10 Best Black Romantic Comedies of the 2010s
The 2010s gave Black romantic comedy its biggest stage yet. Ensemble casts, star-studded holiday releases and a wave of relationship films made the decade one of the most recognisable for the genre, with characters who felt like friends.
Many of these films are built around groups. Couples test each other’s advice, families gather for the holidays, and friends travel for a wedding that changes everything. The result is a set of stories that mix big laughs with real questions about love and commitment.
This list ranks ten of the best films released between 2010 and 2019. Each entry explains the premise, the central conflict and stakes, and why the film earned its place. We then look at what fans and critics value, who will enjoy it most and where to find it.
Ranking weighs the strength of the romance, the quality of the comedy, the chemistry of the cast and how well each film has aged. Some are lighter and more festive, while others take on relationship drama, so you can pick the mood that suits you.
Release years appear on each entry. Films from 2020 onwards are saved for another guide, and earlier titles belong to the 2000s list. Where a detail still needs confirming, the entry says so.
Many of these films share a recognisable cast of comedians and actors, so if you enjoy one, you will often find another familiar face in the next. That makes them a good choice for a group movie night.
The decade also shows how romantic comedy evolved. Films moved between the big studio release and streaming platforms, and the stories grew to include more varied relationships and more honest conversations about money, family and careers.
Streaming availability changes often and varies by region. Check your local services before you plan your viewing, and treat the availability notes in each entry as a starting point rather than a guarantee.
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1. Think Like a Man (2012)
Release date: 2012 | Theatrical film | Ensemble romantic comedy
Think Like a Man is based on Steve Harvey’s 2009 book, Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man, and follows four couples. Michael, a mama’s boy, is with Candace, a single mom. Jeremy, a non-committer, is with Kristen, who wants a ring. Dominic, a dreamer, is with Lauren, a woman who is her own man. Zeke, a player, is with Mya, the self-described 90 Day Rule Girl. Each of the women reads the book and relies on its advice. When the men discover this, they decide to use the book’s ideas on their partners, hoping to turn the tables. The scheme backfires and pulls the couples into further complications. The story moves between the couples, showing how each one reads the same situation in a different way. Its ensemble structure gives every character room to grow. The result is a lively romantic comedy about honesty, pride and learning to listen.
The central conflict is the friends’ clash over who has the right advice about love. The stakes include their relationships, their pride and the chance of finding a partner who truly fits.
The film is lively, funny and full of ensemble chemistry. Its mix of couples gives every character a moment to shine, and its sharp comic timing keeps the story bright.
Why it ranks here: Think Like a Man ranks first because its ensemble cast and comic energy make it the decade’s most recognisable romantic comedy.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value its strong ensemble cast, its sharp comedy and its playful take on dating, with each couple getting a moment to shine. Critics praised the humour, the soundtrack and the cast, especially Meagan Good, Romany Malco and Kevin Hart.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy ensemble comedies, dating stories and playful relationship advice.
Where to watch: Check your local rental and streaming services, as availability varies by region. Check IMDb for cast and production details.
2. Just Wright (2010)
Release date: 2010 | Theatrical film | Sports romantic comedy
Just Wright stars Queen Latifah as Leslie Wright, a physical therapist and devoted basketball fan who keeps hearing from men that she is only a friend. When she lets her impulsive godsister, Morgan Alexander, move into her home, Morgan sets her sights on Scott McKnight, a New Jersey Nets star whom Leslie once met at a gas station. Morgan wins his attention, and they become engaged, though Leslie has doubts. Scott then tears a knee ligament at the All-Star Game, which jeopardises his career. Morgan pressures Leslie to become his live-in therapist, but Morgan grows resentful and leaves him by letter. As Leslie helps Scott rebuild his strength and confidence, the two grow close through their shared love of basketball and music. Scott returns in time for the playoffs, and after the two spend a night together, Morgan arrives hoping to reconcile. Leslie, heartbroken, leaves, but Scott realises he loves her and chases her to Philadelphia. The film is a sports romance about friendship, rivalry and choosing the right partner.
