If the news these days has got you feeling a little more doom and gloom and keeps threatening to put a damper on the rest of your summer–don’t worry, we got you. And thankfully, so does Netflix!
Suggested Reading
From comedies to animated films and a bit of everything in between, we and the popular streaming platform know exactly what you need to distract you and help you forget about your problems, if only for some hours. That’s why we rounded up a handful of the best Black TV shows and movies out right now that you can dive into if you seriously need a pick-me-up.
Some of these titles feature projects by heavy hitters like Tyler Perry and Pharrell, stars like Taraji P. Henson, Kiki Layne, Colman Domingo and a myriad of stories that are sure to keep you entertained.
So turn off the news and turn on your queue—because your weekend just got a little bit lighter. Keep reading to get into it!
“Straw”
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Sherri Shepherd, Teyana Taylor
What better way to forget about the crazy day you saw on television than by watching someone go through something way worse?
“Madea’s Destination Wedding”
Starring: Tyler Perry, David Mann, Tamela Mann, Diamond White
Say what you want about Tyler Perry, but whenever Madea’s around, laughs are sure to ensue! And that’s exactly what we all could use a bit more of right now.
“The Old Guard 2”
Starring: KiKi Layne, Charlize Theron, Matthias Schoenaerts
When you can’t kick a crooked politician or nefarious crook’s butt in real life, it almost feels just as good to do it through a movie.
“One of Them Days”
Starring: Keke Palmer, SZA, Joshua O’Neal, Katt Williams
They say misery loves company and this movie definitely will remind you that you’re never alone in your issues!
“Den of Thieves 2: Pantera”
Starring: O’Shea Jackson Jr., Gerard Butler, 50 Cent
The best thing about heist movies? You’re too busy trying to figure out they got away with everything to even think what you have going on!
“Forever”
Starring: Lovie Simone, Michael Cooper Jr., Wood Harris, Karen Pittman
Getting in your feels to relive the energy of teenage love is welcomed change of pace, no? Yes, exactly.
“The Four Seasons”
Starring: Colman Domingo, Tina Fey, Steve Carrell
This series is good largely because Colman Domingo is so charismatic and entertaining! Plus, learning the ins and outs of this complicated friendship group is more fun than moping around about the news, right?
“She The People”
Starring: Terri J. Vaughn, Jade Novah, Jo Marie Payton
Yet another Tyler Perry production, this time centered in the South, will hopefully bring some much needed levity! It’s Terri J. Vaughn, so our hopes are high.
“The Residence”
Starring: Uzo Aduba, Susan Kelechi Watson, Giancarlo Esposito
There’s nothing like a good whodunnit to take all your brain cells and rattle them around for a fun time that comes with a super satisfying ending. (Too bad we won’t get another season. Netflix, please reconsider…this show earned an Emmy nomination for Pete’s sake!)
“Piece by Piece”
Starring: Voices by Pharrell Williams, Pusha T, Snoop Dogg
OK, before you rule this one out, just hear us! Animation aside, this is actually an inspiring story about Pharrell and his musical career that leaves you with more wisdom nuggets than you’d expect. Inspiration and aspiration could be the surprise remedy you need to help you get negativity off your brain!
“Survival of the Thickest”
Starring: Michelle Buteau, Tasha Smith, Tone Bell
If Michelle Buteau is in it, you already know that it’s going to be entertaining. This series feels like seeing your hometown best friends after you’ve been gone for five years. Trust us…this is just what you need.
“Rebel Ridge”
Starring: Aaron Pierre, AnnaSophia Robb, Don Johnson
It’s always a good day when racism loses and Aaron Pierre and his gorgeous green eyes are making sure that happens in this movie. Watching something where we come out on top for one? Yeah, what better distraction is there? That’s an alternate reality we always want to live in.
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