The early 2000s were an interesting time in the movie business, particularly for Black films. We got the usual action blockbusters, big franchises and family fun animation, but there were also a lot of adult comedies and memorable breakout roles. Some of these projects were considered instant classics, while others took some time to find an audience.
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Many of these beloved cult favorites were released in 2004, which means they’re celebrating their 20th anniversary. Take a walk down memory lane as we highlight classic Black movies that are now turning 20.
You Got Served
This film about dance crews battling for supremacy is full of melodrama and tragic plot twists, but what it’s really about is the huge dance battle at the end.
Johnson Family Vacation
The chaotic family road trip became its own genre in the early 2000s. This one is memorable for Cedric the Entertainer’s dual roles, a young Solange Knowles and Jason Momoa making his big screen debut.
White Chicks
While some of the jokes definitely haven’t aged well, it’s still a very funny movie. There’s just something special about the comedic chemistry between Shawn and Marlon Wayans.
Soul Plane
“Soul Plane” is a ridiculous movie that we’re better off forgetting about. We’re sure all the big stars in this film would rather pretend it didn’t happen.
I, Robot
This Will Smith action thriller gets more relevant every day. VIKI, the evil AI in the movie, seems like a short jump away from Siri or Alexa.
Mr. 3000
Bernie Mac in a sports movie is a combination we didn’t know we needed, but it works. And, of course, Angela Bassett makes everything better.
Hotel Rwanda
Don Cheadle is amazing in this film about the Rwandan civil war. If you haven’t seen this, fair warning: it is extremely difficult to watch and not for everyone.
Shrek 2
With “Shrek 5" scheduled for a 2025 release, it seems wild to imagine we’ve been following Shrek, Donkey and Puss In Boots for 20 years.
Man on Fire
One of Denzel Washington’s best action movies features him as a bodyguard who does whatever it takes to protect his young charge. In anyone else’s hands, this would be a routine action story. But with Washington starring, it becomes a deeply moving redemption arc.
Collateral
“Collateral” is another spectacular example of Jamie Foxx’s range. Just when you think you’ve seen everything he can do, he plays against type as the everyman trying to outwit a deadly hitman.
The Cookout
There are definitely jokes in this one that don’t age well, but it’s also an uncomplicated fun movie about the importance of family and our culture. It also features a shockingly star-studded cast that includes Eve, Jenifer Lewis, Franke Faison, Meagan Good, Farrah Fawcett and Danny Glover.
Barbershop 2: Back in Business
Sadly, the movie’s story of gentrification destroying small businesses and family-run operations is still relevant.
Catwoman
“Catwoman” gets a lot more scorn than it deserves. If you look at it as its own thing that’s not connected to any other properties, it’s really just an okay action movie. The story is still ridiculous, but it’s not as bad as some people pretend it is.
Ray
At this point, there’s not much left to say about Jamie Foxx’s Oscar-winning performance in “Ray.” The way he completely becomes Ray Charles requires a special level of talent and skill.
The Incredibles
It’s unfathomable that it’s been 20 years since “The Incredibles” was released, but here we are. Some fans may not think of it as a Black movie, and that’s fair. But if everyone’s favorite scene revolves around Samuel L. Jackson as Frozone, we’re highlighting it.
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