The central conflict is Leslie’s professional commitment against a growing attraction to the man she is treating. The stakes include her career, his comeback and the relationship that could change both of their lives.
The film is warm, polished and romantic. Its sports setting and its natural chemistry between the leads give it an upbeat, feel-good tone.
Why it ranks here: Just Wright ranks second because it blends a grounded romance with a sports backdrop and a strong, likeable lead.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value the chemistry between Queen Latifah and Common, the upbeat tone and the portrait of a woman who puts her career first. Critics were mixed, and Roger Ebert gave the film three stars out of four.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy sports romance, feel-good comedy and grounded love stories.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region before you plan your watch. Check Wikipedia for background on the film.
3. About Last Night (2014)
Release date: 2014 | Theatrical film | Adult romantic comedy
About Last Night is a 2014 romantic comedy set in downtown Los Angeles that follows two couples. Danny, a restaurant-supply salesman, is still hung up on his ex, Alison, when his womanising friend Bernie sets him up on a double date. Danny meets Debbie, a friend of Bernie’s girlfriend, Joan, and they start a steady, conventional relationship. Bernie and Joan, meanwhile, have a volatile fling that keeps them antagonising each other. Months later, Danny and Debbie move in together, but their arguments grow more frequent, particularly over whether Danny is fully committed. After Danny loses his job, he starts bartending, and Alison reappears and flirts with him. After another fight at a New Year’s Eve party, Debbie breaks up with him and moves out. Both struggle to move on. Bernie and Joan rekindle their relationship. In the end, Bernie and Joan arrange for Danny and Debbie to run into each other while Danny is walking the dog they adopted together. They talk and agree to try again. It is a comedy about commitment, timing and the advice our friends give us.
The central conflict is the couples’ struggle to define what they want from each other after a night that changes everything. The stakes include their relationships, their friendships and the future they had planned.
The film is sharp, adult and frank. Its performances and its honest, funny dialogue give it a grown-up tone, and its look at modern romance feels fresh.
Why it ranks here: About Last Night ranks third because its adult, frank take on dating feels fresh and its cast delivers strong comic timing.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value the comedic chemistry between Kevin Hart and Regina Hall and the grown-up take on relationships. Critics generally gave it favourable reviews.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy adult romantic comedies and honest, character-led dialogue.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region before you watch. Check Wikipedia for background on the original film.
4. Jumping the Broom (2011)
Release date: 2011 | Theatrical film | Romantic comedy-drama
Jumping the Broom is a 2011 romantic comedy-drama directed by Salim Akil and set on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Sabrina Watson, the only child of wealthy parents Claudine and Greg, falls in love with Jason Taylor after a minor car accident. Five months later, Jason proposes, and Sabrina accepts. Their families struggle to get along, and Jason’s insecure mother, Pam, makes rude remarks and openly dislikes her. The central conflict emerges when Pam learns a family secret: Aunt Geneva is actually Sabrina’s birth mother, who gave her up as a teenager. Pam hints at the truth before the wedding, and Sabrina, hurt and confused, cancels the ceremony and drives away. Jason confronts his mother and asks the family to find her. Geneva explains that she had a relationship with Sabrina’s father in Paris, and that she later learned he was already married. Pam reconciles with Sabrina, and the wedding goes ahead. It is a family drama about belonging, secrets and the messy people who make up a family.
The central conflict is the clash between the families’ expectations, as each side tries to make the wedding its own. The stakes include the couple’s happiness, their families’ relationships and the future they are about to build together.
The film is warm, funny and full of family drama. Its wedding setting and its strong ensemble give it a lively, emotional energy.
Why it ranks here: Jumping the Broom ranks fourth because its wedding-weekend setting and family drama give it a warm, lively energy.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value its cultural themes, its ensemble cast and its celebration of a Black family wedding. Critics were mixed, praising the themes and cast but faulting the tone and predictability.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy wedding stories, family comedy and warm romantic drama.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region before you plan your watch.
