These Are the Best, Black 80s Movies, Ever

The 1980s gave us some of the most iconic Black films ever made—movies that shaped culture, launched stars, and still define Black storytelling.

From fast-talking detectives to musical legends who decided to get into their acting bag, Black cinema in the ’80s was bold, loud, stylish, and unapologetically ours. These were the films that introduced us to household names, spotlighted emerging directors, and proved that Black stories could dominate the box office and shift the narrative at the same time.

Whether you grew up quoting lines from “Coming to America” or discovered Spike Lee’s early work, these films have undeniable staying power. Since the weekend’s here and you’re looking for something to watch, take a trip back to the ’80s.

“Purple Rain”- 1984

Starring: Prince Rogers Nelson, Morris Day, Appolonia

There’s no way you can talk about the 80s without mentioning Prince, no matter if you were a die-hard fan of his music or not. This film, and the accompanying album, is his magnum opus and serves as a defining moment of the decade and pop culture in general.

“Coming to America”- 1988

Starring: Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, Shari Headley, James Earl Jones

Just like you can’t talk about the 80s without mentioning Prince, the same could be said for Murphy who no doubt took over the decade with a myriad of memorable films like “Coming to America” and more.

“The Color Purple”- 1985

Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Margaret Avery, Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover

Though the NAACP may have had an issue with this film initially, “The Color Purple” made waves in the 80s in more ways than one when it came to the plight of Southern Black women.

“A Soldier’s Story”- 1984

Starring: Howard E. Rollins Jr., Denzel Washington, Adolph Caesar, David Alan Grier

One of Denzel Washington’s earliest films that introduced him to the mainstream is 1984’s “A Soldier’s Story.” The film is an adaptation of the Broadway play of the same name. It also tells a poignant story of racism, crime and military politics.

“Beverly Hills Cop”

Starring: Eddie Murphy, Lisa Eilbacher, Steven Berkoff

Though some studios felt it would be a risk casting a fairly new Murphy in this film, clearly it paid off given how successful “Beverly Hills Cop” ended up being.

“Do the Right Thing”- 1989

Starring: Spike Lee, Giancarlo Esposito, Samuel L. Jackson

Spike Lee made yet another unforgettable political commentary movie that was equal parts timely and entertaining.

“Hollywood Shuffle”- 1987

Starring: Robert Townsend, Anne-Marie Johnson, Keenen Ivory Wayans, Helen Martin

We really don’t give Robert Townsend enough credit for how he burst onto the scene, creating new paths and positive change for Black actors in Hollywood. But that all changes now!

“Glory”- 1989

Starring: Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, Andre Braugher

There’s a reason why we refer to actor’s who can make a single tear fall down their face as the “Glory tear” and it has to do with Washington’s phenomenal performance in this 80’s film.

“Lean on Me”- 1989

Starring: Morgan Freeman, Karen Malina White, Beverly Todd

Who knew a Bill Withers song would serve as perfect inspiration for a film centered around inner-city school kids fighting to keep their school and themselves together? And who knew Freeman would be so convincing and moving as Principal Joe Clark.?

“Krush Groove”- 1985

Starring: Blair Underwood, Russell Simmons, Run DMC, LL Cool J

You would think for a movie that featured songs from Chaka Khan, Gap Band and Sheila E., and was loosely inspired by the early days of Def Jam Recordings more people would be talking about it more. But no! Hopefully that changes after today!

“Harlem Nights”- 1989

Starring: Eddie Murphy, Arsenio Hall, Richard Pryor

In his new documentary, “Being Eddie,” Murphy explained that directing his idol (Pryor) in “Harlem Nights” was one of the highlights of his entire career. Thankfully, this film became a bright spot of the 80s, too.

“I’m Gonna Git You Sucka”- 1988

Starring: Keenen Ivory Wayans, Bernie Casey, Chris Rock, Damon Wayans

Just two years before the Wayans family would take over the small screen on a regular basis via “In Living Color,” Keenen Ivory Wayans brought the laughs to the silver screen in “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka”–alongside some supremely talented folks!

“Beverly Hills Cop II”- 1987

Starring: Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton

We swear this is the final Eddie Murphy movie on this list. While it isn’t our fault that he reigned supreme in Hollywood during this era, we’re certainly grateful because shout him, we wouldn’t have fantastic movie franchises like this!