Movies That Let Black Characters Be Messy and Human (and We Loved It)

For a long time, movies haven’t shown Black characters with the same depth and realism as white characters. Often, they were either stereotypes or presented as flawless individuals, rather than complex people. Now, we’re seeing a change, with stories that allow Black main characters to be flawed, make mistakes, and grapple with difficult choices. These films feature characters who are relatable and compelling precisely because of their imperfections, brought to life by strong acting and truthful writing. The films that follow highlight the beauty of flawed humanity.

‘American Fiction’ (2023)

Thelonious “Monk” Ellison is a novelist frustrated by how the entertainment world relies on harmful stereotypes about Black people. He writes a satirical novel, using those same stereotypes to make a point, but it unexpectedly becomes incredibly popular. The film follows Monk as he grapples with personal loss, a new relationship, and the challenge of staying true to his principles. Director Cord Jefferson delivers a clever and insightful film that allows its main character to be both thoughtful and flawed.

‘The Forty-Year-Old Version’ (2020)

Radha is a playwright in her late thirties who feels stuck and disappointed with her career. She decides to try something completely new – becoming a rapper – hoping to express herself and challenge the established art scene in New York City. The film honestly portrays the challenges of chasing a dream as you get older, and how it feels to struggle with self-doubt. It’s a personal story that also offers a realistic look at the often-complicated relationship between artistic expression and making a living.

‘Malcolm & Marie’ (2021)

After a successful movie premiere, a couple returns home and gets into a deeply painful argument that lasts all night. They tear into each other, bringing up past hurts and difficult truths about their relationship. John David Washington and Zendaya give powerful, honest performances, showing the messy and often painful side of love and pursuing your dreams. The film cuts through everything else to focus solely on the intense emotions of these two complex people.

‘Zola’ (2020)

A waitress impulsively joins a stranger on a road trip to Florida, and things quickly spiral out of control. The weekend becomes a wild and dangerous blur of risky behavior and criminal activity, forcing her to fight for survival. Director Janicza Bravo’s film, based on a true social media story, is a gripping and unsettling look at how easily people can be exploited and the consequences of poor choices. The film doesn’t shy away from showing characters making bad decisions, and it doesn’t ask viewers to feel sorry for them.

‘Moonlight’ (2016)

In Miami, Chiron comes of age across three phases of his life, struggling with who he is and his sexuality. He deals with bullying and a strained relationship with his mother, who battles addiction, all while trying to find his place in the world. Director Barry Jenkins portrays Chiron as a quiet, introspective character with a deeply emotional journey. The film honestly depicts the challenges of growing up Black and queer in a tough setting, without offering simple solutions.

‘Tangerine’ (2015)

Sin-Dee Rella, a transgender woman working as a sex worker, embarks on a wild Christmas Eve journey across Los Angeles after discovering her boyfriend’s betrayal. She brings her close friend Alexandra along for the ride, and together they face a series of chaotic and confrontational encounters. The film is visually striking, mirroring the fast-paced lives of the characters and the strong connection between them. It portrays marginalized individuals as vibrant and flawed people, rather than simply as victims.

‘Top Five’ (2014)

Comedian Andre Allen is attempting to become a serious actor, all while navigating wedding plans with his reality TV star fiancée, which will be broadcast for everyone to see. During a day spent with a journalist, he’s forced to examine his history with alcoholism and his anxieties about losing his comedic touch. Written and directed by Chris Rock, the film is a thoughtful look at fame, portraying a flawed and uncertain main character. It blends humor with the often-difficult realities of a mid-life crisis.

‘Pariah’ (2011)

Alike leads a secret life, keeping her identity as a lesbian hidden from her religious family. The film follows her as she experiences the complexities of first love and friendships, and finds solace in writing poetry. It explores the struggle between being true to herself and wanting to satisfy her family’s expectations. While she makes some missteps in her search for connection, Alike eventually prioritizes her own happiness over what others want for her.

‘Baby Boy’ (2001)

Jody is a young dad who hasn’t fully embraced adult life and still relies on his mother. He’s caught between two relationships – the mother of his child and a new girlfriend – and also faces conflict with a dangerous neighbor. The film, directed by John Singleton, honestly portrays the difficulties many young men face in becoming responsible and mature, showing a flawed and sometimes frustrating main character. It offers a raw look at the pressures of being a man and the challenges of growing up.