5. Think Like a Man Too (2014)
Release date: 2014 | Theatrical film | Ensemble romantic comedy
Think Like a Man Too is set in Las Vegas, where a group of friends gather for the wedding of Michael and Candace. Each couple has its own problems. Cedric has run up $40,000 in charges on his wife Gail’s credit card. Zeke hesitates to commit to Mya. Lauren is being considered for a job in New York that would separate her from Dominic. Jeremy and Kristen are trying for a baby, though Jeremy has doubts about becoming a father. Bennett and Tish are working to rekindle their marriage. The central conflict is Michael’s overbearing mother, Loretta, who disapproves of the engagement and keeps interfering with the wedding. Cedric’s gambling and a night at a club lead to a brawl, and the men end up in jail with the wedding only hours away. In the end, Jeremy commits to fatherhood, and Zeke proposes to Mya. Candace persuades Michael to apologise to Loretta, and Cedric finds a new venue with help from an unexpected ally. Candace and Michael finally marry. It is a loud ensemble comedy about commitment and the friends who keep showing up.
The central conflict is the friends’ attempt to balance loyalty, romance and the temptations of a Vegas weekend. The stakes include their relationships, their friendships and the wedding that brings them together.
The film is loud, bright and playful. Its large ensemble and its comic set pieces keep the energy high from start to finish.
Why it ranks here: Think Like a Man Too ranks fifth because it keeps the energy of the first film while adding a fun Vegas setting.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value its large ensemble cast and the chemistry of the returning characters. Critics largely panned the sequel, though audiences gave it a strong CinemaScore.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy ensemble sequels, Vegas comedies and playful relationship stories.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region before you plan your watch.
6. The Perfect Match (2016)
Release date: 2016 | Theatrical film | Romantic comedy
The Perfect Match is a romantic comedy directed by Bille Woodruff. Terrence J plays Charlie “Mack” McIntyre, a playboy who believes relationships are dead. His sister, a therapist played by Paula Patton, tries to convince him otherwise, but he does not listen. His best friends bet him that if he stays with one woman for a month, he will fall in love. Confident that he is immune to love, Charlie accepts the wager and then meets Eva, a beautiful and mysterious woman played by Cassie Ventura. He persuades her into a casual affair, but the tables turn when Eva realises that he wants more from the relationship than he has let on. The film is built on a simple idea: a bet can turn into the real thing, and two people can see their own patterns in each other.
The central conflict is the couple’s struggle to trust each other while their pasts keep resurfacing. The stakes include their relationship, their confidence and the chance to start again.
The film is light, warm and easy to watch. Its gentle comedy and its focus on second chances give it a comforting tone.
Why it ranks here: The Perfect Match ranks sixth because it offers a warm, easy romance with a focus on second chances.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value its leads and its premise of a wager that becomes something real. Critics were largely negative, though audiences gave it a B CinemaScore and the film earned more than twice its budget.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy gentle romantic comedies and stories about second chances.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region before you plan your watch.
7. Nappily Ever After (2018)
Release date: 2018 | Netflix | Romantic comedy-drama
Nappily Ever After is a 2018 romantic comedy directed by Haifaa al-Mansour and based on Trisha R. Thomas’s novel. Violet Jones, played by Sanaa Lathan, is a successful advertising executive who has spent years straightening her natural hair to meet her mother’s standards of polish. Her father has been estranged from the family since quitting his job to become a model. Violet’s relationship with her doctor boyfriend, Clint, is stalling, and she meets Will Wright, a hairstylist, through his daughter, Zoe. A string of setbacks, including a hair mishap, a disastrous night out and Clint’s infidelity, leads Violet to shave her head. Her new look gives her confidence, and she starts dating Will. However, her mother’s condescension toward him at a Fourth of July party ends the relationship, and Violet loses a pitch and quits her job. Clint returns and proposes, and Violet accepts. At the engagement party, the pressure from Clint’s parents leaves her uneasy, so she walks away, removes her heels and jumps into the pool, and others join her. It is a warm comedy about identity, self-acceptance and choosing yourself.
