The Very Best Black Directors, Ranked
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Exceptional black film directors shattered barriers. In doing so, they redefined the landscape of film-making with their innovative storytelling techniques and visually stunning works. It's no surprise that they have become recognized as some of the best directors in Hollywood history.Â
The collection of remarkable black filmmakers provides fascinating insight into their lives and accomplishments. Each filmmaker has developed their own approach to capturing captivating narratives. Their work encompasses various genres, from drama and comedy to action and horror.
For instance, Spike Lee is an influential figure whose decades-long career has been marked by numerous acclaimed productions such as Do the Right Thing and Malcolm X. His thought-provoking films tackle social issues while also leaving a lasting impact on viewers' perspectives. Another game-changing talent is Jordan Peele, who made waves in Hollywood with his innovative directorial debut Get Out, a film that combined elements of horror and satire. Ryan Coogler gained widespread recognition for his groundbreaking work in Black Panther, a superhero movie that broke records at the box office and won critical acclaim for its cultural significance. These trailblazers are just a few of the countless extraordinary black film directors who have left indelible marks on the cinematic landscape.Â
The best black directors are famed for bringing fresh perspectives to cinema while simultaneously celebrating diversity behind and in front of the camera. As they continue forging paths in this industry, their collective body of work serves as an inspiration for generations to come.Â
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Most divisive: Morgan Freeman
Over 600 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Black Movie Directors
1Spike Lee, born Shelton Jackson Lee in 1957, is a world-renowned filmmaker and producer who has left an indelible mark on cinema. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, he moved to Brooklyn, New York with his family at a young age. His love for the arts was evident from an early age, as he shot his first film on a Super 8 camera at the tender age of 20. He later attended Morehouse College and New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, where he honed his skills and developed an innovative approach to storytelling that would later become his signature style. Lee's debut feature film, She's Gotta Have It, released in 1986, quickly established him as a formidable presence in Hollywood. The film's success paved the way for other critically acclaimed works such as Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X, He Got Game, and 25th Hour. Throughout his career, Lee has been recognized for his bold examinations of race, politics, and urban life in America. His films are characterized by their vibrant visuals, inventive narratives, and thought-provoking themes, earning him a reputation as one of the most influential directors of his generation. In addition to his work in film, Lee has also made significant contributions to television and theater. He has directed numerous music videos and commercials, and his Broadway production of Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth was met with widespread acclaim. Lee's numerous accolades include an Academy Award, two Emmy Awards, two Peabody Awards, and an honorary BAFTA Award, among others. Despite the highs and lows of his career, Spike Lee remains a pioneering figure in the entertainment industry, continually pushing boundaries and challenging audiences with his unique and provocative storytelling style.- Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- 2American director Ryan Coogler found success early in his career with short films and his lauded feature-length film debut "Fruitvale Station" (2013) before going on to become one of the most commercially successful black filmmakers in history. Ryan Coogler was born on May 23, 1986 in Oakland, California. His mother was a community organizer, and his father was a probation officer. Coogler was an athletic child, and he attended Saint Mary's College of California on a football scholarship. There, he studied chemistry, though a professor encouraged him to look into screenwriting. Coogler transferred, eventually landing at the USC School Of Cinematic Arts. There, he began directing award-winning short films, which centered on true-to-life and often harrowing tales. Starting at age 21, Coogler worked with at-risk youth, following in his father's footsteps by working in the prison system. His next cinematic venture was "Fruitvale," a feature-length film about the last 24 hours of Oscar Grant's life before he was shot by policemen in Coogler's hometown of Oakland in a manslaughter case that had gone mostly overlooked by the public. The film, renamed "Fruitvale Station," starred Michael B. Jordan, Melonie Diaz, and Octavia Spencer, and Forest Whitaker was one of the producers. After winning much praise and many awards at Sundance and Cannes, it was released by The Weinstein Company to popular and critical success. In 2014, Coogler signed on to direct "Creed," a "Rocky" spin-off also starring Michael B. Jordan. Its critical and commercial success led to the biggest film of Coogler's career so far, "Black Panther" (2018). The first film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe to focus on a black lead character with a majority-black cast, the film was not only a massive commercial success, it was hailed as a major move forward for African-American filmmakers in general.
