4 Films that Represent Black Love

By: Mystique Myrthil

What does love mean to you? When many of us think of love, we think of romantic comedy and drama films that portray what love is supposed to look and feel like for everyone. The Notebook, for example, is considered the ultimate love story by many—two people from different backgrounds stumble across each other, and the rest is history. After watching it, we daydream of finding a partner who will do anything for us as Noah did for Allie. Unfortunately, not everyone can relate to The Notebook.

If you search romantic films on Google or any streaming service, you’ll find Black leads are underappreciated or not even on the list. It’s time we recognize films and stories that showcase Black love and how Black couples exist. Although Black History month has ended, we must continue to share and amplify Black Culture continuously. I’ve rounded up four of my favorite romantic films that represent Black love and culture. 

If Beale Street Could Talk

Based on the novel written by James Baldwin, If Beale Street Could Talk is a love story about a young Black couple Tish and Fonny, slowly falling in love and fighting against racial injustice in America. They’ve known each other since they were young but didn’t understand their connection until they got older. This film is mixed with sadness and joy, leaving you wishing you had the love these two created with each other.

Love & Basketball

This film will have you thinking about your high school relationships all over again. Monica and Quincy are not afraid to compete for each other’s hearts. Throughout the film, you’ll see their love fade in and out, but basketball wins it all in the end.

Love Jones

When black films were mainly about gangs, poverty, and drugs, Love Jones changed the scene. Writer and Director Ted Witcher showcased a different aspect of Black life, where struggle and pain weren’t the film’s primary focus. Set in Chicago’s spoken word scene, Darius Lovehall, and Nina Mosely is a young Black couple trying out this thing called love. We see how different views of love clash throughout the film, but the two always end up together. 

Queen & Slim

This film showcases an unexpected love blossoming out of an unfortunate situation. Angela and Ernest meet up for a Tinder date, and as they are leaving, they get racially profiled by a police officer who pulls them over. We see their love grow for each other throughout their journey for a search for freedom.

I could share many films that portray Black love and what it shows to be Black and in love. These are films that make me think about being in love and represent Black culture. Watching these films will give you a different perspective on what love means to other people and cultures. Maybe you’ll end up wishing for a love like Darius and Nina’s.