20 Movies Where the Black Best Friend Quietly Runs the Entire Plot

For a long time, movies have often relegated Black characters to supporting roles, with white characters as the main heroes. These supporting characters are frequently highly capable and often have the skills or knowledge to solve the story’s main problems, even if they don’t get the recognition. This common trope features a remarkably competent friend who provides emotional support and practical solutions that the hero needs to succeed. Many viewers realize when rewatching these films that the supporting character is actually the driving force behind the entire plot.

‘Rocky III’ (1982)

After Rocky Balboa loses his championship to Clubber Lang, Apollo Creed steps in to help him regain his strength. Creed completely changes Rocky’s training, focusing on speed and timing. Rocky wouldn’t have been able to beat Lang without the intense training and new strategy Apollo put together. Apollo is the driving force behind Rocky’s incredible physical and mental comeback, allowing him to win back his title.

‘Die Hard’ (1988)

During the Nakatomi Plaza crisis, Sergeant Al Powell is John McClane’s critical connection to the outside world. He offers much-needed emotional support via radio, preventing McClane from losing hope. Powell also acts as a vital source of accurate information for the police, who are struggling to manage the situation effectively. Ultimately, Powell rescues McClane from the last remaining danger and finds his own path to personal redemption.

‘Ghost’ (1990)

After Sam dies, he tries to connect with his heartbroken girlfriend, Molly, but can’t until he meets Oda Mae Brown, a psychic who’s hesitant to use her abilities. Oda Mae becomes the only way for Sam to reveal how he was murdered and protect Molly. She puts herself in danger to help them both, ultimately allowing Sam to find peace and move on. The entire story – both the mystery and the love story – depends on her willingness to get involved.

‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’ (1991)

Okay, let me tell you about Azeem. He’s the real MVP of this Robin Hood story, honestly. From the moment he steps onto English soil with Robin, he’s the smartest, most capable guy in the bunch. He doesn’t just fight well – he thinks strategically. He brings things like telescopes and, get this, gunpowder – seriously boosting the rebels’ chances against the castle. And it’s not an exaggeration to say Robin would have been toast multiple times if it weren’t for Azeem’s quick thinking and fighting skills. The whole mission would have fallen apart without him; he’s the brains and tactical muscle that Robin desperately needs.

‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994)

Ellis Boyd Redding, known as Red, is the story’s narrator and the one who keeps things running within the prison walls. He’s the one who gets Andy Dufresne the tools he needs for his eventual escape – a rock hammer and a poster. More importantly, Red’s friendship provides Andy with support during his toughest times. Ultimately, the story is about Red discovering hope and a new purpose in life, guided by Andy’s example.

‘Clueless’ (1995)

Dionne Davenport is Cher Horowitz’s best friend and often acts as her voice of reason. While Cher has trouble with relationships, Dionne has a solid one of her own. Dionne frequently keeps Cher grounded, helping them both maintain their popular status at school. She essentially keeps Cher from going too far with her often misguided attempts to set people up.

‘Strange Days’ (1995)

Lornette Mason is the steady force in the life of the troubled ex-cop, Lenny Nero. She consistently rescues him from danger as he pursues a past love and unravels a complex conspiracy. Not only does she fuel the film’s action, but she also challenges Lenny to face the harsh truths about his life. Ultimately, her courage and dedication are essential to solving the murder mystery and ensuring justice prevails.

‘Happy Gilmore’ (1996)

I’ve always been amazed by the story of Happy Gillmore. He was a hockey player who just couldn’t quite make it, but then he met Chubbs Peterson, and everything changed. Chubbs saw something special in him, a real natural ability, and convinced him to try professional golf. It wasn’t easy, of course. Chubbs took so much time, so much patience, to teach him the delicate short game and, even more importantly, how to stay mentally strong under pressure. It broke my heart when Chubbs passed away, but it was clear his lessons lived on in Happy. Without Chubbs’ unwavering belief and guidance, Happy would have likely stayed on the construction site. It was truly inspiring to watch Happy honor Chubbs’ memory by ultimately defeating Shooter McGavin and winning it all.

‘Anaconda’ (1997)

Danny Rich expertly steers the camera boat and is the calmest person on the documentary team. While others face danger from a huge snake and a dangerous hunter, Danny navigates the tricky Amazon River. He ultimately defeats the last threat, saving the last remaining crew member. His skillful piloting and fast reactions are the only reasons anyone escapes the jungle.