- Birthplace: Oakland, California, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
3John Daniel Singleton (January 6, 1968 – April 28, 2019) was an American film director, screenwriter, producer, and actor. He was best known for directing Boyz n the Hood (1991), for which he was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director, becoming, at age 24, the first African American and youngest person to have ever been nominated for that award. Singleton was a native of South Los Angeles, and many of his films, such as Poetic Justice (1993), Higher Learning (1995), and Baby Boy (2001), had themes which resonated with the contemporary urban population. He also directed the drama Rosewood (1997) and the action films Shaft (2000), 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003), and Four Brothers (2005). He co-created the television crime drama Snowfall. He was nominated the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie, or Dramatic Special for "The Race Card", the fifth episode of The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story.- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
- Nationality: United States of America
4A widely praised conceptual artist-turned-filmmaker who had been called "a born provocateur" and "a reluctant subversive," Steve McQueen's features were captivating in their simplicity and minimalism. A devotee of the nouvelle vague style of the 1960s French New Wave, McQueen started his film career off with a series of experimental shorts exhibited in an unusual fashion, including screening without sound and/or on multiple art gallery walls rather than a conventional screen. Known for his meticulous sense of detail and guarded personality, McQueen maintained that his work was apolitical, though this was disputed, given its implied criticism of how the British government treated Irish Republican Army prisoners and displayed reluctance to suitably honor military personnel killed during the Iraq war. One of the few artists to garner instant acclaim upon transitioning to feature films, McQueen's "Hunger" (2008) and "Shame" (2011) - both starring Michael Fassbender - were heralded for their quiet, refined power and McQueen was cited as one of Britain's most promising and creative directors. This early promise was met in "12 Years a Slave" (2013), a harrowing period drama that won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for McQueen.- Birthplace: London, England, UK
- Nationality: United Kingdom
5Actor-writer Jordan Peele gleefully skewered issues of race and popular culture as a solo performer and in tandem with his frequent partner Keegan-Michael Key on "MADtv" (Fox 1995-2009) and "Key & Peele" (Comedy Central 2012-15). A veteran of the Second City improvisational group, Peele broke into television with "MADtv," which earned him widespread praise for celebrity impersonations and unhinged recurring characters. After netting a 2008 Emmy nomination for writing the comic music video "Sad Fitty Cent," Peele left "MAD" to work on other series before reteaming with Key for their own show. "Key & Peele" was both a critical and audience favorite thanks to the stars' take on racially tinged subjects, including a supremely formal President Barack Obama (played by Peele). The popularity of the series led to additional high-profile opportunities for the stars and underscored both Key and Peele's ascent to the higher echelons of the comedy business. That success led to the duo's first big-screen effort, the action comedy "Keanu" (2016), in which the pair took on a violent street gang over a stolen kitten. In a somewhat unexpected shift of direction, Peele's first high-profile solo gig was the horror film "Get Out" (2017), which he wrote and directed; a racially-charged satirical film in the tradition of "Rosemary's Baby" (1968) and "The Stepford Wives" (1975), "Get Out" was a major critical and commercial success that poised Peele for a career apart from his longtime friend and partner.- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- 1The Lost Boys521 Votes
- 2Invasion of the Body Snatchers234 Votes
- 3The Goonies240 Votes
- 4Friday the 13th Part 2135 Votes