The central conflict is Violet’s journey to accept herself as she falls for a man who sees her as she truly is. The stakes include her career, her confidence and the relationship she hopes to build.
The film is stylish, warm and emotional. Its honest look at self-image and its strong lead performance give it a memorable tone.
Why it ranks here: Nappily Ever After ranks seventh because its honest story about self-acceptance gives it emotional weight alongside its romance.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value its celebration of natural hair, Sanaa Lathan’s lead performance and its warm family storyline. The film holds a 67% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy grown-up romance, self-discovery and honest stories about image and confidence.
Where to watch: Netflix. Check availability in your region before you plan your watch.
8. Nobody’s Fool (2018)
Release date: 2018 | Theatrical film | Romantic comedy-drama
Nobody’s Fool is a 2018 romantic comedy written and directed by Tyler Perry. Danica, a successful marketing professional played by Tika Sumpter, has been dating Charlie, a man she met online a year ago but has never seen in person. When she collects her newly paroled sister, Tanya, played by Tiffany Haddish, from prison, Tanya moves into Danica’s apartment and becomes convinced that Charlie is a catfish. Tanya’s suspicions lead her to contact the reality show Catfish, and the truth comes out: Charlie is actually Lawrence, played by Chris Rock, who has been faking a disability. Danica lashes out at Tanya, who moves to their mother’s house. Meanwhile, Danica’s friendship with Frank, the owner of the coffee shop where Tanya works, turns romantic. Frank is in recovery and has served prison time, and Danica dismisses him because of his past. When Frank sees her leave work with Charlie, he ends their relationship, and Danica must win him back. The film is a comedy about online deception, second chances and the people we dismiss too quickly.
The central conflict is the characters’ struggle to trust one another after painful pasts. The stakes include their relationships, their families and the future they hope to build.
The film is warm and emotional, with a comic edge that keeps its drama light. Its focus on second chances gives it a hopeful feel.
Why it ranks here: Nobody’s Fool ranks eighth because its focus on second chances and trust gives it a hopeful, emotional core.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value Tiffany Haddish’s comedic energy, Chris Rock’s turn as the catfish and the chemistry between Tika Sumpter and Omari Hardwick. Critics mostly panned the film, though Haddish and Whoopi Goldberg earned some praise.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy comedy-drama about second chances and rebuilding trust.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region and confirm the premise against an official listing before publishing.
9. The Weekend (2018)
Release date: 2018 | Theatrical film | Romantic comedy
The Weekend is a 2018 romantic comedy written and directed by Stella Meghie. Zadie Barber, played by Sasheer Zamata, is an acerbic comedian who spends a weekend at an inn with people from her past. Her ex, Bradford Collins, is dating Margo Johnson, and Aubrey is another guest. Zadie becomes romantically entangled with Bradford, Margo and Aubrey during the getaway, and each new development makes the situation more awkward. Zadie’s mother, Karen Barber, is also part of the story. The film is a witty, quieter romance about self-respect, timing and what you want from love when old feelings return.
The central conflict is the characters’ attempt to keep their plans on track while their attraction grows. The stakes include their careers, their relationships and the choice they must make by the end of the weekend.
The film is brisk, light and playful. Its compact story and easy comedy give it a breezy feel.
Why it ranks here: The Weekend ranks ninth because its quick, eventful story and light tone make it an easy, enjoyable watch.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value Sasheer Zamata’s performance and the film’s witty dialogue. It holds an 87% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 23 reviews.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy short, breezy romantic comedies with a quick pace.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region and confirm the premise against an official listing before publishing.
