Hidden Gems: The Best Black TV Series, Movies on Netflix

‘Rebel Ridge,’ ‘The Six Triple Eight,’ ‘Shirley’ and ‘Queen Charlotte’ are some of the star-studded movies and TV series you can find on the streaming giant.

Photo: Bob Mahoney/Perry Well Films 2

With more streaming services than ever available, there’s no shortage of movies and TV series to watch whenever you want. The problem is finding them amidst the chaos of a home screen. Netflix in particular has an overwhelming amount of choices on its home page. If you haven’t taken the time to carefully format your algorithm, you’ll have an endless display of movies and series to choose from. To help you get around all the craziness, our hidden gems series narrows down the most interesting picks so you have a place to start. With originals like “The Six Triple Eight,” “Rebel Ridge” and “”They Cloned Tyrone” leading the way, we’ve gathered the Hidden Gems of Netflix.

Video will return here when scrolled back into view
Trump’s Tariffs Might Stick Around. What Should We Buy Now?

‘The Six Triple Eight’

Kerry Washington leads a fantastic ensemble of Black women in Tyler Perry’s film chronicling the Women’s Army Corps heroic mission during WWII.

‘Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story’

“Bridgerton” fans are treated to a beautiful prequel that follows the epic love story between Queen Charlotte and King George. India Amarteifio gives a powerhouse performance as young Queen Charlotte, while Arsema Thomas brings new depth to the character as young Lady Danbury.

‘Supacell’

The British sci-fi drama follows a group of young Black people as they develop superpowers and find themselves caught in a mysterious conspiracy. You know the powers that be don’t want us to have all that power.

‘American Gangster’

We know “American Gangster” is definitely not hidden, but it’s absolutely a gem. There’s always room on the watchlist for this Denzel classic.

‘Leave the World Behind’

If you like an end of the world conspiracy thriller, then this Mahershala Ali, Julia Roberts drama is probably your jam. For your own sanity, don’t read spoilers or fan theories before you watch.

‘Rebel Ridge’

Aaron Pierre takes on a corrupt sheriff in a small town in this fun action movie. We always have time to cheer on a Black vigilante who takes down the crooked system.

‘Shirley’

With Vice President Kamala Harris making a serious run at the White House, now is the perfect time to check out Regina King as Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to mount a major party presidential campaign.

‘Lift’

Kevin Hart leads a star-studded team of thieves as they mount a daring mid-air heist. Save this one for when you just want a fun movie that doesn’t ask too much of you.

‘The Deliverance’

If you’ve been online, you’ve probably heard all about “The Deliverance’s” wild demonic possession. However, if you haven’t and you’re starting to get in the spooky mood, move this to the top of your list.

‘They Cloned Tyrone’

Jamie Foxx, Teyonah Parris and John Boyega are the only ones who can unravel a wild government conspiracy in this sci-fi/comedy.

‘His House’

Grief literally takes on a presence of its own in this horror/thriller. Definitely watch this one with the lights on.

‘The Harder They Fall’

Jeymes Samuel delivered a western that is overflowing with Black Excellence. In addition to the revenge action story, the film stars Idris Elba; LaKeith Stanfield; Regina King; Zazie Beetz; and Deon Cole.

‘White Chicks’

Obviously, there are parts of “White Chicks” that haven’t aged well. But when you need a guaranteed laugh, you can’t go wrong with this movie.

‘The Black Godfather’

This documentary chronicles the unmatched influence of Clarence Avant, a man who helped lift countless Black politicians and entertainers to success. His impact on Black culture is immeasurable, so it’s beautiful to see him get his flowers.

‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’

Viola Davis gives a tour de force performance as uncompromising blues singer Ma Rainey. There’s not one bad performance in this film, showcasing the power of a skilled ensemble.

‘Dolemite Is My Name’

It’s remarkable that at this stage in his career, Eddie Murphy is still finding ways to surprise us with his talent, but he’s still got it. In “Dolemite Is My Name,” he effortlessly combines his well honed comedic timing with his ability to find the humanity behind over the top characters.

‘The Perfect Find’

Gabrielle Union is a middle aged woman who finds love with a younger man just as she decides to reset her career. We’re always here for Black love. We need more Black rom-coms.

‘Black Barbie’

For anyone who’s ever owned a Barbie doll this documentary about the creation of the first Black Barbie is fascinating.

Straight From The Root

Sign up for our free daily newsletter.

Latest from The Root

The Best Black Super Bowl Halftime Performances of the Modern Era, Ranked

The Best Black Super Bowl Halftime Performances of the Modern Era, Ranked

Prince, Beyonce and Kendrick Lamar set the bar very high for Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl 58 halftime show. Let’s take a look at who did it the best! …
Say It Loud: This is The Ultimate Black History Month Playlist

Say It Loud: This is The Ultimate Black History Month Playlist

This February, we’re listening to these soul, R&B and hip-hop hits by some of our favorite Black artists …
Rapper Lil Jon Speaks Out After Missing Son Is Found Dead

Rapper Lil Jon Speaks Out After Missing Son Is Found Dead

Lil Jon is facing an unfathomable loss in his family and now he’s sharing his devastation with his fans …
You'll Never Guess What J. Cole's Net Worth Really Is?

