Real Life Stories To Help You Celebrate This Black History Month

Today is February 1 and the beginning of Black History Month—an opportune time to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of the African American community. In the realm of film and television, this month brings a wave of new releases and some coming not too far after. As we celebrate, let's explore the latest releases that entertain, inspire and contribute to a deeper understanding of Black heritage.

Genius: MLK/X

Streaming: NATGEO/ABC

Release Date: February 1

In this compelling limited TV series, crafted by Damione Macedon and Raphael Jackson Jr., we delve into the narratives of two of the most prominent figures in Civil Rights history. Martin Luther King Jr., and Malcolm X, icons in their own right, hailing from diverse upbringings, holding different religious beliefs and embracing distinct ideologies, are both chasing the same goal— the pursuit of equality for Black people in America. The film stars Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Aaron Pierre

The Space Race

Streaming: NatGeo

Release Date: February 12

The Space Race takes us on a journey spanning decades, exploring the history of Black astronauts also known as Afronauts who played a crucial role in dismantling inequality worldwide, paving the way for humanity to reach the stars. From astronauts like Guion Bluford, Ed Dwight, and Charles Bolden, directors Diego Hurtado de Mendoza and Lisa Cortés chronicle NASA’s initial efforts to send the first Black man, Ed Dwight, into space, and leads up to the events of 2020 where the nation's outrage over the killings of George Floyd reached the International Space Station. The Space Race sheds light on the unspoken and unheard-of Black heroes who not only paved the way for future astronauts but also influenced the trajectory of this country's future.

Bobi Wine 

Streaming: NatGeo

Release Date: Out Now

The ruthless dictator Yoweri Museveni has held power since 1986 and is altering the Ugandan Constitution to prolong his rule over the people. Tired of the abuse of power, Bobi Wine, an activist and musician, enters the country’s 2021 Presidential Race, using his musical talent to challenge the regime and advance his life mission of uplifting oppressed Uganda. Facing constant threats of violence from the police and the military, Wine must not only risk his own life but also that of his wife and children to oppose Museveni and his oppressive regime.

Queens

Streaming: NatGeo

Release Date: March 4

Introducing QUEENS, a groundbreaking seven-part series narrated by Oscar award-winning actress Angela Bassett. Explore the wildest places on Earth through a female lens, showcasing matriarchies and resilient female leaders worldwide. These QUEENS, guided by wisdom and cooperation, prioritize the success and safety of their families. Produced by a female-led team from around the globe, this series uses cutting-edge technology to uncover insights into how females in the natural world rise to power. The final episode honors women dedicated to documenting and protecting animal queens. All Hail…the QUEENS! 

Critter Fixers

Streaming: NatGeo

Release: Spring 2024

100 miles south of Atlanta, Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson are two longtime friends who own and operate Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital. Together with their loving staff, Drs. Hodges and Ferguson treat and care for over 20,000 patients. Between emergency visits to the office, and farm calls throughout rural Georgia - the Critter Fixers are constantly bombarded with unique cases you only see in the country.