In honour of Black History Month in October, we have put together a selection of great films to be considered for virtual or hybrid screenings celebrating Black Cinema throughout October… and anytime of the year.
View the full Black History Month collection of films available to screen with Virtual Screening Room and Hybrid Screening.
Or learn more about Virtual Screening Room and Hybrid Screening.
Spotlight on
Belle (2013) and The Hate U Give (2018) are two impactful films that we particularly want to shine the spotlight on. Both films centre on strong black female leads and showcase the remarkable performances from Gugu Mbatha-raw in Belle and Amandla Stenberg in The Hate U Give.
Belle (2013)
Inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, this powerful film stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw as the mixed-race daughter of a British Navy officer raised by her wealthy great-uncle (Tom Wilkinson) and his wife (Emily Watson). Although racism prevents her from enjoying the full advantages of her upbringing, Belle’s love for an idealistic young man sparks change that may impact generations to come.
The Hate U Give (2018)
Based on the best-selling novel, The Hate U Give tells the story of Starr Carter, who lives in two worlds: the poor, black neighborhood where she resides and the mostly white prep school she attends. This uneasy balance is shattered when she witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend by a policeman. Facing pressures from all sides, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what’s right.
To learn more about Black History Month UK and the nationwide celebrations of Black History, visit https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk.
For 2021, Black History Month UK have curated the commemoration around Black Lives Matter with their new campaign slogan 'Proud To Be...' as they are actively encouraging all Black and Brown people, especially children to be proud of their African or Caribbean roots. By not finishing the statement so that the students then complete the slogan revealing whatever they are proud to be or proud of.
For example:
• Proud To Be Black
• Proud To Be Black With Natural Afro Hair
• Proud To BE Black and LGBT
• Proud to be Black and British
• Proud To Be Me
If we are not proud to be who we are, then who can be proud of us, or even worse why should anyone be proud of us if we are not proud of ourselves? So, Be Bold, Be Brave & Be Proud!