Having a horror or thriller created by a Black filmmaker is still very few and far in between. Now, having a Black actor in these films have increased over the years. The relationship between Black people and horror films has not always been friendly. In early history, there was the negative use of Blackface and other racially offensive characters in shows and movies. In modern films, there is usually one Black actor in the cast. They usually died in a non culturally realistic way. When it comes to horror films created by Black filmmakers, they often come at a needed time. There goal is to deliver a message. Today, I want to highlight some Black horror films as we go start the week leading into Halloween.
- Blacula (1972): Blaxploitation in the 1970’s became something of a revolution for Black creatives. This film introduced horror to the genre. The start of the film takes place 1780. We meet a Black Prince and his wife. They go to Transylvania to meet with Dracula for help to end the slave trade. The Prince is then bitten and his wife is killed by Dracula. Given the name Blacula. He is then placed in a coffin. Next, the film goes to 1970’s Los Angeles. Blacula’s coffin is opened leading to his first victims. We then see a tale of love and death.
- Tales from the Hood (1995): A film that presents different tales of issues affecting the Black community. Subjects include domestic violence, police brutality, gang violence, and political racism. With the use of a funeral director to tell the story to 3 young men, we get an additional message at the end.
- Scary Movie (2000): A horror comedy from the Wayans family that spoofs some of the fan favorite horror movies of the past decade. As I mentioned before, most horror movies features one Black actor who often dies in scenarios that are not culturally realistic. In this film you also see this with the White characters.
- Get Out (2017): In this Jordan Peele film, we see a young Black man visiting the family home of his White girlfriend for the first time. What we see after is the hidden agenda of this family. We see how characteristics that are stereotypical of Black people becomes an asset for others. This then leads to exploitation and the silencing of their voice.
- Sinners (2025): A film that uses vampires to depict racism in the deep South in the 1930’s. With the display of Black culture using music and dance we see what was popular during that time and how what was then has influenced so much today across different cultures.
With a few days left in October to enjoy the Halloween season. Exploring these films can be an activity to engage in. Maybe you some all of these movies or maybe you have not. Take a look at these films and enjoy the messages they present.