‘Deep Blue Sea’ (1999)

You know, I always thought the Preacher character was hilarious, but looking back, he was the real MVP of that whole shark-infested mess. Everyone else was panicking, but he was the one actually trying to figure things out. He knew the research station layout, which was a huge advantage, and surprisingly, his cooking skills came in handy for distracting those super-smart sharks! He wasn’t just the comic relief; he was genuinely clever and helped everyone else get around as the place was going down. Honestly, I loved that he broke the typical ‘funny sidekick dies first’ trope – he not only survived, but he actually helped take out the last shark. A total badass, if you ask me.

‘She’s All That’ (1999)

Preston Brooks is the school’s popular and well-off DJ, essentially running the social life. He’s in charge of the parties and creates the spaces where the main characters meet and connect. He stands up for Laney Boggs, protecting her from being bullied, and challenges the negative behavior of other popular kids. Through his quiet influence, he helps the central love story unfold.

‘The Family Man’ (2000)

Cash is a pivotal character who unexpectedly throws Jack Campbell back into the life he abandoned. Their brief meeting at a convenience store on Christmas Eve sparks a whole new reality for Jack. Though Cash appears only briefly, they have the power to completely change Jack’s life, orchestrating the lessons he learns about love and the importance of family.

‘Unbreakable’ (2000)

Elijah Price believes a real superhero exists and spends his life trying to find him, partly to prove his own worth. He secretly causes accidents hoping to discover someone with powers, and once he finds David Dunn, he constantly challenges him to embrace them. The whole story unfolds because Elijah is secretly pulling the strings, building a heroic legend. The shocking reveal at the end is that he was the mastermind behind everything.

‘Save the Last Dance’ (2001)

Chenille Reynolds quickly befriends Sara, the new student, and guides her through the challenges of a big city high school. She not only teaches Sara how to dance but also stands up for her when other students are unkind. Chenille also challenges Sara to recognize her own advantages and learn about the difficulties faced by the Black community. Sara’s developing romance and her chance to audition for the dance team wouldn’t have happened without Chenille’s help and encouragement.

‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ (2005)

Ford Prefect rescues Arthur Dent just before Earth is destroyed and then helps him travel through space. Ford knows everything they need to survive the strange and often dangerous universe, thanks to his knowledge and a handy guidebook. While Arthur is mostly confused and along for the ride, Ford is constantly figuring things out and dealing with complicated alien rules. Without Ford’s fast actions and a special ring he wears, their adventure would have been over before it began.

‘Transformers’ (2007)

Glen Whitmann is the tech expert who cracks the Decepticons’ communication code. He figures out the danger before anyone else in the government does. Thanks to his skills, the heroes understand what’s at stake and can coordinate with the military. Ultimately, the final showdown depends on the information Glen finds through his computer work.

‘Sex and the City’ (2008)

When Carrie Bradshaw is struggling, Louise from St. Louis steps in to help. She brings order to Carrie’s messy apartment, creating a system to get her life back on track. Louise even sets up a secure digital folder that ultimately helps Carrie and Big reconnect. In many ways, Carrie’s happy ending is thanks to Louise’s practical skills and caring support.

‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014)

When Steve Rogers goes on the run from S.H.I.E.L.D., Sam Wilson welcomes him into his home. Eager to help, Sam uses his military skills to provide crucial air support. As Falcon, he plays a key role in stopping the Helicarriers and saving countless lives during the final battle. Without Sam’s loyalty and strategic assistance, Captain America likely wouldn’t have survived.

‘The Martian’ (2015)

Rich Purnell is the brilliant scientist who figured out how to use gravity to help rescue Mark Watney. He worked tirelessly, even breaking rules, to double-check his calculations when NASA first doubted them. His innovative solution was crucial, enabling the Hermes crew to return to Mars and ultimately saving Watney. The entire rescue depended on his unique ability to find a solution others had overlooked.

‘Get Out’ (2017)

Rod Williams represents the audience’s perspective and is the only one who questions the strange behavior of the Armitage family. He relentlessly searches for his missing friend, Chris, even when the police dismiss his ideas. This dedication ultimately leads him to find Chris and rescue him from a terrifying situation. Rod is the perfect example of a loyal friend who solves the mystery simply by being observant and supportive.

We want to know: who’s a supporting character you think really helped save the day, and doesn’t get enough recognition? Let us know in the comments!

2025-12-06 15:47