6Antoine Fuqua (born January 19, 1966 or May 30, 1966) (sources differ) is an American film director and producer. Initially active as a music video director, he has worked primarily in the action and thriller film subgenres, and is best known for his Academy Award-winning film Training Day (2001). Fuqua began his career directing music videos for popular artists such as Toni Braxton, Coolio, Stevie Wonder and Prince. From 1998 onwards, he began directing feature films. Fuqua has expressed his early respect for Akira Kurosawa as a filmmaker and written about how Kurosawa influenced his own perspective on filmmaking.- Birthplace: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
7A gifted, socially conscious writer, director and producer, Ava DuVernay went from in-demand publicist to helming her own projects when she saw a gap in the marketplace for non-stereotypical African-American independent films. After experiencing success with the award-winning documentaries "This is the Life" (2008) and "My Mic Sounds Nice: The Truth About Women in Hip-Hop" (BET, 2010), DuVernay turned her focus to narratives features with the acclaimed tale of moving on from grief, "I Will Follow" (2011), the first release from her industry-changing collective, the African-American Film Festival Releasing Movement (AFFRM). DuVernay impressed critics even further with her follow-up, "Middle of Nowhere" (2012), the story of a woman (Emayatzy Corinealdi) who makes enormous personal sacrifices to support her incarcerated husband (Omari Hardwick) but eventually reaches a personal crossroads. Her film dramatizing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s 1965 civil rights march, "Selma" (2014), was even more acclaimed. Earning massive acclaim across the board, DuVernay made history as the first African-American winner of Best Director from the Sundance Film Festival. Blessed with a huge talent to match her social conscience, Ava DuVernay excited critics and fans who were proud to join her in championing challenging African-American independent films of depth and substance. DuVernay also broke ground on television with a collaboration with longtime friend and mentor Oprah Winfrey, "Queen Sugar" (OWN 2016- ) and was tapped to direct the film version of the classic children's fantasy "A Wrinkle In Time," making her the first African-American woman to helm a feature with a budget over one hundred million dollars.- Birthplace: Long Beach, California, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
8Denzel Washington, a name synonymous with dynamic performances and compelling storytelling, is widely recognized as one of the most prolific actors in Hollywood. Born on December 28th, 1954 in Mount Vernon, New York, the son of a Pentecostal minister and a beauty shop owner, his early life was marked by discipline and structure which later influenced his approach to acting. After graduating from Fordham University, he advanced his craft at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco before making his professional acting debut. Washington's career has been consistently marked by accolades and critical acclaim. His first significant success came with his role in the television series St. Elsewhere, where he played Dr. Philip Chandler for six years, setting the stage for his transition into film. His prowess in front of the camera was acknowledged when he won his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1989 for his role in Glory. This was followed by another Oscar win in 2001 for Best Actor in Training Day, solidifying his position as a versatile actor capable of delivering powerful performances in diverse roles. In addition to his acting career, Washington has also made notable contributions behind the scenes. He took on the role of director for the critically acclaimed films Antwone Fisher and The Great Debaters. His philanthropic efforts are equally remarkable, including substantial donations to educational institutions and advocacy for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Denzel Washington's legacy is one of immense talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his craft. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and filmmakers worldwide, proving that with passion and perseverance, one can carve their own path in the world of cinema.- Birthplace: Mount Vernon, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- 1Training Day1,811 Votes
- 2American Gangster1,369 Votes
- 3Man on Fire1,872 Votes
- 4Remember the Titans1,371 Votes
9Barry Jenkins
Medicine for Melancholy, A Woman's Tale, AlmostBarry Jenkins is a film director, film producer, screenwriter and an actor.
