No matter the season, watching holiday movies can make you feel warm and fuzzy. One downside is that the cast of yuletide movies is predominantly white. However, Hollywood strived to create inclusive and diverse films, including this article’s 19 best black Christmas movies.
1. Jingle, Jangle (2020)
English 2h 2m IMDb
Director: David E. Talbert
Stars: Forest Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, Hugh Bonneville
This heartwarming musical has an uplifting story that appeals to the whole family. It is about the adventures of an oddball toymaker and his energetic granddaughter. The story will take you on an exciting journey to a magical world filled with fascinating creatures and things.
It showed how one mystical invention has the power to make everyone’s life better. The movie’s superb cast created an entertaining homage to classic musicals and touching holiday movies of our childhood. The talented John Legend wrote most of the music, making it a delight for the eyes and ears.
2. Kirk Franklin’s A Gospel Christmas (2021)
English 1h 27m IMDb
Director: Erica C. Sutherlin
Stars: emetria McKinney, Chaz Lamar Shepherd, Angela Birchett
This dramatic musical tells the story of Olivia, a pastor who finds love during the holiday season. During the town’s annual Winter Jamboree, she leads the church choir in getting ready and finds romance along the way. Those who enjoyed the movie saw the plotline as realistic and relatable.
The songs were written by Kirk Franklin, a famous gospel singer and choir director so expect a beautiful musical treat for the whole family. The film also includes many lessons about life, faith, and becoming yourself. Legendary singer and lead star Regine Bell revealed the importance of authenticity in one’s career and life.
3. Christmas Déjà Vu (2021)
English 1h 32m IMDb
Director: Christel Gibson
Stars: Jessica Nicole Brown, Tanya Chisholm, Alnisa Chislom
Glee’s Amber Riley stars in this holiday movie as Kandi. Due to her father’s death on Christmas Eve, she started to hate Christmas. The young lady lost her passion for singing and hit rock bottom on the 10th anniversary of her father’s death. She was contemplating ending her life when an angel in disguise intervened.
It’s a charming film that highlights how our life choices in the past can affect our future. The movie touches on the classic life lesson about how happiness is a choice. It’s a great movie to watch with family, especially with teenagers starting to find their voice in this world.
4. Almost Christmas (2016)
English 1h 51m IMDb
Director: David E. Talbert
Stars: Kimberly Elise, Omar Epps, Danny Glover
This star-studded film set in Birmingham, Alabama, features Danny Glover and Gabrielle Union. It is about a dysfunctional family being together for Christmas after a devastating loss. The father invites his children to celebrate the holidays; however, the supposed joyful gathering turns into a chaotic mess.
It may have the usual family Christmas theme of families not getting along during the holidays. However, the director brought his flair for comedic timing and entertaining antics. In the end, it offered a positive message on the power of family legacy, forgiveness, and closeness.
5. The Best Man Holiday (2013)
English 2h 3m IMDb
Director: Malcolm D. Lee
Stars: Monica Calhoun, Morris Chestnut, Melissa De Sousa
When five college friends reunited after fifteen years, old relationships and controversies reignited. They realized so much has changed in their lives, and the Christmas gathering has proved it. Many fans of the movie’s prequel, The Best Man, found the sequel equally entertaining.
It will bring you on a roller coaster of emotions. You’ll laugh, cry, and make you miss your old friends even more. The ensemble cast brought their A-game and complemented each other’s acting talents. It has a dynamic storyline that shows the meaning of friendship, family, and the true spirit of the holidays.
6. Throwback Holiday (2018)
English 1h 28m IMDb
Director: Trey Haley
Stars: Jennifer Freeman, Robert Ri’chard, Rhyon Nicole Brown
In a classic tale of do-overs, this movie revolves around Jacqueline, a wife trapped in an unhappy marriage. In the course of re-thinking her life, she wished she could go back to high school. During Christmas, she wakes up and realizes she’s back in high school. It’s her chance to make everything right and be finally happy.
This movie is good for you if you’re looking for entertainment mixed with escapism. You’ll take a trip down memory lane and bring back high school memories. Those who have watched recommend watching until after the credits for some surprises.
