In celebration of Black History Month, our team at BSO is proud to spotlight a curated collection of powerful, thought-provoking, and unforgettable Black films that have inspired us. The BSO Staff “Watch List” reflects stories that honor culture, amplify diverse voices, and celebrate the richness of Black experiences across generations and genres. From groundbreaking classics to modern masterpieces, each selection offers something meaningful to discover. Explore our list and find your next must-watch film — you might just uncover a new favourite along the way.
Black History Month Staff’s Watch List:
40 Acres (2024)
Joan selects 40 Acres, a powerful Canadian drama that reimagines survival, legacy, and land ownership through a Black lens. Set in a near-future where resources are scarce, the film follows a multigenerational family fiercely protecting the farmland they’ve built and preserved. Suspenseful and resonant, 40 Acres explores themes of resilience, inheritance, and self-determination, making it a compelling and timely addition to our Watch List.
Available on CraveTV, Amazon Prime, AppleTV, Google Play and YouTube
Straw (2025)
Stacy selects Straw for our Black History Month watch list. This gripping Netflix drama (directed and produced by Tyler Perry) follows a woman pushed to her breaking point, offering an unflinching look at how pressure, injustice, and survival collide in everyday life. Raw, emotional, intense and heart-wrenching Straw shines a light on resilience in the face of overwhelming odds and the quiet strength it takes to keep going.
Available on: Netflix
Moonlight (2016)
Nesta selects Moonlight for our Black History Month watch list. This intimate film follows Chiron across three stages of his life as he grows up in Miami, searching for identity, connection, and love. Quiet, honest, and deeply human, Moonlight reflects on Black boyhood, masculinity, and tenderness with care and grace.
Available on CBC Gems, Netflix, CRAVE, and Amazon Prime
Black Panther (2018)
Rowan selects Black Panther. Directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Chadwick Boseman, the film showcases the fictional African nation of Wakanda as a symbol of innovation, strength, and pride. Beyond its thrilling action and stunning visuals, Black Panther highlights themes of identity, responsibility, and global unity, while featuring a predominantly Black cast and creative team. Its cultural impact and positive representation make it a meaningful and empowering film to watch during Black History Month.
Available on Disney+
The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat (2024)
Natassia selects The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat. Based on the novel by Edward Kelsey Moore, the film portrays the joys and challenges its three main characters face as they navigate love, loss, and personal growth. With its rich storytelling and focus on community, loyalty, and perseverance, the movie highlights the power of sisterhood and honours the everyday experiences that shape Black history and culture.
Available on Disney+ and AppleTV