10Having established himself as a talented music video director, F. Gary Gray was bound to make a successful transition to feature films. Gray made good on his creative promise when he directed the hit comedy "Friday" (1995), which earned ten times its small budget at the box office and generated two popular sequels. He continued to showcase his gifts with his sophomore effort, "Set It Off" (1996), which was a big earner at the box office. Gray made his first foray into big-budget Hollywood filmmaking with the critically acclaimed thriller, "The Negotiator" (1998). Following a failed attempt at launching a regular television series, he found his biggest success to date with "The Italian Job" (2003), a gripping remake of the 1969 action comedy-drama. After establishing himself as a skilled director of action-adventure films, Gray returned to his hip-hop roots with the hit N.W.A. biopic "Straight Outta Compton" (2015).- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
11Gordon Roger Alexander Buchanan Parks (November 30, 1912 – March 7, 2006) was an American photographer, musician, writer and film director, who became prominent in U.S. documentary photojournalism in the 1940s through 1970s—particularly in issues of civil rights, poverty and African-Americans—and in glamour photography.As the first famous pioneer among black filmmakers, he was the first African American to produce and direct major motion pictures—developing films relating the experience of slaves and struggling black Americans, and creating the "blaxploitation" genre. He is best remembered for his iconic photos of poor Americans during the 1940s (taken for a federal government project), for his photographic essays for Life magazine, and as the director of the 1971 film Shaft. Parks also was an author, poet and composer.- Birthplace: USA, Kansas, Fort Scott
- Nationality: United States of America
12Born in Texas in 1961, Forest Whitaker grew up in California, where he discovered his passion for performing arts. Whitaker's formal education in drama at the University of Southern California set the stage for his illustrious career in the entertainment industry. Whitaker's acting prowess first caught the world's attention in 1982 when he starred in Fast Times at Ridgemont High. His breakthrough role in The Color of Money (1986) paved the way for his critically acclaimed performance in Bird (1988), for which he won the Best Actor award at Cannes Film Festival. However, it was his portrayal of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland (2006) that catapulted him to the pinnacle of global recognition. For this role, he bagged numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actor, becoming the fourth African-American to win this coveted honor. In addition to his acting career, Whitaker has made significant contributions as a director and producer. He directed films like Waiting to Exhale (1995) and Hope Floats (1998), showcasing his ability to weave compelling narratives behind the lens. As a producer, he has lent his expertise to projects like Fruitvale Station (2013) and Dope (2015). Beyond his work in film, Whitaker is known for his humanitarian efforts, particularly his advocacy for peace and reconciliation in areas of conflict. He established the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative, which operates in several countries, underlining his commitment to social change.- Birthplace: Longview, Texas, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
13Sidney Poitier, born on February 20, 1927, in Miami, Florida, is a monumental figure in the Hollywood film industry. The son of Bahamian farmers, Poitier grew up in poverty but carved a path for himself in the world of acting against all odds. His journey from the tomato farms of The Bahamas to the glitzy streets of Hollywood is awe-inspiring and solidifies his status as a beacon of determination and resilience. Poitier's acting career began on the stage in New York before he transitioned to films in the early 1950s. With memorable roles in films like No Way Out (1950), Cry, the Beloved Country (1951), and Blackboard Jungle (1955), Poitier quickly established himself as a talented actor. Still, it was his performance in Lilies of the Field (1963) that etched his name in history. Winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for this role, Poitier became the first Black man to receive this prestigious honor, breaking racial barriers in the predominantly white Hollywood industry. Outside of acting, Poitier has demonstrated his skills as a director, helming successful films like Stir Crazy (1980) and Ghost Dad (1990). In 2002, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, recognizing his enduring contribution to cinema. Beyond his professional achievements, Poitier has been an active advocate for civil rights and racial equality, using his influence to push for societal change. In essence, Sidney Poitier is not just an actor or a director; he's a trailblazer whose impact extends far beyond the silver screen.- Birthplace: Miami, Florida, USA
- Nationality: United States of America, Bahamas
- 1Guess Who's Coming to Dinner160 Votes
- 2Lilies of the Field156 Votes
- 3In the Heat of the Night167 Votes
- 4To Sir, with Love169 Votes