7. Merry Liddle Christmas Baby (2021)
English 1h 24m IMDb
Director: Kelly Fyffe-Marshall
Stars: Carolyn Adair, Thomas Cadrot, Jaime M. Callica
Fans of Destiny’s Child would be delighted to see Kelly Rowland’s acting chops. She plays Jacquie, a soon-to-be mom preparing for the arrival of her baby. Her sister, Treena, is also planning on adopting a child. As the family expands in several ways, a crazy yet fun Christmas will ensue. It’s a third installment to the Liddle movie franchise, so fans expect more from it.
Fortunately, it did not disappoint. It’s best to watch the first two movies to give you more context; otherwise, it can get confusing. However, it still has the same heartwarming family dynamics as the first two films.
8. A Holiday Chance (2021)
English 1h 50m IMDb
Director: Jamal Hill
Stars: Nafessa Williams, Sharon Leal, Vanessa Bell Calloway
A tragic family event during the Christmas season forced two sisters to come together and help restore their business. Setting aside their life-long rivalry to salvage the multi-million dollar family venture and peace in the family was difficult. It’s a refreshing watch since it veered away from stereotypes and holiday tropes.
It showcases people of color as successful and powerful-something you don’t usually see in past films. It’s a well-written movie that will appeal to your various emotions-happy, sad and hopeful. The soundtrack, including songs by Cece Peniston, perfectly ties the film together.
9. Last Holiday (2006)
English 1h 52m IMDb
Director: Wayne Wang
Stars: Queen Latifah, LL Cool J, Timothy Hutton
Queen Latifah plays Georgia Byrd, a woman who has been doing the same routine all her life. The department store clerk hasn’t taken a break for many years. When Georgia found out she only had three weeks to live, she withdrew her savings and checked into a luxurious hotel in the Czech Republic.
There, she enjoyed the pleasure of leisure, good food, and good company. Fans commend this wholesome movie for inspiring people to live their life to the fullest. It shows how important it is not to worry about the future and enjoy the present moment.
10. This Christmas (2007)
English 1h 57m IMDb
Director: Preston A. Whitmore II
Stars: Regina King, Columbus Short, Delroy Lindo
This heartwarming family film features an all-star cast including Idris Elba, Regina King, and Chris Brown. The family matriarch gathered all her adult children to spend the holidays at her home. It’s been four years since their last get-together, so expect some signs of strains and secrets.
Each one brings a dilemma to the table. Despite the drama, this movie showcases some,e light and funny moments. It’s a feel-good movie worth watching every time the holiday season comes along. The soundtrack is also an excellent companion to lift your holiday spirits and inspire you to spread Christmas cheer.
11. Christmas Belles (2019)
English 1h 25m IMDb
Director: Terri J. Vaughn
Stars: Raven Goodwin, DomiNque Perry, Omar Gooding
Two best friends in their thirties have heard non-stop about how they need a man in their lives. Along came a handsome pastor who graced their town’s Christmas festivities. Both ladies attempt to get the bachelor’s attention leading to hilarious results.
When things become too messy, their families intervene to remind them of the true spirit of the holiday season. This movie is one of the holiday films that you must watch for yearly viewing. The chemistry, friendship, and laughter shared by the leads were genuine. Watching it with your best friend for a delightful experience would be great.
12. Our Christmas Journey (2021)
English 1h 24m IMDb
Director: Kevin Fair
Stars: Holly Robinson Peete, Aloma Wright, Graham Verchere
This movie is a cinematic breakthrough by being the first Hallmark movie discussing autism. It tells the story of a single mom and how she deals with the challenges of having a special needs child. She also has to manage her feelings when her ex-husband visits for Christmas. A great thing about this film is that an autistic actor portrayed the son’s role.
It also shows the importance of valuing love and relationships and keeping the faith during difficult times. Parents, especially kids with special needs, were delighted to find a relatable movie.
13. Twas the Chaos Before Christmas (2019)
English 1h 23m IMDb
Director: Terri J. Vaughn
Stars: Cynthia Kaye McWilliams, Sherri Shepherd, Affion Crockett
Two families with opposite personalities booked the same vacation home for the holidays. No one wants to budge, so they’re forced to live under one roof for a few days. As the title implies, chaos ensues as both families try to enforce their yuletide traditions.
