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
You Won’t Believe the Reason Why This ‘High School Musical’ Movie is Monique Coleman’s All Time Favorite

‘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

Breaking Down Who's Playing Who In Michael Jackson Movie

Breaking Down Who’s Playing Who In Michael Jackson Movie

The highly-anticipated Michael Jackson movie hits theaters April 24. Let’s take a look at who’s portraying the famous faces! …
Everything You Need to Know About the KKK

Everything You Need to Know About the KKK

The Root is taking a closer look into the Ku Klux Klan, one of the most notorious terrorist organizations of all time …
Here's a Full Timeline of Trump's Years-Long Beef with AG Letitia James

Here’s a Full Timeline of Trump’s Years-Long Beef with AG Letitia James

If you’re not caught up with the latest beef between Trump and Letitia James, don’t worry. We have you covered with everything to know since 2022 …
HBCU Alumni Score Higher in Brain Health Than PWI Peers, New Study Finds

HBCU Alumni Score Higher in Brain Health Than PWI Peers, New Study Finds

A new study shows that the HBCU experience may actually be connected to a lifetime of well-being …
Rihanna Gives Firsthand Account of Home Shooting Incident

Rihanna Gives Firsthand Account of Home Shooting Incident

New details from Rihanna are emerging about her unfortunate home shooting from Let’s get into it …
Druski Goes Viral With Hilarious Skit on 'Conservative Women in America'

Druski Goes Viral With Hilarious Skit on ‘Conservative Women in America’

Fan-favorite comedian Druski transforms into a satirical “Christian conservative” character, sparking millions of views and a heated online debate …
82 and Fabulous: Diana Ross's Style Through the Years

82 and Fabulous: Diana Ross’s Style Through the Years

As ‘The Boss’ turns another year older, we thought it’d be fitting to revel in the fabulous fashions of the legendary singer over the years. Let’s take a look! …
TikToker Finds Jill Scott’s Family Photos at Goodwill and Launches Mission to Return Them

TikToker Finds Jill Scott’s Family Photos at Goodwill and Launches Mission to Return Them

After stumbling across Jill Scott’s family photos in Goodwill, one TikToker user has returned the precious memories back to the singer …
New Details In Kandi Burruss Divorce From Todd Tucker

New Details In Kandi Burruss Divorce From Todd Tucker

The divorce settlement details between ‘RHOA’ star Kandi Burruss and ex Todd Tucker have been released. Let’s take a look! …
Verzuz, Once Beloved, Is Now Dead. We Just Haven’t Buried It Yet.

Verzuz, Once Beloved, Is Now Dead. We Just Haven’t Buried It Yet.

Professor: It gave us everything we needed in 2020 and nothing we need now …
Why Serena Williams' Look in Her Latest Social Media Post Has Her Black Fans Going Off

Why Serena Williams’ Look in Her Latest Social Media Post Has Her Black Fans Going Off

Serena Williams has unfortunately reignited more talks of potential skin bleaching thank to new posts on social media. And folks online are not happy! …
Lamar Odom's Ex Liza Morales Reveals the Tragedy That Ended Their Relationship

Lamar Odom’s Ex Liza Morales Reveals the Tragedy That Ended Their Relationship

While many know NBA star Lamar Odom for his famous relationship with Khloe Kardashian, his teenage sweetheart is finally opening up about their dynamic …
Tank vs. Tyrese: The Ultimate R&B Playlist for the 'Verzuz' Battle

Tank vs. Tyrese: The Ultimate R&B Playlist for the ‘Verzuz’ Battle

“Verzuz” is back, y’all! From “Sweet Lady” to “When We,” Tank and Tyrese are bringing all their hits to the stage. We curated the best playlist to get you ready to sing and slow dance for the show …
Black People Are Asking Why We Didn't Know About Mamdani’s Wife’s N-Word Tweets

Black People Are Asking Why We Didn’t Know About Mamdani’s Wife’s N-Word Tweets

Black folks are pissed after Zohran Mamdani’s wife’s old tweets resurfaced, painting her in a problematic light within the Black community …
The Numbers Don't Lie—Black Women Are Leading and It Has Nothing to Do With Magic

The Numbers Don’t Lie—Black Women Are Leading and It Has Nothing to Do With Magic

From the C-suite to entrepreneurship, Black women have had a record-breaking rise in recent years, even as they battle an uneven playing field …
Why a Comedian's Translation of 'The Lion King's' Iconic Opening Song Just Backfired in a BIG Way

Why a Comedian’s Translation of ‘The Lion King’s’ Iconic Opening Song Just Backfired in a BIG Way

The “Circle of Life” chant is one of the most recognizable sounds in Disney movie history! But right now, it’s the center of a $27 million legal war …
Black America Reacts To The Rise Of Black ICE Agents

Black America Reacts To The Rise Of Black ICE Agents

Reviews are mixed on whether maskless Black ICE agents are causing more harm than good in U.S. airports …
Woman Will Become a Doctor at the Hospital Where She Once Cleaned Floors

Woman Will Become a Doctor at the Hospital Where She Once Cleaned Floors

Shay Taylor-Allen shared a now-viral clip of the moment she learned that she would do her medical residency at Yale Hospital –where she once worked as a janitor …
We Finally Know More About The Usher and Justin Bieber Confrontation

We Finally Know More About The Usher and Justin Bieber Confrontation

Usher and Justin Bieber allegedly got into a ‘heated exchange’ during an Oscars after-party. And now we’ve got insight into what really went down! …
Boston's 'Best Social Justice Advocate' Learns Fate After Stealing $224K From the BLM Movement for Vacations, Dinners

Boston’s ‘Best Social Justice Advocate’ Learns Fate After Stealing $224K From the BLM Movement for Vacations, Dinners

Monica Cannon-Grant, named “Bostonian of the Year,” stole donations and rental aid while illegally collecting unemployment as she organized BLM …