Black History Month takes place every February and is a time to honor African American history, culture, and achievement. It’s a great time to celebrate and watch Black movies and documentaries, and Hoopla has lots of choices. 

This curated list highlights notable Black history movies and documentaries focused on influential people, landmark events, and cultural contributions. These films are ideal for family movie nights and February evenings at home. And they are free on Hoopla—all you need is your library card! 

Black History Movies and Black History Documentaries to Stream Free on Hoopla

I Am Not Your Negro (2017) is free to watch on Hoopla

I Am Not Your Negro (2017)

Raoul Peck envisions the James Baldwin book that was never completed, Remember This House. The film examines Black history, linking the civil rights era to #BlackLivesMatter, while challenging Hollywood’s portrayals and reflecting on the lives and murders of Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr.

Selma (2014)  

The Oscar-winning team behind 12 Years a Slave tells a powerful true story starring David Oyelowo and Oprah Winfrey. Despite brutal resistance, Martin Luther King Jr. led the historic Selma to Montgomery march, helping spark change that reshaped the world.

Little Richard: I Am Everything (2023) 

This film dives into the life of Richard Penniman, celebrating him as the Black, queer pioneer of rock n’ roll. It explores his contradictions—faith, sexuality, and fame—while showing how his flamboyant style shaped the genre, even as others like Elvis and Pat Boone got the credit.

Soul Food Sunday (2021)  

The celebrated children’s book comes to life in this 19-minute film. At Granny’s, Sunday always means family and a home-cooked feast. Now old enough, the narrator finally helps in the kitchen, working alongside Granny. When the cooking seems done, he adds his own special touch, making the tradition even sweeter for years ahead. 

Black Patriots: Buffalo Soldiers (2022)  

This documentary, narrated by Blair Underwood, explores the lives of soldiers who served after the Civil War, spotlighting the first all-Black peacetime regiments. Through expert interviews and rare archives, it celebrates their courage, their role in the West and National Parks, and their ongoing fight against racism.

The Central Park Five (2013)  

From award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns comes a powerful look at the Central Park jogger case. Told through the voices of five Black and Latino teens from Harlem, the film shows how their wrongful 1989 convictions devastated their lives and exposed a profound miscarriage of justice.

More Movies for Black History Month 

Hoopla’s collection is always growing and includes dramas, documentaries, music, history, and family fare. Browse Hoopla’s films and find your next favorite or watch the movie you’ve always been meaning to, during Black History Month and beyond. 

*Titles may vary by library