‘Love & Basketball’ (2000)

Monica and Quincy have a long and complicated relationship, fueled by their shared love of basketball. They’re both ambitious and competitive, which often causes friction as they pursue their careers and deal with their own self-doubt. The film portrays Monica as a strong, driven woman – a role rarely seen for female characters in that era. Their biggest obstacles aren’t external forces, but their own pride and unfortunate timing.

‘The Wood’ (1999)

This film follows three friends as they travel to a wedding, sparking memories of their teenage years growing up together in Inglewood. Through funny and heartfelt flashbacks, we see how their shared awkward experiences and misadventures created a strong, lasting bond. The movie offers a realistic and touching portrayal of Black male friendship, showing the characters’ vulnerability and anxieties beneath a calm surface as they navigate coming-of-age.

‘The Best Man’ (1999)

Harper Stewart’s new novel, loosely based on his own life, reveals private details about his college friends right before a big wedding. This causes major problems within the group, bringing up past hurts and uncovering secret betrayals. The story follows a group of outwardly successful people who are still struggling with emotional maturity and a tendency to create drama. It shows how easily even the closest friendships can be destroyed by envy and lies.

‘Soul Food’ (1997)

When the mother of a close family falls into a coma, old conflicts between her daughters resurface. As they try to keep their weekly Sunday dinners going, secrets of infidelity and money problems come to light. The film honestly portrays the complicated relationships within families, showing how love, bitterness, and betrayal can all exist at the same time. Each family member adds to the drama while attempting to present a united front.

‘Eve’s Bayou’ (1997)

During a Louisiana summer, young Eve Batiste learns a shocking truth about her seemingly perfect, but unfaithful, father. This revelation throws her family into turmoil and pushes Eve to grapple with the difficult realities of adulthood. Directed by Kasi Lemmons, the film is a moody, Southern gothic story where memories are flawed and morality isn’t simple. The characters are driven by their wants and must face the repercussions of their choices.

‘Love Jones’ (1997)

Darius and Nina fall for each other, but their fear of getting too close and difficulty talking openly put their connection at risk. Set against the backdrop of Chicago’s art world, they cautiously explore a deeper relationship while still valuing their freedom. The film doesn’t rely on big, dramatic moments, instead focusing on the messy, uncertain reality of dating today. Both characters are allowed to be flawed, unsure of what they want, and hesitant to fully commit.

‘Set It Off’ (1996)

This thrilling movie follows four women, each struggling with hardship and injustice, who turn to bank robbery as a desperate way out. The film delves into the individual reasons behind their choices, showing how loss and pain can lead even well-intentioned people to break the law. As they continue their crimes, their friendship is strained, and the consequences become increasingly dangerous. The movie presents these women as complex characters, highlighting how societal pressures can push people to their limits.

‘Waiting to Exhale’ (1995)

This film follows four friends as they experience the ups and downs of love and loss, supporting each other through difficult times. They face challenges like infidelity and the complexities of single parenthood, all while hoping to find fulfilling relationships. Directed by Forest Whitaker, the story focuses on the emotional journeys of successful women who are still searching for happiness. The characters are given the freedom to express their feelings and make imperfect choices without being criticized.

‘Boomerang’ (1992)

Marcus Graham is a charming but womanizing marketing executive whose life is turned upside down when he starts working for a new boss who returns his usual tactics. For the first time, he finds himself heartbroken and questioning his shallow lifestyle. This romantic comedy flips the script by showing the consequences of Marcus’s behavior, forcing him to confront his flaws and learn to be truly vulnerable if he wants to find lasting love.

‘She’s Gotta Have It’ (1986)

Nola Darling is navigating relationships with three men, each of whom wants her to commit exclusively to him. However, Nola resists these expectations, determined to explore her own sexuality and live life on her own terms. Spike Lee’s first film boldly features a woman who openly embraces her desires, even when society tells her not to. Nola continues to resonate with audiences because she prioritizes her freedom and refuses to change who she is to please anyone.

Tell us which of these complex characters resonated with you the most in the comments.

2025-12-14 17:46