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.

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‘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.

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