14Ousmane Sembène (1 January 1923 or 8 January 1923 – 9 June 2007), often credited in the French style as Sembène Ousmane in articles and reference works, was a Senegalese film director, producer and writer. The Los Angeles Times considered him one of the greatest authors of Africa and he has often been called the "father of African film". Descended from a Serer family through his mother from the line of Matar Sène, Ousmane Sembène was particularly drawn to Serer religious festivals especially the Tuur festival.- Birthplace: Senegal, Ziguinchor Department, Ziguinchor
- Nationality: Senegal
15Robert Townsend is known as a multi-talented figure who graduated from stand-up comedy to film, making his screen acting debut in Paul Mazursky's "Willie and Phil" (1980) and contributing a fine dramatic performance in "A Soldier's Story" (1984).- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
16Albert Hughes is a film writer, director and producer.- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Nationality: United States of America
17Evincing greater affinity for the studied cool of Quentin Tarantino than the overt social messages of fellow African-American filmmakers Spike Lee and John Singleton, The Hughes Brothers transcended the pitfalls of a troubled home life to become major successes with their first film, "Menace II Society" (1993). With Allen concentrating his energies on the actors and brother Albert focused on the technical aspects of filmmaking, the twin brothers made a dynamic pair that held nothing back, particularly when talking to the press. Turning to documentary filmmaking after their sophomore narrative effort, "Dead Presidents" (1995), The Hughes Brothers next directed "American Pimp" (1999). They then stepped outside their comfort zone to travel back to Victorian-era England with "From Hell" (2001), a gory and atmospheric examination of the Jack the Ripper murders. After taking some time off from directing to focus on producing, the brothers stepped back behind the cameras after nearly a decade to helm the post-apocalyptic Western "The Book of Eli" (2010), confirming that the talent evidenced in their exemplary debut was still alive and strong.- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
18Melvin Van Peebles (born Melvin Peebles; August 21, 1932 – September 21, 2021) was an American actor, filmmaker, playwright, novelist, and composer. He worked as an active filmmaker into the 2000s. His feature film debut, The Story of a Three-Day Pass (1967), was based on his own French-language novel La Permission and was shot in France, as it was difficult for a black American director to get work at the time. The film won an award at the San Francisco International Film Festival which gained him the interest of Hollywood studios, leading to his American feature debut Watermelon Man, in 1970. Eschewing further overtures from Hollywood, he used the successes he had so far to bankroll his work as an independent filmmaker. In 1971, he released his best-known work, creating and starring in the film Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song, considered one of the earliest and best-regarded examples of the blaxploitation genre.- Birthplace: USA, Chicago, Illinois
- Nationality: United States of America
19Malcolm D. Lee is an American director, writer, producer, and actor who is best known for directing "Girls Trip" and "The Best Man." Lee was nominated for a NAACP Image Awards in 2018 for the first project.- Birthplace: Manhattan, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
20An attractive African-American player of stage, screen and TV who often projects an appealing vulnerability and intelligence, Kasi Lemmons began her professional career playing a hostage in the TV-movie "11th Victim" (1979), directed by Jonathan Kaplan. She then took several years off to study with The Lee Strasberg Institute, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Centre, NYU, UCLA and famed mime Marcel Marceau. She returned to acting with a supporting role in Lanford Wilson's "Balm in Gilead" (1984) Off-Broadway, and a guest spot on the detective series "Spenser: For Hire" (1985). After attending film school at the New School for Social Research in NYC, Lemmons made her entrance into features by writing, directing, shooting and editing the documentary short "Fall From Grace" (1987). The next year, she appeared in two drastically different films: "School Daze," Spike Lee's musical study of black-on-black prejudices; and "Vampire's Kiss," a dark comedy starring Nicolas Cage as a man who may be a vampire.- Birthplace: St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
21Gifted African American cinematographer who established himself on financially modest but artistically ambitious independent features before shifting to major motion pictures as a d.p. and genre films as a director. Dickerson became known as the ace director of photography for fellow NYU alumnus Spike Lee. His vibrant painterly camerawork enhanced Lee's student film "Joe's Bed-Stuy Barbershop: We Cut Heads" (1980) and his subsequent first six features. His first feature credit was John Sayles' "The Brother From Another Planet" (1984), an engaging social parable about a mute alien stranded in Harlem, which benefited greatly from Dickerson's soulful portraits of the faces and places of Black folks. He has achieved great success in conveying the full spectrum of African American coloring by utilizing various tinted lights and colored backdrops. Dickerson has also shot films by Michael Schultz ("Krush Groove" 1985), Robert Townsend ("Eddie Murphy Raw" 1987) and John McNaughton ("Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll" 1991).- Birthplace: Newark, New Jersey, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
