Iconic 90s Black Movies My kids Have Got to Watch

The other day, I found myself in a parenting pickle that had me questioning every parenting move I’ve ever made.

It all started innocently enough. Watching TV, a commercial for a show came on/ My daughter, cool as a cucumber turned to me and remarked:

“It’s cool Angela Bassett went from that 9/11 show to Black Panther. Lots of TV actresses aren’t in such huge movies, right?”

Wait. What?

I just about fell off my chair.

Of course, I’m all for celebrating Angela’s brilliance!  But did my daughter have no clue about this Queen’s iconic roles before her time in Wakanda?

I mean, here I am, thinking I’ve provided a solid cultural education for my kids. But suddenly I’m faced with the harsh reality that they’re missing out on some cinematic gold.

As I sat there processing this revelation, it felt like a scene straight out of a comedy. Me, stunned into silence, wondering where I went wrong in my parental duties. I could almost hear the collective gasps of disbelief I imagined them swooping in to confiscate my Black Parent card.

My sense of shame is rooted in my feeling that I neglected to introduce my kids to a period of what I can only call a renaissance in Black movies.

What made 90s movies iconic…

For a time in the 90s, a Black character in a movie wasn’t a novelty. Black movies centred on and starred us. We weren’t tokenized and were rarely relegated to the status of “best friend” or sidekick. Black movies of the 1990s told diverse stories. This was a time of iconic directors, producers and screenwriters – from Spike Lee, John Singleton and the Hughes brothers to Ice Cube. Black actors who still light up our screens today played characters with depth and told stories that painted a full picture of Black humanity.

From comedies to family dramas to Rom-Coms and yes gritty dramas and historical pieces – we were representing on screen.

I feel like I should be shaking a fist or a cane. Waving and aggressively proclaiming, “Back in my day”!! But for real, some things were richer and different in the 90s.

Something magical was happening back in the day which it seems like we lost.

As I reflected on this humbling moment with my firstborn, I realized I’d overlooked a crucial aspect of my kids’ cultural education. I needed to share the cinematic treasures that defined my teenage years. I want my kids to see those ’90s Black movies! The ones that gave us visibility in a way I just don’t see happening in today’s box office-obsessed cinema.

A 90s Black movie marathon offers something for every family

With my memories as my guide, my kids are in for a crash course in ’90s Black movies.

I’ve created a watch list worthy of the ages and for all ages and stages of family life. Whether your kids seek a family sing-a-long, a good laugh or are ready for action, dramas or even horry, we got you.

Let this 90s Black movie marathon commence!

’90s Black Family Comedies & Classics

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” (1997)

The Nutty Professor (1996)

Taking on multiple roles in this comedy gem, Eddie Murphy plays Professor Sherman Klump, the brilliant but socially awkward professor who creates a potion that transforms him into a suave yet obnoxious ladies’ man, Buddy Love. Managing his alter ego things get hilariously out of control.

Sister Act: (1992)

Whoopi Goldberg shines as Deloris Van Cartier, a sassy lounge singer. When she witnesses a crime Deloris is placed in protective custody in a convent. Hilarity ensues as Deloris clashes with the convent’s strict rules but ultimately brings joy and a newfound sense of community to the nuns.

House Party (1991) 

Starring hip-hop duo Kid n’ Play, this movie follows high school students with aspirations of becoming famous club promoters. To achieve their dreams, these best buddies throw the ultimate house party all while trying to impress their crush, evade bullies and hide all of this from his parents. Filled with outrageous humour, allll the 1990s dance moves, and memorable performances by Kid ‘n Play, House Party is a quintessential coming-of-age comedy.

Friday (1995) 

Ice Cube and Chris Tucker star in this hilarious comedy. The firm covers a day in the life of two friends in South Central Los Angeles. This is a film that is best enjoyed by older teens. Its quotable lines, memorable characters, and laid-back vibe make Friday a beloved cult classic.

Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993)

Returning as Deloris Van Cartier, Whoopi Goldberg stars in this sequel which sees her once again donning a nuns habit. But this time her antics are needed to help a struggling inner-city school. With the help of her musical talents and the spirited students, Deloris transforms the school’s choir. With a young Lauryn Hill on the cast, this movie features several familiar faces that kids will easily recognize.

 

90s Black Action Movies

Blade (1998)

Blade is an American superhero that marked the inception of the Blade franchise. The film is often celebrated for its pivotal role in revitalizing Marvel’s cinematic presence. Wesley Snipes plays Blade, a unique blend of human and vampire waging war against the undead.

Bad Boys (1995)

With the latest Bad Boys sequel set for release almost 30 years after its debut, I was determined to take our kids back to where it all began!  In this first installment of the now-infamous Bad Boys franchise, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence play two detectives who must protect a witness to a murder.  The movie delivers action-packed thrills, laughs, and moments of genuine camaraderie that elevate this from a buddy cop film to a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades.

Set It Off (1996) 

Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Vivica A. Fox, and Kimberly Elise star in this thrilling heist drama. Four friends turn to bank robbery as a means of escaping poverty and oppression in Los Angeles. With its dynamic performances and gripping storyline, Set It Off is a pulse-pounding ride that delves into themes of loyalty, sisterhood, and survival.

’90s Black Dramas 

Soul Food (1997)

Soul Food has endured as one of my all-time favourite movies. I loved every single thing about this movie – from its unforgettable and iconic soundtrack, its storylines and its stars who ignite the screen. This family drama follows the close-knit Joseph family as they try to keep alive its longstanding tradition of Sunday dinners through change, heartache and of course family drama.

