Ali v. Foreman were so unlike Ali v. Frazier – inverted even. But in Zaire, it all made sense. Gotta include this one in Honorable Mention at least.
***also, from a racial rabble-rousing point of view, you can’t ignore the intra-racial impact of prince hakeem discarding a banging, barking, brown-skinned nubian princess for a giant foreheaded, light-skinned, bootlegged, burger chain heiress on an impressionable black populace. honestly, it took me at least six years to realize that shari headley was maybe the 6th or 7th most attractive woman in that movie. color-struckedness is a b*tch.***
THIS IS THE REALIST STATEMENT EVER WRITEN ABOUT THIS MOVIE PREAAACCCCHHHH
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