As a cinephile who’s been around the block a few times, I must say it’s heartening to see such a diverse array of Black filmmakers making their mark in the horror genre, a space that has long been dominated by others.
In the realm of terrifying movies from the past ten years (and beyond), it’s indisputable that Jordan Peele’s directorial work, particularly “Get Out,” significantly reshaped the horror genre. However, one might wonder where the influx of Black filmmakers is, capitalizing on their unique perspectives and following in the footsteps of Peele’s 2017 Best Picture nominee success. Regrettably, despite opening an important door, no other Black horror movie has achieved the same level of fame as one of Peele’s films since then.
It doesn’t imply that there haven’t been strong horror movies produced by Black filmmakers with meaningful messages since 2017; instead, they often fly under the radar. Here are some chilling films from the genre directed by emerging Black talents that you should definitely check out: [Movies Titles] marked in red.
Zoë Kravitz – Blink Twice (2024)
Blink Twice”, directed by Zoë Kravitz, known for her role in “The Batman”, has just been released in theaters this year. Unfortunately, it’s gaining recognition as an underappreciated horror film, considering its performance at the box office.
The film revolves around two characters, portrayed by Naomi Ackie and Alia Shawkat, who receive an invitation for a seemingly idyllic getaway on a secluded island from Channing Tatum’s character, Slater King – a wealthy tech entrepreneur. Yet, not much time passes before Ackie’s character, Frida, starts to doubt the events unfolding on the island and her own perception of reality.
Despite not achieving commercial success comparable to titles like Deadpool & Wolverine or Alien: Romulus, Blink Twice has garnered acclaim from critics for Kravitz’s bold explorations of themes such as gender inequality and white privilege, as well as her stylish approach to directing. I’m eagerly anticipating future projects from Kravitz, especially if they delve back into the horror genre.
Justin Simien – Bad Hair (2020)
Following an impressive initial outing with the acclaimed 2014 release “Dear White People,” director and screenwriter Justin Simien delved into the genre of satirical horror with the underappreciated horror movie on Hulu titled “Bad Hair.
The 2020 film, incredibly fashionable, tells the story of a Black woman residing in 1989 and employed at an African-American music television network. Her latest hairpiece seems to come alive, initially boosting her aspirations for success, but as the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that this weave is possessed and has deeply troubling origins, gradually exerting control over her.
Via its sleek premise, brimming with exuberant, over-the-top humor, Simien explores the destructive nature of beauty ideals using numerous darkly comical moments. After watching Bad Hair on Hulu, don’t forget to check out our analysis of its ending.
Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour Jr. – Black Box (2020)
In 2020, Blumhouse Productions released a collection of horror films on Amazon called “Welcome to the Blumhouse.” One of these was Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour’s science fiction horror film titled “Black Box.” The movie features Mamoudou Athie as Nolan, a man who lost his memory following a tragic car accident that made him both a widower and a single father. To get the necessary assistance, Nolan agrees to participate in an experimental treatment conducted by Dr. Lillian Brooks, portrayed by Phylicia Rashad, which allows him to explore his own memories.
Despite some unrealized potential noted in our initial review upon its release, Osei-Kuffour’s unique take on the concept as a Black filmmaker was both refreshing and noteworthy. We eagerly anticipate future opportunities for him to showcase his talent further. Notably, he has directed episodes for ‘Shogun’ and ‘Star Trek: Discovery’, but since then, there hasn’t been another horror movie of his own creation.
Mariama Diallo – Master (2022)
Regina Hall plays the lead role in the psychological horror-thriller “Master,” a debut film by writer-director Mariama Diallo. This movie had its premiere at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival, where it received acclaim from critics for its insightful social commentary and chilling suspense. The story centers around Gail Bishop, played by Hall, who has recently been appointed as the first Black master of an esteemed New England university.
At this historically predominantly white university, where traces of the past still echo from when a woman was hanged for witchcraft during the Salem witch trials, Gail and a freshman Black student named Zoe Renee stand out as the embodiments of diversity. From this perspective, Diallo offers insightful comments on the damaging effects of tokenism and subtle racial prejudice that can be particularly injurious in such an environment.
Oz Rodriguez – Vampires Vs. The Bronx (2020)
For over ten years, Oz Rodriguez, an Afro-Dominican filmmaker, served as a segment director on the popular and esteemed comedy series “Saturday Night Live”. Near the end of his tenure there, he collaborated with another writer to create and direct the Netflix film “Vampires vs. the Bronx”. This movie offers a fresh and entertaining perspective on the vampire genre. The story revolves around a diverse group of youngsters, including those of Latino and Black descent, who band together to protect their neighborhood in the Bronx from bloodsuckers attempting to gentrify it.
Vampires vs. The Bronx” offers a delightful mix of the genuine struggles of urban renewal and dark, humorous supernatural themes. Don’t miss it with your Netflix account!
Nikyatu Jusu – Nanny (2022)
To wrap things up, but by no means least, there’s Nikyatu Jusu’s gripping directorial debut titled “Nanny“. In an interview with TopMob in 2022, the filmmaker shared her vision for blending West African folklore into the horror genre. The movie tells the story of a Senegalese immigrant woman who works as a nanny in America while yearning to be reunited with her own child.
At its initial screening at the esteemed Sundance Film Festival, it claimed the Grand Jury Prize, marking it as the inaugural horror film to earn this accolade. Currently, filmmaker Jusu is developing an unnamed horror production in collaboration with Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions and Universal Studios, according to Deadline. Despite its brilliant debut often being overlooked, it’s rewarding to witness the momentum that has catapulted her towards this more prominent project.
This Halloween season, stay informed about the latest horror films hitting theaters by checking out TopMob. Don’t forget to show some appreciation for these exciting titles!
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2024-09-14 18:07