See our roster of Black romance movies below, and for more recommendations be sure to read our monthly Criterion Collection picks and Spike Lee movies to watch.
Everett Collection
“Love Jones”
“Love Jones” is quintessential viewing for lovers of Black romance films. The 1997 drama, written and directed by Theodore Witcher, showcases the magnetic chemistry between two creative minds. Nina (Nia Long), an aspiring photographer, and Darius (Lorenz Tate), an aspiring writer, connect one night at a Chicago nightclub and become virtually inseparable. The whirlwind romance hits a roadblock though, solidifying Nina’s decision to pursue a dream job in New York City where she reconnects with her ex-fiancé. But her chapter with Darius isn’t over just yet.
Annapurna Pictures
“If Beale Street Could Talk”
Everett Collection
“Love & Basketball”
Gina Prince-Bythewood’s directorial debut “Love & Basketball” was recently restored by The Criterion Collection. This romantic sports drama starring Omar Epps and Sanaa Lathan tells the story of childhood friends who go from playful rivals on the basketball court to teenage lovebirds and college sweethearts — all while chasing their basketball dreams.
©IFC Films/Courtesy Everett Collection
“Medicine for Melancholy”
Years before Barry Jenkins displayed Black romance in “If Beale Street Could Talk” and “Moonlight,” the Oscar winner released “Medicine for Melancholy.” Jenkins’ first feature film is set in San Francisco and centers around a man and a woman attempting to forge a lasting connection after a one-night stand (easier said than done). “Medicine for Melancholy” is also available on DVD.
“Sylvie’s Love”
From dialogue to cinematography, “Sylvie’s Love” is a beautiful film about a summer love story that goes the distance. Written and directed by Eugene Ashe, the romantic story takes place in 1960s Harlem where we meet Sylvie (Tessa Thompson), and Robert (Nnamdi Asomugha). The pair fall in love after saxophonist Robert takes a job working at Sylvie’s father’s record store, but as Robert’s career starts to take flight, his relationship with Sylvie begins to fall apart. Ryan Michelle Bathe, Regé-Jean Page, Aja Naomi King, and Eva Longoria also appear in the film.
Everett Collection
“Jason’s Lyric”
“Quiet in a world full of thunder.” The 1994 romantic drama “Jason’s Lyric” is about young Black Houstonians Jason (Allen Payne) and Lyric (Jada Pinkett Smith), a duo whose chaotic and at times traumatic lives take a turn when they surrender to love. Bokeem Woodbine, Forest Whitaker, Lisa Caron, and Eddie Griffin are among the film’s cast.
Everett Collection
“Brown Sugar”
Despite being mostly about relationships and dating, hip-hop is an important part of “Brown Sugar.” The 2002 romantic comedy revolves around childhood friends who fall in love with hip-hop on a New York City playground. Their passion for music fuels them to embark on successful career paths only to reunite and realize that their deep connection might not be platonic. Lathan stars opposite Taye Diggs in the film, which also stars Nicole Ari Parker, Boris Kodjoe, Queen Latifah, and Yasiin Bey (aka Mos Def). Sign Up: Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.
