What to Watch for Black History Month and Beyond

Since its inception in 1915, Black History Month has served to document the journey of Black people from enslavement, chronicle the ongoing fight for equality and civil rights, and celebrate the Black community's significant contributions to society. Now, each February and beyond, major streaming platforms—Netflix, Disney+, Max, Prime Video, Peacock, Paramount+, Apple TV+, and Hulu—leverage this national observance to showcase films and shows created by Black artists and featuring Black talent.

This is an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of Black activists, icons, and pioneers, adding crucial context—or correcting misconceptions—about what you may have learned in US history through compelling documentaries. Whether you aim to expand your viewing list with content showcasing Black creatives on-screen and behind the camera, or simply wish to (re)watch influential films and shows that shaped and continue to shape culture, Black History Month provides a rich resource.

Jump to the streaming platform picks:

What to Watch on Apple TV+ What to Watch on Disney+ What to Watch on Hulu What to Watch on Max What to Watch on Netflix What to Watch on Peacock What to Watch on Paramount+ What to Watch on Prime Video

Exploring and celebrating Black creativity is readily accessible; simply choosing a few films and shows featuring Black casts or centering Black perspectives can be profoundly impactful. You might discover unexpected connections and relatable experiences. To help you curate your watchlist and continue reflecting on and celebrating Black history, below are some of the best and most popular titles available on these streaming platforms.