10. Almost Christmas (2016)
Release date: 2016 | Theatrical film | Holiday ensemble comedy
Almost Christmas is a 2016 holiday comedy-drama written and directed by David E. Talbert. Retired engineer Walter Meyers is still grieving his wife, Grace, who died ten months earlier. Hoping to keep a traditional Christmas alive, he invites his four adult children to his house for five days together. The siblings bring their own troubles. Cheryl, a dentist, arrives with her husband, Lonnie, a former basketball star who begins an affair with a grocery worker named Jasmine. Christian, a congressional candidate, is pressured to help demolish a homeless shelter that his mother supported. Rachel, recently divorced, is studying to become a lawyer while struggling to support her daughter. Evan, a football player recovering from a shoulder injury, grows dependent on painkillers. Old rivalries flare. On Christmas Day, Evan learns that Walter plans to sell the family home, and he confronts his father, storms off and crashes his car. At dinner, Jasmine’s arrival exposes the affairs to the whole table. In the aftermath, Walter helps Evan face his grief, and the siblings begin to make peace. It is a holiday story about grief, family and holding together in a hard year.
The central conflict is the family’s attempt to keep their Christmas together while their personal lives pull them in different directions. The stakes include their relationships, their traditions and the bonds that hold them together.
The film is festive, warm and full of comic moments. Its large cast and its holiday setting give it a cosy, feel-good tone.
Why it ranks here: Almost Christmas ranks tenth because it is a festive ensemble comedy with warmth and strong comic moments, though it leans more family than romance.
Why fans and critics value it: Fans value its emotional warmth, its ensemble cast and its portrait of a family grieving together. Critics were mixed, finding it competent but unremarkable, while audiences responded more warmly.
Who should watch: Viewers who enjoy holiday ensemble comedies and warm, family-focused stories.
Where to watch: Check availability in your region before you plan your watch.
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Why the 2010s Still Feels Recognisable
The 2010s gave romantic comedy a sense of ensemble. Many films were built around groups of friends or families, so the romance sat alongside friendship, career and family stories.
That mix made the decade feel warm and sociable. Viewers could follow several couples at once, and the variety of relationships on screen felt closer to everyday life.
How to Choose Your First Watch
Start with your mood. For a group night with a big laugh, Think Like a Man is the place to begin. For a sports-tinged romance, Just Wright is a warm choice.
Think about the season. Almost Christmas and the holiday titles suit December, while Nappily Ever After and The Weekend work well for a quieter weekend.
Finally, check each platform before you plan the evening. Availability can change, so a quick check avoids surprises. Browse More Titles on Amazon while you plan your viewing.
Final Thoughts
The best Black romantic comedies of the 2010s mix big laughs with honest feelings. Whether you choose an ensemble comedy or a quiet romance, you will find characters who feel like people you know.
Which one will you watch first? Share your pick in the comments, tell us what we missed and let us know which film you would most like to see reviewed next.
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Explore This Amazon Offer for more titles to browse before you dive into the FAQs below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which 2010s Black romantic comedy is the best?
Think Like a Man ranks first here, for its ensemble cast and comic energy.
Is Just Wright a sports film?
It has a sports backdrop, but its focus is the romance between its two leads.
Is About Last Night a remake?
Yes. It is a remake of the 1986 film, which was based on David Mamet’s play.
Is Jumping the Broom a wedding film?
Yes. It follows a wedding weekend in which two families clash.
Which film is the most festive?
Almost Christmas is the most festive, with a holiday reunion at its heart.
Is Nappily Ever After based on a novel?
Yes. It is based on Trisha R. Thomas’s novel.
Are these films available to stream?
Availability varies by region and platform, so check your local services before you watch.
Why is Love & Basketball not on this list?
It was released in 2000, so it belongs to our 2000s guide.
Are there sequels on this list?
Yes. Think Like a Man Too continues the story of the first film.
Where can I find the full list of 2010s romantic comedies?
Each platform publishes its own catalogue, and reference sites such as IMDb list films by year.
For critic scores on the films in this guide, Metacritic is a useful place to check: Metacritic.
More Places to Find Great Movies and TV Shows
If you want to keep exploring, these trusted sites cover reviews, news and streaming guides:
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