22Born on November 29, 1964, in Kansas City, Missouri, Don Cheadle's journey to stardom was marked by hard work and unwavering dedication. He developed an interest in acting during his high school years and pursued it further at the California Institute of the Arts, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts. Cheadle's breakthrough came in 1995 when he delivered a standout performance in the critically acclaimed film, Devil in a Blue Dress, earning him an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male. Since then, his career has been a series of remarkable roles that have demonstrated his range and depth as an actor. His portrayal of Paul Rusesabagina in Hotel Rwanda (2004) garnered him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He also gained widespread recognition for his role as Marty Kaan in the Showtime series House of Lies, which won him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series Musical or Comedy. In addition to his acting prowess, Cheadle has also made his mark behind the camera. He made his directorial debut with Miles Ahead (2015), a biographical film about jazz musician Miles Davis, in which he also starred. His commitment to social issues has been equally noteworthy. An active campaigner against genocide in Darfur, Cheadle co-authored Not On Our Watch: The Mission to End Genocide in Darfur and Beyond with John Prendergast.- Birthplace: Kansas City, Missouri, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
23An intelligent comedian-actor-writer-director, Richard Ayoade had his start in theater and comedy before breaking through for his horror/comedy hybrid "Garth Marenghi's Darkplace" (Channel 4, 2004). Scoring on the sketch comedy "The Mighty Boosh" (BBC Three, 2004-05) as the belligerent Saboo, Ayoade boosted his profile considerably with his charming turn as alpha geek Maurice Moss, flummoxed by the corporate culture that surrounded him and his fellow members of "The IT Crowd" (Channel 4, 2006-10). His success on the show opened American doors, including landing a role on the never-aired American remake, and he was tapped to star alongside Vince Vaughn, Ben Stiller and Jonah Hill in the sci-fi comedy "The Watch" (2012). He also directed multiple music videos, especially for close pals the Arctic Monkeys, and wrote and directed the acclaimed indie hit "Submarine" (2010), which earned him a BAFTA nomination. A multifaceted talent with wide-ranging creative gifts, Richard Ayoade seemed poised to conquer America as charmingly as he had his native United Kingdom.- Birthplace: Whipp's Cross, London, England, UK
- Nationality: British
- 24Harold "Hype" Williams (born July 1970) is an American music video director, film director, film producer, and screenwriter.
- Birthplace: New York City, USA, New York
- Nationality: United States of America
25Dee Rees is a film director and a screenwriter.- Nationality: United States of America
26Morgan Freeman, an acclaimed figure in the world of cinema, is renowned for his distinctive deep voice and unparalleled acting prowess. Born on June 1, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, Freeman embarked on his acting journey at a young age by participating in school plays. His passion for performing arts led him to further refine his skills at Los Angeles City College where he studied theatre arts. In the early phase of his career, Freeman appeared in various television shows and stage productions. However, it was not until the 1980s that he gained significant recognition by playing pivotal roles in films like Street Smart (1987), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Over time, Freeman's talent brought him universal acclaim with movies like Driving Miss Daisy (1989) and The Shawshank Redemption (1994). His performance as a wise prison inmate in the latter film solidified his position as one of Hollywood's most respected actors. Freeman's dedication to cinema has been widely recognized with numerous awards including the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Million Dollar Baby (2004). Despite reaching heights of fame and critical success rarely achieved by other artists of his generation or any other era - Morgan still pursued new challenges; lending his unique voice to narrate several documentaries and even directing films himself. A true testament to longevity and versatility within the art form - Morgan Freeman continues leaving indelible marks on audiences worldwide through each character he brings to life.- Birthplace: Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- 1The Shawshank Redemption1,732 Votes
- 2Seven1,161 Votes
- 3The Dark Knight1,020 Votes
- 4Driving Miss Daisy825 Votes
