Best African-American Community TV Shows To Watch

Deuces is a riveting crime drama that dives deep into the heart of a gritty urban environment, making it a must-watch for fans of intense and complex narratives. Created by Jeronimo Bertran and directed by Jamal Hill, the show stands out for its authentic portrayal of a crime-ridden neighborhood in Philadelphia, captured through meticulous set design and cinematography. The stellar cast, including Larenz Tate as the charismatic gang leader Jason Holland and Lance Gross as the relentless Detective Davis, brings life to multi-dimensional characters ensnared in a world of drug trafficking, money laundering, and street violence. With its gripping storyline, realistic dialogue, and powerful performances, Deuces draws favorable comparisons to iconic series like The Wire and The Sopranos. The series' soundtrack, featuring artists like Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé, further immerses viewers in the emotional and intense atmosphere of the urban landscape. If you're looking for a show that challenges perceptions while offering high-stakes drama and unforgettable quotes, Deuces is a series that deserves your attention.

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Sweet Life: Los Angeles is a must-watch reality TV series that offers an honest and compelling glimpse into the lives of young, ambitious black individuals navigating their mid-20s in south Los Angeles. Executive produced by LeBron James, this HBO Max original captivates viewers with relatable experiences, from career struggles to personal triumphs. The ensemble cast, including a lawyer, a budding musician, and a marketing specialist, brings authenticity and depth, portraying the real-life pursuit of the American Dream. The series stands out with its unique perspective, heartfelt quotes, and a fitting soundtrack that enhances the emotional journey. Dive into Sweet Life: Los Angeles to witness the inspiring, unfiltered stories of resilience, ambition, and community in the city of dreams.

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South Side, an American comedy series that first aired on Comedy Central in July 2019, immerses viewers in the vibrant, challenging life of Chicagos Englewood neighborhood. Following the comedic and heartfelt journeys of best friends Simon James and Kareme Young, this show offers a refreshing escape from stereotypes, showcasing their struggle and ambition as they navigate their post-graduation world while working at Rent-T-Own. Created by Diallo Riddle, Bashir Salahuddin, and Sultan Salahuddin, the series is celebrated for its authentic representation, having been filmed on location in Chicago. The humor is elevated by stellar performances from Sultan Salahuddin, Kareme Young, and Chandra Russell, who breathe life into their characters with charismatic ease. The series sharp writing, diverse soundtrack, and compelling quotes make it a must-watch for anyone seeking a genuine, humorous, and inspiring depiction of inner-city life and entrepreneurial spirit.

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Southern Rites is a compelling 2015 HBO documentary directed by Gillian Laub that delves into the deep-seated racial tensions and segregation in Montgomery County, Georgia. By documenting the countys first-ever integrated senior prom, the aftermath of a local school shooting, and a subsequent murder trial, the film offers a raw and timely exploration of race relations in the United States. Laubs initial project for the New York Times Magazine grew into a decade-long endeavor, making her an active participant in the push for change. The score by T. Griffin wonderfully fuses traditional southern music with modern elements, enhancing the films emotional depth. Featuring impactful voices like school principal Osha Gray Davidson and local resident Norma Jean Brown, the documentary underscores the courage needed for social change. Southern Rites is a poignant reminder of ongoing struggles against segregation and racism, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding Americas racial divide.

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The Chi is a drama series by Showtime that offers a raw and authentic look into life on Chicagos South Side. Created by Lena Waithe, the show masterfully intertwines the lives of working-class African-Americans navigating love, loss, and triumph in their community. With contributions from Grammy, Oscar, and Emmy winner Common, the series captures an authenticity rarely seen on television. Featuring talented actors like Jacob Latimore, Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, and Alex Hibbert, the characters draw you into their struggles and victories in a compelling narrative. The series has received critical acclaim and even a Best Drama Series nomination at the NAACP Image Awards. The soundtrack, rich with local Chicago artists, enhances the gripping storyline and imbues each scene with emotional depth. Watch The Chi not only for its stellar performances and storytelling but also for its representation and exploration of significant societal themes while maintaining a sense of community and hope.

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Why You Should Watch Atlantas Missing And Murdered: The Lost Children Atlanta's Missing And Murdered: The Lost Children is not just a documentary series, but an unflinching exploration of a harrowing chapter in American history. Released in 2020 by HBO, it examines the grim period from 1979-1981 when at least 30 African-American children and young adults vanished or were brutally murdered in Atlanta. Directed by Sam Pollard, Maro Chermayeff, Jeff Dupre, and Joshua Bennett, the series meticulously reconstructs these events, uncovering stark new evidence and giving a voice to previously unheard perspectives. The series critically questions the conviction of Wayne Williams, the main suspect, and hints at a possible cover-up by authorities, sparking renewed interest and debate. Emotional interviews with family members, like Catherine Leach, mother of one of the victims, lend a poignant, human aspect to the narrative. Coupled with a haunting score by Son Lux, this documentary is compelling for its depth and commitment to uncovering the truth, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime, social justice, and investigative storytelling.

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Why You Should Watch Strong Island Strong Island is a compelling and emotionally charged documentary that delves deep into the systemic racial injustices in America's legal system. Directed by Yance Ford, this 2017 crime documentary centers on the tragic murder of Ford's brother, William Ford Jr., and the subsequent failure of the justice system to hold his white killer accountable. What sets Strong Island apart is its deeply personal narrative, told through intimate interviews and archival footage. Yance Ford's raw and heartfelt exploration of his family's history and the profound impact of William's death is both moving and thought-provoking. This film challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about race and justice in America, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the societal issues that continue to plague marginalized communities. The powerful storytelling, combined with a haunting soundtrack by H. Scott Salinas, creates an unforgettable viewing experience. Strong Island was not only nominated for the Best Documentary Feature at the 90th Academy Awards but also made history as the first openly transgender film to receive such a nomination. It stands as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for justice and equality, making it a crucial documentary for our times.

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United Skates, a 2019 HBO documentary by Tina Brown and Dyana Winkler, offers an enlightening dive into the vibrant but endangered roller-skating subculture within the African-American community. Far from mere entertainment, this film highlights roller skating as a powerful form of expression and a historical sanctuary amidst racial inequality and gentrification challenges. Through heartfelt stories from passionate individuals like Reggie Brown and single mother Phelicia Wright, the documentary portrays the emotional and communal importance of skating rinks. Shot over several years and featuring an electrifying soundtrack blending R&B and hip-hop, United Skates captures the resilient spirit of this community. Executive produced by John Legend and others, the film has earned accolades like the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival. Watch United Skates to understand a rich cultural legacy thats both entertaining and deeply moving, uncovering essential societal issues along the way.

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The Get Down is a must-watch musical drama series on Netflix that takes viewers on a vibrant journey through the South Bronx of the late 1970s, the birthplace of hip-hop. Created by Baz Luhrmann and Stephen Adly Guirgis, it weaves a compelling story of a group of teenagers navigating the challenges of their environment while pursuing their musical dreams. The show brilliantly blends fictional characters with historical hip-hop figures, exploring themes of creativity, friendship, love, and musics transformative power. With elaborate sets, choreographed sequences, and an authentic soundtrack mixing original music and iconic 70s hip-hop tracks, the series immerses viewers in a dynamic era. The talented cast, including Justice Smith and Shameik Moore, delivers powerful performances that bring the characters and their poignant journeys to life. Despite production challenges, The Get Down stands out for its rich portrayal of an influential period. Don’t miss this energetic dive into the roots of hip-hop and its cultural impact.

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