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Celebrate the Season: 5 Beloved Black Holiday Films

By Karyn Cook


From hood classics to feel-good movies, there are many options for having fun with the family these holidays! 


"Black Nativity" (2013)


Photo via Phil Bray/Fox Searchlight Pictures


A modern retelling of Langston Hughes' 1961 play of the same name, this adaptation of the Nativity story features Black characters. Jacob Latimore plays Langston, a young boy sent from Baltimore to New York City after his mother (Jennifer Hudson) faces eviction. He stays with his relatives, played by Angela Bassett and Forest Whitaker. From gospel to traditional Christmas carols, "Black Nativity" is a story about family with many lessons learned along the way.


"Almost Christmas" (2016)


Photo via Quantrell D. Colbert


A flawed family reunites for their first Christmas after their matriarch's death. Full of joyous moments, tears, and scenes that will make you laugh with your whole belly. The modern cast features stars all generations will recognize, from Monique to DC Young Fly. Family drama and debates over who makes the best sweet potato pie will enthrall you in this film.


"Friday After Next" (2002)


Photo via New Line Cinema/Cube Vision/Avery Pix


The third installment in the Friday franchise is a hilarious story featuring the return of Ice Cube and Mike Epps as Craig and Day-Day, along with a variety of unique characters played by Katt Williams and Ricky Smiley. The two cousins come face to face with a Santa Claus-clad robber who steals their Christmas presents.


"The Preacher's Wife" (1996)


Photo via Buena Vista Pictures Distribution


Grammy winner Whitney Houston and Oscar winner Denzel Washington star alongside Emmy winner Courtney B. Vance in this film. Vance plays a Reverend who prays for divine intervention and receives an angel named Dudley (Washington). While attempting to mend the family, Dudley finds himself falling for Reverend Briggs' wife Julia (Houston). A remake of "The Bishop's Wife" from 1947, the film was nominated for three Oscars.


"Best Man Holiday" (2013)


Photo via Michael Gibson/Universal Studios


In this sequel to the classic 1999 film "The Best Man," an all-star ensemble cast featuring Morris Chestnut, Nia Long, Terrence Howard, Sanaa Lathan, Regina Hall and more reunites as a group of college friends over the holidays. From heartbreak to heartwarming moments, The Best Man Holiday explores the hardships of life, reunion, and forgiveness against a warm holiday backdrop.

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