27Julie Ethel Dash (born October 22, 1952) is an American film director, writer and producer. Dash received her MFA in 1985 at the UCLA Film School and is one of the graduates and filmmakers born out of a time known as the L.A. Rebellion. After she had written and directed several shorts, her 1991 feature Daughters of the Dust became the first full-length film directed by an African-American woman to obtain general theatrical release in the United States.Daughters of the Dust is a fictionalized telling of her father's Gullah family who lived off the coast of the Southeastern United States. The film features black women's stories, striking visuals shot on location and a non-linear narrative. It's included in the National Film Registry of the Library of Congress for its cultural, historical and aesthetic significance." Dash has written two books on Daughters of the Dust—a "making of" history co-written with Toni Cade Bambara and bell hooks, and a sequel, set 20 years after the film's story. "Daughters of the Dust" was named one of the most significant films of the last 30 years, by IndieWire.Dash has worked in television since the late 1990s. Her television movies include Funny Valentines (1999), Incognito (1999), Love Song (2000), and The Rosa Parks Story (2002), starring Angela Bassett. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center commissioned Dash to direct Brothers of the Borderland in 2004, as an immersive film exhibit narrated by Oprah Winfrey following the path of women gaining freedom on the Underground Railroad. In 2017, Dash directed episodes of Queen Sugar on the Oprah Winfrey Network. At the 2019 Sundance Film Festival, it was announced Dash's next project will be a biopic of civil rights icon Angela Davis, to be produced by Lionsgate.- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
28Highly acclaimed, award-winning African-American independent filmmaker whose "Killer of Sheep" (made in 1973, first shown 1977) about the emotional and behavioral effects of his job on a Los Angeles slaughter-house worker, won multiple awards and, although it never received commercial release, was added to the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.- Birthplace: Vicksburg, Mississippi, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- 29Will Smith, a name synonymous with Hollywood stardom, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Smith embarked on his journey to fame as a rapper under the moniker The Fresh Prince. His success in music paved the way for his acting career which began with him starring in the sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. This six-year-long TV show was instrumental in establishing Smith as a household name across America. Smith transitioned smoothly from television to films and built an illustrious career that spans decades. He is widely recognized for his roles in blockbuster hits like Men In Black, Independence Day and Bad Boys. His portrayal of Muhammad Ali in Ali earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor while he also received critical acclaim for his role in The Pursuit of Happyness. Not limiting himself to acting alone, Smith also produced numerous films through Overbrook Entertainment, a film production company he co-founded. Despite having such extensive experience within the entertainment industry, Will Smith's influence extends beyond it. He is known for philanthropic efforts which include contributions towards education causes and disaster relief funds. Additionally, he played key roles behind-the-scenes advocating diversity within Hollywood. An inspiring figure worldwide due to both professional achievements and personal resilience shown during tough times; Will Smith truly epitomizes versatility by excelling as an actor, producer, rapper and humanitarian.
- Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- 1Men in Black2,129 Votes
- 2Independence Day1,886 Votes
- 3Bad Boys1,496 Votes
- 4I Am Legend1,958 Votes
30Tyler Perry, a titan in the entertainment industry, boasts an impressive resume as an actor, playwright, filmmaker, and comedian. Born Emmitt Perry Jr., on September 13, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana, he triumphed over a challenging upbringing marked by poverty and abuse to become one of the most influential figures in Hollywood. Facing adversity head-on, Perry dropped out of high school but later earned his General Equivalency Diploma (GED), a testament to his tenacity and determination. Perry's foray into the world of theater began in 1992 when he wrote, produced, and starred in his first play, I Know I've Been Changed, which addressed themes of child abuse, self-worth, and forgiveness. Despite initial setbacks, the play eventually found success and paved the way for a series of popular plays, including the Madea series, featuring Perry's most famous character, Mabel "Madea" Simmons, a tough-talking elderly woman. Perry's unique blend of humor and poignant social commentary resonated with audiences, catapulting him to nationwide fame. Transitioning from stage to screen, Perry established Tyler Perry Studios in 2006, becoming the first African-American to own a major film production studio. His films, often based on his stage plays, have consistently performed well at the box office. Perry's influence extends beyond film and theater, with ventures into television production and book publishing. Despite his commercial success, Perry remains committed to philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes and using his platform to effect positive change. His journey from hardship to Hollywood stardom serves as an inspiring example of resilience and perseverance.- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- 1Diary of a Mad Black Woman305 Votes