It’s a light and entertaining movie that’s fit for all ages. The lead actors were relatable, and they all shared familiar chemistry. It’s like watching someone you know. It will make you think about what you’ll do if you’re in the same situation.
14. The Christmas Doctor (2020)
English 1h 24m IMDb
Director: Kevin Fair
Stars: Holly Robinson Peete, Adrian Holmes, Fred Henderson
This heartwarming holiday movie tells the story of a traveling locum doctor assigned to a small town. She finds love and romance amidst the busyness of her life serving people in the community. The film has clear and crisp visuals making it a joy to watch. Meanwhile, the festive locations made it a treat for the eyes.
Holly Robinson Peete gave superb acting and gave the right amount of nuances to the character. Her chemistry with onscreen partner Adrian Holmes made the screen light up. Even the supporting cast provided a refreshing touch to the movie. It stayed clear of the usual cheesy Hallmark movie dialogue and sentimental value.
15. A Christmas Miracle (2019)
English 1h 23m IMDb
Director: Tibor Takács
Stars: Tamera Mowry-Housley, Brooks Darnell, Kendall Cross
Emma is a magazine writer searching for a Christmas miracle for her article. Her boss steals her idea, so she’s scrambling to find the perfect topic to write about. With the help of her handsome photographer and son, they went around town during the holidays for the best story.
The lead actress Tamera Mowry gave such a sweet and inspiring performance. She gave life and energy to the holiday film. If you want to enjoy Christmas romance and family togetherness, this is the movie to watch. The characters and the storyline were all in harmony, making this a film for the top of your list.
16. Christmas Everlasting (2018)
English 1h 25m IMDb
Director: Ron Oliver
Stars: Tatyana Ali, Dondré T. Whitfield, Dennis Haysbert
Lucy Toomey, played by Hallmark movie favorite Tatyana Ali, is a hotshot New York lawyer. She was about to get a promotion when her special needs sister passed away. Lucy had to return to her hometown to manage her estate and attend the funeral. Her stay was full of surprises, especially when she met her ex-boyfriend.
This movie never failed to tug at the heartstrings. It reveals the importance of making time for your family despite career demands. Sometimes your loved ones need to take drastic measures to make you realize the value of life and love.
17. The Kid Who Loved Christmas (1990)
English 1h 58m IMDb
Director: Arthur Allan Seidelman
Stars: Cicely Tyson, Michael Warren, Sammy Davis Jr.
This heartwarming holiday movie tells the story of Reggie, an orphan boy who finally gets adopted. However, the adoption agency decided that the father wasn’t a suitable choice since he’s always traveling for work. He goes to the department store Santa to wish for a miracle.
This classic movie is the last film of Sammy Davis Jr. It’s such a touching story that shows the value of family, love, and resilience. Be prepared to laugh, cry, get angry, and be happy all at the same time.
18. Fat Albert Christmas Special (1977)
English 22m IMDb
Director: Hal Sutherland
Stars: Bill Cosby(voice), Jan Crawford(voice), Gerald Edwards(voice)
Fat Albert has become a TV staple during the 70s. Kids who grew up watching it will surely enjoy w this Christmas movie special. It’s a story of how Fat Albert and his gang staged a nativity production in their junkyard clubhouse. For parents looking to share a nostalgic moment with their kids, this is one great movie to watch.
It’s short and light, so it balances all the holiday rush. This animated movie sure packs a lot of laughs and heartwarming moments. It’s perfect over some hot cocoa and cookies with the family.
19. Dear Secret Santa (2013)
English 1h 28m IMDb
Director: Peter Sullivan
Stars: Tatyana Ali, Bill Cobbs, Jordin Sparks
This romantic comedy shares the story of Jennifer, a workaholic banker who comes home for Christmas. During her stay, she started getting letters from a secret admirer. The letters were coming from a neighbor who is also her unrealized love.
However, Jack died three years ago in a car accident. This movie is full of twists and turns and comedic moments, making it entertaining from start to finish. It’s not the typical boy meets girl trope. It also tells a beautiful story about life and death without all the heaviness.
Summary
The film industry has embraced inclusion and diversity, as shown in this article’s 19 best black Christmas movies. Family and holiday spirit themes will resonate regardless of ethnicity and beliefs. The yuletide season will always be about love, understanding, and acceptance.
