Are There Black Films That Don't Deal with Racism? A Comprehensive Overview

The question of whether there are any Black films that do not address the topic of racism is more nuanced than it might first seem. While many mainstream Hollywood productions with Black protagonists or casts explore themes of racial discrimination and social inequality, there are several notable exceptions that take a different approach. Let's delve into some notable films that, despite their Black-centric narratives, manage to sidestep explicit discussions of racism.

The Wiz (1978)

The Wiz is one such classic example. This musical fantasy film adaptation of L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz set its story in a magical version of New York City with a predominantly Black cast. Notably, the film does not delve into race relations or any form of racial discrimination. Instead, it focuses on themes of self-discovery and embracing one's true identity. Featuring a young Michael Jackson in his pre-solo career, this film offers a joyous and uplifting narrative. For fans of cinematic magic and on-point choreography, The Wiz is a standout.

Coming to America (1988)

Coming to America is another standout film in this category. Set in the 1980s, it is a sharp and humorous take on Black culture, celebrating it rather than depicting racism. The film tells the story of Prince Akeem (played by Eddie Murphy), who travels from Africa to America to find a bride. While it doesn't shy away from cultural stereotypes, it handles them with a sardonic wit and a self-aware acknowledgment that often makes it feel more like a tribute than a critique. The film's finale, with the slogan "Soool Gloooow," is a cheeky nod to Jackson's iconic appearance in The Wiz. Although the film has been criticized as culturally insensitive by contemporary standards, its humorous take on Black stereotypes and unapologetic celebration of Black culture have made it a cult classic.

Bad Boys (1995)

Bad Boys is a prime example of a film that eschews racial tension in favor of an action-packed, entertaining storyline. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Martin Lawrence star in this high-octane crime drama filled with humor, heart, and praise-worthy performances. The plot revolves around two Miami police officers who team up to take down drug lords, but the film is characterized by fast-paced action sequences and witty dialogue. There's no discussion of racism or racial profiling; the film focuses instead on the friendship between the two main characters and their shared mission to maintain law and order. This action masterpiece is a testament to well-crafted, race-neutral thrills and is a must-watch for any fan of classic cop-action movies.

Space Jam (1996)

Space Jam is often criticized for whitewashing Michael Jordan and basketball in a film heavily marketed towards a predominantly white audience. However, the real star of the movie is its self-awareness and joyous celebration of Black culture. The film follows Michael Jordan and the Monstars, a basketball team consisting of Lego-themed characters, as they team up to help the Looney Tunes. Jordan's character, Bugs Bunny, and the other Looney Tunes engage in a sequence of high-energy, cultural references that embrace and play with stereotypes. While the film makes little effort to hide its crossover appeal, it does so with a lighthearted, fun-loving tone that often treads on the fine line between travesty and celebration. For many, the sheer entertainment value trumps any potential cultural insensitivity, making it a beloved and often revisited entry in the sports and animation genres.

Creed (2015)

Creed is a powerful and deeply emotional story that, while centered around the boxing world, is less about social issues and more about personal growth and family. Michael B. Jordan stars as Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed, portrayed by the late Sylvester Stallone, who was defeated by Muhammad Ali. The film focuses on Adonis' journey to become a boxer in his own right and how he seeks to honor his father's legacy. Despite its heavy themes, there is no explicit discussion of racism or racial discrimination. Instead, the film deals with more personal topics such as love, legacy, and the pursuit of one's own path. It's a deeply moving and inspiring story that continues the Creed franchise's legacy of human interest and raw emotion.

Into the Spiderverse (2018)

Into the Spiderverse is a groundbreaking animated film that manages to avoid discussing racism on its own while honoring the rich cultural heritage of its main character, Miles Morales. Set in a high-end high school setting, Miles avoids overt mentions of his race, particularly from his peers. The film is more about the adventure of Miles discovering his powers and the supporting cast from various alternate universes. While Miles’ ethnicity is acknowledged, the movie does not make a big deal about it. Instead, it focuses on the fantastic journey and personal growth of Miles, transforming him into a hero who can unite different dimensions. The movie's creators have been praised for their handling of race in this nuanced and intelligent way.

Closing Thoughts

As we conclude our exploration of films that avoid explicit discussions of racism, it becomes apparent that these films offer unique perspectives on Black culture and stories. Each of these films, in its own way, takes a stand against the typical narrative of racial struggle, focusing instead on broader themes of self-discovery, familial bonds, and the celebration of culture. By looking at these films, we gain insight into the versatility and richness of storytelling in the Black experience, suggesting that there is indeed value in storytelling that does not solely revolve around the struggle against racism but rather explores the broader spectrum of human experience.

Key Takeaways:

The Wiz - A musical fantasy focusing on self-discovery and identity. Coming to America - A humorous, self-aware exploration of Black culture without racial tension. Bad Boys - An action-packed film that avoids racial issues to focus on camaraderie and adventure. Space Jam - An animated sports film that embraces stereotypes with a lighthearted approach. Creed - A boxing drama that focuses on personal growth and legacy. Into the Spiderverse - An animated adventure that honors cultural heritage without overtly discussing race.