Thanksgiving is here, and it’s time to be with your family–and what better way to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner than by watching these Black-led Thanksgiving films.
These movies won’t just entertain–they also show Black culture, life, and history, making them the perfect entertainment for the season.
So, check out these Black-led Thanksgiving films with your loved ones!
Soul Food
Genre: Drama
Release Date: September 26, 1997
Cast: Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, Nia Long, Michael Beach, Mekhi Phifer, Jeffrey D. Sams, Irma P. Hall
Soul Food is among the quintessential Black-led Thanksgiving films.
The film follows the challenges an extended Black family faces.
The family follows longstanding family traditions, but they are in danger of being forgotten as the family prioritizes handling their issues.
With drama, humor, and heart, “Soul Food” resonates with anyone who appreciates the value of family ties and the simple joy of sharing a meal together.
Who Made the Potatoe Salad?
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Release Date: November 7, 2006
Cast: Jaleel White, Jennia Fredrique, Eddie Griffin, Clifton Powell
Jaleel White might be most famous for his role as Steve Urkel in the hit 90s comedy Family Matters, but this is a must-watch flick if you’re a fan.
‘Who Made the Potatoe Salad?’ is a romantic comedy following a cop who travels to LA to spend Thanksgiving with his fiance.
However, he meets her dysfunctional family, and things go downhill from there.
Meeting your in-laws is rarely smooth sailing, and this film plays on that to deliver lots of laughs.
Friendsgiving
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Release Date: October 23, 2020
Cast: Aisha Tyler, Wanda Sykes, Malin Akerman
Friendsgiving is among the most heartwarming Black-led Thanksgiving films.
It follows two best friends who want to spend a low-key Thanksgiving together.
But when they invite some friends over for dinner, their Thanksgiving becomes anything but quiet.
Friendsgiving has laughs and hearts and is relatable.
Madea’s Family Reunion
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Release Date: February 24, 2006
Cast: Tyler Perry, Blair Underwood, Lynn Whitfield, Boris Kodjoe, Henry Simmons, Lisa Arrindell Anderson, Maya Angelou, Keke Palmer, Cicely Tyson
You either love or hate Tyler Perry’s Madea series of films–they know what they are and who they are for.
Madea’s Family Reunion is no different.
It’s literally the most Tyler Perry-esque film to watch this Thanksgiving–even though it doesn’t specifically occur during Thanksgiving.
The film follows the titular Madea as she prepares for a family reunion and deals with all the drama that ensues when the family comes together.
Madea’s Family Reunion is among the most star-studded Black-led Thanksgiving films, with a stellar cast ranging from Tyler Perry himself to Keke Palmer, Maya Angelou, and more.
The Oath
Genre: Comedy
Release Date: October 12, 2018
Cast: Tiffany Haddish, John Cho
If you like your comedy with a touch of darkness, The Oath is among the most interesting Black-led Thanksgiving films to watch.
It’s set in a near future where the US Government asks its citizens to sign an oath swearing allegiance to the nation by the day after Thanksgiving: Black Friday.
The film follows a young couple on Thanksgiving as their families visit.
However, the families are divided on whether they should sign or ignore the loyalty pledge–which leads to several hilarious conversations and scenes.
Traitor
Genre: Thriller
Release Date: August 27, 2008
Cast: Don Cheadle, Guy Pearce
Traitor is among the most heart-pounding Black-led Thanksgiving films if you’re looking for something thrilling.
This spy thriller follows a former soldier and explosives expert who becomes the prime suspect when several terror attacks target civilians in different locations.
Traitor is full of twists and will keep you guessing until the credits roll.
These Black-Led Thanksgiving Films Are Essential Viewing
Check out these films this Thanksgiving.
From family-friendly to dark and thrilling, they cover all the bases and will make your holiday even more memorable.