Boyz n the Hood (1991)

Directed by John Singleton, this powerful drama follows the lives of three young men growing up in South Central Los Angeles and grappling with the challenges of gang violence, poverty, and racial inequality. Moving and unforgettable performances are delivered by an outstanding cast including Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, Angela Bassett, Laurence Fishburne, Nia Long and Regina King. With its raw authenticity, Boyz n the Hood is not a movie for the faint of heart but a compelling watch.

 

New Jack City (1991)

Set in 1986 Harlem, New Jack City (1991) chronicles the crack epidemic and explores the rise and fall of a drug dealer and their empire. The story depicts the ascent of Nino Brown, portrayed by Wesley Snipes, to Harlem turf ruler and ruthless kingpin. This is a movie for older kids, and teens might also recognize many others in its cast including Chris Rock, Ice-T and Michael Michele. This is a blistering crime thriller and gangster film filled with intense action sequences, memorable characters, and social commentary.

Waiting to Exhale (1995) 

Waiting to Exhale was one of my favourite books – when they turned into a classic movie and didn’t mess it up, I was thrilled!  The movie stars Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon bringing to life Terry McMillan’s endearing novel – what else needs to be said? This book-turned-movie is an empowering drama about friends navigating everything that life throws at them.

Poetic Justice (1993)

Jackson plays Justice, a poet mourning the loss of her boyfriend, who goes on a road trip from South Central L.A. to Oakland.  With poetic dialogue and authentic portrayal of healing and Black love, Poetic Justice remains a timeless classic.

 

What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993)

Angela Bassett delivers a powerhouse performance as Tina Turner in this biographical drama chronicling the iconic singer’s tumultuous rise to stardom and her abusive relationship with Ike Turner (portrayed by Laurence Fishburne). With its electrifying performances and unflinching portrayal of resilience, What’s Love Got to Do with It is a must-watch for fans of music and cinema alike.

 

Malcolm X (1992)

Directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington in an Oscar-nominated performance, this epic biographical drama chronicles the life and legacy of civil rights leader Malcolm X, from his early years to his transformation into a powerful voice for Black empowerment. With Washington’s indelible talent, gripping storytelling and powerful message, Malcolm X is a masterpiece that every kid today should watch.

 

Juice (1992)

In the gripping thriller Juice, four inseparable teenagers from Harlem—Q (Omar Epps), Bishop (Tupac Shakur), Raheem, and Steel—find themselves embroiled in the pursuit of power and happiness, which they refer to as “the juice.” When a robbery takes an unexpected turn tensions escalate and loyalties are tested, Juice delivers a disturbing yet enthralling portrayal of inner-city life.

Menace II Society (1993)

In their feature debut, the Hughes brothers direct Menace II Society, an epic portrayal of gangland life. The film centers on a young street hustler striving to break free from the challenges and allure of the ghetto in search of a brighter future. Supported by his compassionate teacher (Charles Dutton) and loyal girlfriend (Jada Pinkett), Caine dreams of leaving the city behind for good. However, as a series of tragic events unfold, Caine discovers that escaping his circumstances will be far from simple.

 

’90s Black Romantic Comedy Movies

Boomerang (1992)

Eddie Murphy stars in this romantic comedy.  The film tells the story of Marcus Graham, a successful advertising executive and incorrigible womanizer. Graham gets a taste of his own medicine when he falls for his new boss, Jacqueline (Robin Givens). With a star-studded cast including Halle Berry, Martin Lawrence, and Grace Jones, Boomerang delivers on laughs.

The Best Man (1999)

Taye Diggs leads an ensemble cast in this romantic dramedy about a group of college friends who reunite for a wedding, only to find old flames rekindling and secrets threatening to unravel. With themes of friendship, love, and loyalty, The Best Man is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of relationships.

The Wood (1999)

This nostalgic coming-of-age tale follows three friends as they reminisce about their teenage years in Inglewood, California. Preparing for one of their weddings, with a blend of humour, heart, and genuine camaraderie, The Wood captures the essence of friendship and the bittersweet passage of time.

Love Jones (1997)

Larenz Tate and Nia Long star in this cult classic romantic drama about two lovebirds – a poet and a photographer who fall in love in Chicago. Set against the backdrop of the city’s vibrant arts scene, Love Jones explores themes of passion, creativity, and modern romance.

 

Jason’s Lyric (1994)

Jason, an assistant manager and sales clerk at an electronics store, discovers love in the arms of Lyric (Jada Pinkett Smith), bringing him newfound happiness. However, his aspirations for a better life are overshadowed by his family’s troubled history. “Jason’s Lyric” is memorable for telling a love story that radiates with genuine warmth and romantic passion.

 

’90s Classic Horror Movie

Candyman (1992)

 

Listen. I’m not into horror movies at all.  However — my husband insisted that I add this film to the list! With my kids firmly in their teenage years, they are ready for a classic horror film. Enter the 1992 movie Candyman. This story of a knife-wielding psychopath, played by Tony Todd, is just the urban legend they are ready to watch. And they totally can… with their father…

Iconic 90s Black movies my kids have got to watch

While I know I’m doing some things right, my daughter’s questions about Queen Angela had me in a tailspin. But it led me to walk down memory lane and revive my love of some true movie classics.

While we said goodbye to the era of VHS tapes and Blockbuster nights, the spirit of ’90s Black cinema lives on. Here’s to the movies that brought laughter, tears, and dance moves to our lives.  May they continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.  Whether you’re snuggled up for a family movie night or embarking on a solo marathon these 90s classic Black movies should not be overlooked.

There’s something truly special about the magic of a ’90s Black film.