- 2The Family That Preys224 Votes
- 3Why Did I Get Married?251 Votes
- 4I Can Do Bad All by Myself206 Votes
31Those who watched far too much bad TV in the 1970s and 80s may remember Carl Franklin as a rugged African-American character player. Those who value thoughtful and solidly crafted genre films may give more weight to his second career as a filmmaker in the 1990s. Franklin first acted as student at UC-Berkely and honed his skills off-Broadway at the Public Theater before becoming a familiar face on TV. He made one film appearance in the family comedy "Five on the Black Hand Side" (1973) before landing steady work on the small screen with numerous guest shots, roles in TV movies, miniseries and busted pilots and stints as a regular on several unsuccessful series including the cop shows "Caribe" (ABC, 1975), co-starring Stacy Keach and "McClain's Law" (NBC, 1981-82), with James Arness as well as the sci-fi adventure "The Fantastic Journey" (NBC, 1977).- Birthplace: Richmond, California, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
32Tall, dignified veteran character player of the American stage and screen with a career spanning nearly half a century. With his wife and frequent collaborator, actor Ruby Dee, Davis was a staple of black theater. Both are longstanding political activists who were highly visible during the height of the civil rights movement and continue to speak out at rallies for progressive and humanitarian causes. Davis delivered the moving eulogy at the funeral of slain civil rights leader Malcolm X (which he repeated for the extended coda to Spike Lee's 1992 biopic). As a playwright, screenwriter, director, producer, and actor, Davis has often been associated with works that celebrate and inculcate the lessons of black history in the US. He thrived as an inspirational and iconic presence in contemporary African-American culture.- Birthplace: Cogdell, Georgia, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
33Oscar Devereaux Micheaux (US: (listen); January 2, 1884 – March 25, 1951) was an African-American author, film director and independent producer of more than 44 films. Although the short-lived Lincoln Motion Picture Company was the first movie company owned and controlled by black filmmakers, Micheaux is regarded as the first major African-American feature filmmaker, a prominent producer of race film, and has been described as "the most successful African-American filmmaker of the first half of the 20th century". He produced both silent films and sound films when the industry changed to incorporate speaking actors.- Birthplace: Metropolis, Illinois
- Nationality: United States of America
34Djibril Diop Mambéty (January 1945 – July 23, 1998) was a Senegalese film director, actor, orator, composer and poet. Though he made only two feature films and five short films, they received international acclaim for their original and experimental cinematic technique and non-linear, unconventional narrative style. Born to a Muslim family near Dakar, Senegal's capital city, Mambéty was Wolof. He died in 1998 while being treated for lung cancer in a Paris hospital.- Birthplace: Senegal, Gueule Tapée-Fass-Colobane, Dakar Department
- Nationality: Senegal
- 35William Greaves was a director, producer, writer, and actor who was known for directing "Symbiopsychotaxiplasm: Take One" and "Symbiopsychotaxiplasm: Take 2 1/2." Greaves won a National Society of Film Critics Award in 2006 for the first project.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
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Anike Bay
Girls Like Us, Girls Like Us 2.0! The Hustle! The Game, Girls Like Us Menage "A" Trios(Preproduction)- Birthplace: Chicago
- Nationality: African American,Irish,and Cherokee Indian Blackfoot
37John Akomfrah
The Nine Muses, Testament, The Last Angel of HistoryJohn Akomfrah, CBE (born 4 May 1957) is a British artist, writer, film director, screenwriter, theorist and curator of Ghanaian descent, whose "commitment to a radicalism both of politics and of cinematic form finds expression in all his films".A founder of the Black Audio Film Collective in 1982, he made his début as a director with Handsworth Songs, which examined the fallout from the 1985 Handsworth riots. Handsworth Songs went on to win the Grierson Award for Best Documentary in 1987.In the words of The Guardian, he "has secured a reputation as one of the UK’s most pioneering film-makers [whose] poetic works have grappled with race, identity and post-colonial attitudes for over three decades."- Birthplace: Accra, Ghana
- Nationality: United Kingdom, Ghana
- 38Med Hondo (born Mohamed Abid Hondo; 4 May 1936 – 2 March 2019) was a Mauritanian film director, producer, screenwriter, actor and voice actor. He emigrated to France in 1959 and began to work in film during the 1960s. He received critical acclaim for his 1967 directorial début Soleil O.
- Birthplace: Atar, Mauritania
- Nationality: France, Mauritania