You’ll Never Guess What J. Cole’s Net Worth Really Is?

After J. Cole dropped what’s expected to be his last studio album, we’re looking at the insane net worth he’s gained over the years …
A$AP Rocky's Interaction With Kids in a Harlem Classroom Might Just Surprise You

A$AP Rocky’s Interaction With Kids in a Harlem Classroom Might Just Surprise You

Rapper A$AP Rocky is flexing his rap skills and just how good he is with kids in a new, viral video. And it’s way too heartwarming! …
Viral Video Shows Brazen Chicago Daylight Shooting That Killed Woman as Baby Rode in Back Seat

Viral Video Shows Brazen Chicago Daylight Shooting That Killed Woman as Baby Rode in Back Seat

Steps away from Chicago’s St. Sabina Church, a brazen shooting caught on camera killed one woman and wounded another as a baby sat in the backseat …
GloRilla's Sister Blasts Her for Not Giving Back to Family, But the Internet Says Not So Fast!

GloRilla’s Sister Blasts Her for Not Giving Back to Family, But the Internet Says Not So Fast!

Rapper GloRilla’s family business is being put out on front street thanks to her sister. But folks online aren’t taking it the way she probably thought! …
Which Stars Could Join Bad Bunny at the 2026 Super Bowl LX? We Have An Idea

Which Stars Could Join Bad Bunny at the 2026 Super Bowl LX? We Have An Idea

Bad Bunny is gearing up to take the stage at the 2026 Super Bowl! And we have a good idea of who might join him …
Black Super Bowl Firsts You Never Knew About

Black Super Bowl Firsts You Never Knew About

Check out some of the Black NFL players and staff who made history at the Super Bowl championship game! …
British Airways Flight Turns Into Full-On Sunday Service Mid-Air

British Airways Flight Turns Into Full-On Sunday Service Mid-Air

Passengers on a flight from London to Jamaica took to the aisles to sing and pray, but not everyone was feeling it …
Trump Just Took His Most Viciously Racist Shot at the Obamas to Date

Trump Just Took His Most Viciously Racist Shot at the Obamas to Date

Trump’s latest attacks against Barack and Michelle Obama during Black History Month have the internet in a frenzy …
Professor: Why Black People Should Skip The Super Bowl  This Year

Professor: Why Black People Should Skip The Super Bowl This Year

On the NFL’s biggest stage, Black labor is everywhere and Black leadership is nowhere …
Christopher 'Kid 'n Play' Reid Shares Shocking Health News

Christopher ‘Kid ‘n Play’ Reid Shares Shocking Health News

Kid from the popular 90s rap dup Kid’n Play is opening up about a shocking health experience and urging fans to take action for their own lives! …
You <i>Have</i> to Read Whoopi Goldberg's Hilarious Life Update

You Have to Read Whoopi Goldberg’s Hilarious Life Update

Whoopi Goldberg is once again going viral for her comments about love and relationships and it’s clear to see why! …
The Historical Reasons Black Folks Are Rooting for Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show

The Historical Reasons Black Folks Are Rooting for Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show

Wondering why Black folks are excited for Bad Bunny’s halftime show? Well, you may be shocked to find out the historic connection between Black Americans and Puerto Ricans …
The Mystery of a Philly Woman Found Frozen to Death Under a Bridge After Being Kicked Out of Nightclub

The Mystery of a Philly Woman Found Frozen to Death Under a Bridge After Being Kicked Out of Nightclub

A Philadelphia family is demanding answers after a woman was found frozen to death under a highway bridge after she was kicked out of a nightclub …
A Bullet Destroyed a Black Iowa Teen's Jaw, Here's How AI Made It Right

A Bullet Destroyed a Black Iowa Teen’s Jaw, Here’s How AI Made It Right

After undergoing multiple surgeries to replace a jaw that was shattered in a tragic shooting, Mya Buie is getting a well-deserved second chance …
Sparkle Denies ‘Grooming’ Allegations Following R. Kelly Victim's Explosive CBS Mornings Interview

Sparkle Denies ‘Grooming’ Allegations Following R. Kelly Victim’s Explosive CBS Mornings Interview

After Reshona Landfair’s viral CBS Mornings appearance, her aunt Sparkle is denying claims that she enabled R. Kelly’s abuse, calling the allegations of grooming an “absolute lie.” …
Grand Jury Calls Close Friend of D4vd to the Witness Stand in Tragic Celeste Rivas Investigation

Grand Jury Calls Close Friend of D4vd to the Witness Stand in Tragic Celeste Rivas Investigation

Reports that a grand jury could indict D4vd in connection to the death of Celeste Rivas are coming to light …
Internet Responds to Joe Budden Calling Out Rappers for Being Too Quiet About ICE Raids

Internet Responds to Joe Budden Calling Out Rappers for Being Too Quiet About ICE Raids

Joe Budden has had it with the hip-hop community and its alleged lack of concern for all the ICE raids and chaos. And he’s got something to say about it! …