February marks the celebration of Black History Month, a time dedicated to reflecting on and learning about the experiences and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. It’s crucial to recognize that this learning opportunity is not limited to a single month, particularly when discussing Black horror cinema—a genre that unveils significant cultural narratives and social commentary.
Black horror, as a genre, highlights the experiences and perspectives of Black characters while often confronting relevant societal issues. Here, we present a selection of impactful Black horror films that deserve your attention all year round.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
George A. Romero’s groundbreaking film, *Night of the Living Dead*, is a must-watch for horror aficionados. The film depicts a group of individuals stranded in rural Pennsylvania amid a zombie apocalypse. Its historical significance can’t be overstated, as it features Ben, played by Duane Jones, as the central character—a bold choice for the 1960s. The film critiques societal fears surrounding ‘the other, ’ particularly in relation to Black identity. Despite his heroism in rescuing a group of predominantly white survivors, Ben ultimately meets a tragic fate, underscoring the harsh realities of racial tensions at the time. This cinematic piece remains a cornerstone of Black horror history.
Blacula (1972)
While the title *Blacula* may evoke a chuckle, the film serves as a vital contribution to Black horror cinema. It tells the story of Mamuwalde, an African prince turned into a vampire by Dracula, who loses the love of his life and attempts to reclaim his identity in the modern world.
Despite certain outdated elements, including explicit homophobia, *Blacula* addresses themes of slavery and the pervasive nature of racism. The film’s cultural impact is significant as it catalyzed the blaxploitation horror trend, paving the way for more inclusive storytelling within the genre.
Ganja & Hess (1973)
Regarded for its stunning visuals, *Ganja & Hess* is a horror film that transcends mere aesthetics. It narrates the tale of a doctor who transforms into a vampire and subsequently falls in love with his assistant’s widow. The film delves into profound themes of religion, desire, addiction, and moral conflict, creating an almost dreamlike experience for viewers. Its artistic influence resonates in subsequent Black supernatural horror films, showcasing its significance in the genre.
Sugar Hill (1974)
In *Sugar Hill*, revenge takes center stage as a woman avenges her murdered boyfriend with the help of resurrected zombies.
This film is quintessential for anyone interested in blaxploitation horror, tackling the systemic injustices faced by Black individuals. As Sugar (played by Marki Bey) takes matters into her own hands, the film delivers both empowerment and stylistic flair, featuring a strong Black female lead who embodies resilience and determination.
The People Under the Stairs (1991)
Wes Craven’s *The People Under the Stairs* presents an intriguing blend of humor and horror, featuring a young Black protagonist, nicknamed “Fool, ” who attempts to rob his racist landlords only to find himself ensnared in a horror show.
This underrated gem sheds light on contemporary issues as it critiques exploitative capitalism while flipping the narrative to feature a Black child in the hero’s role. The film’s influence has inspired future works that continue to showcase young Black protagonists in daring adventures, with titles like *The Boy Behind the Door* emerging in its wake.
Candyman (1992)
Rest in peace to the legendary Tony Todd, an icon forever.*Candyman* tells the story of Helen (Virginia Madsen), who becomes entangled in the chilling myth of the Candyman (Tony Todd).
Regarded as one of the most formidable horror films ever made, *Candyman* dives deep into themes of race, class struggle, and societal privilege. Tony Todd’s portrayal of Candyman is unforgettable, establishing him as a cultural figure alongside iconic horror villains. The film’s forward-thinking approach toward representing sympathetic antagonists marks a significant moment in Black horror cinema.
Tales from the Hood (1995)
Regarded as a standout in horror anthology films, *Tales from the Hood* presents a series of narratives that shed light on the realities faced by Black communities.
This cult classic remains relevant, addressing issues such as police brutality and domestic violence against Black women—topics that resonate with today’s society. With a blend of humor and horror, the intricately woven tales leave a lasting impact, influencing the anthology format in the years that followed its release.
Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight
A quintessential entry in the genre, *Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight* chronicles a group of individuals compelled to secure an ancient key from a menacing demon intent on unleashing chaos.
The film not only gains admiration for its impressive practical effects and dark humor but also showcases Jeryline, played by Jada Pinkett Smith—one of the few Black final girls in horror history. Her strong character serves as inspiration for subsequent films to include Black women as formidable leads, marking a progression in horror storytelling.
Blade (1998)
Widely recognized as one of Marvel’s standout films, *Blade* introduces us to Blade—the Dhampir played by Wesley Snipes—who battles against a clan of power-hungry vampires.
Often credited with establishing Marvel’s film success through its darker tone, *Blade* offers a fresh take on the vampire genre. The film articulates a strong Black hero narrative, highlighting Blade as an iconic figure that opened doors for other empowering Black characters within horror, particularly in the realm of vampire films.
Get Out (2017)
Celebrating the brilliance of Jordan Peele, *Get Out* follows Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), a Black man who becomes unwittingly embroiled in his white girlfriend’s family’s sinister agenda.
This modern classic explores the insidious nature of liberal racism, showcasing its relevance in today’s sociopolitical climate. Jordan Peele’s groundbreaking work not only reshaped Black horror but also empowered other filmmakers within the genre to experiment with bold narratives. The cultural impact of *Get Out* continues to resonate, changing the landscape of horror cinema forever.
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