12 Must-Watch Films by Black Directors to Stream This Winter
- Joao Nsita
- 17 hours ago
- 11 min read
As the winter frost settles in and the days grow shorter, there is a distinct shift in our cultural appetite. We trade the frantic energy of summer blockbusters for something deeper, warmer, and more resonant. The "winter watch" is a sacred ritual—a time for curling up under plush blankets, lighting a candle that smells like amber and mahogany, and getting lost in stories that reflect the rich tapestry of human emotion.
In late 2025, the trend cycle on TikTok and Pinterest has converged on a specific, powerful aesthetic: "Black Cinematic Excellence meets Cozy Luxury." We are seeing a surge in appreciation for films that not only showcase the visionary talent of Black directors but also fit the mood of the season—whether that’s the heart-pounding thrill of a Ryan Coogler masterpiece or the soul-warming nostalgia of a David E. Talbert classic. This isn't just about watching a movie; it's about curating a vibe. It's about the "Soft Life" aesthetic extending to our media consumption, prioritizing films that are visually stunning, emotionally intelligent, and culturally significant.
From groundbreaking new releases that dominated the 2025 box office to timeless holiday favorites that feel like a warm hug, this list curates twelve essential films directed by Black filmmakers. These are the movies that will define your winter streaming queue, offering everything from high-octane action to tender family dramas. So, grab your favorite mug, settle in, and prepare to be transported.
We hope you find this curated list inspiring for your next movie night! If you enjoy our content and want to support independent writers, please consider supporting our work with a small donation here: [Donate to That Love Podcast]. Your support helps us continue to create joyful and informative content.
12. Sinners (2025)
Director: Ryan Coogler Where to Stream: Max
The Vibe: A southern gothic vampire horror that oozes atmosphere, tension, and style.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Ryan Coogler has returned to the director's chair with a vengeance, delivering what critics are calling the most stylish horror film of the decade. Set in 1930s Mississippi, Sinners stars Michael B. Jordan in a dual role as twin brothers returning to their hometown, only to find a sinister, supernatural force waiting for them. This isn't just a horror movie; it's a masterclass in atmosphere. The winter months are the perfect time for this kind of chilling, high-stakes storytelling. The film taps into the "Southern Gothic" trend sweeping Pinterest, with its moody lighting, period costumes, and deep, rich color palette. It’s scary, yes, but in a way that feels sophisticated and deeply rooted in folklore. It’s the perfect film to watch with the lights off and a storm raging outside.
Pair with: A bowl of our Deliciously Hearty Italian Pasta Fagioli. The warmth of this soup is the perfect counterpoint to the chills you'll get from the screen.
11. The Old Guard 2 (2025)
Director: Victoria Mahoney Where to Stream: Netflix
The Vibe: High-octane action with a deep, centuries-spanning emotional core.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Taking the reins from Gina Prince-Bythewood, Victoria Mahoney has delivered a sequel that expands the mythology of our favorite immortal mercenaries in breathtaking ways. The film continues the story of Andy (Charlize Theron) and Nile (KiKi Layne), delving deeper into the burden of immortality and the bonds of found family. For winter viewing, this film offers that perfect blockbuster escapism. It’s slick, fast-paced, and visually spectacular, but Mahoney brings a distinct, character-driven focus that elevates the action. It fits perfectly into the "Dark Action" aesthetic—moody, intense, and incredibly cool. Watching Nile step fully into her power is the kind of inspirational energy we all need to carry us into the new year.
External Link: Check out the cast interviews and behind-the-scenes footage on Netflix's Tudum to see how Mahoney approached this massive sequel.
10. Mufasa: The Lion King (2024)
Director: Barry Jenkins Where to Stream: Disney+
The Vibe: A sweeping, majestic epic that feels like a Shakespearean tragedy set against the golden savannah.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Barry Jenkins, the visionary behind Moonlight, brings his signature poetic realism to the Pridelands. This isn't just a "live-action" prequel; it's a deep, emotional exploration of brotherhood, legacy, and destiny. Winter is a time for family, and this film creates a beautiful bridge between generations. It explores the origins of Mufasa, an orphan who rises to be king, and his complex relationship with Scar (Taka). Jenkins uses the photorealistic technology to create frames that are works of art—sunsets that bleed into the horizon and snow-capped mountains that feel tangible. It’s a visual feast that warms the soul, perfect for a Sunday afternoon watch with the whole family.
Pair with: A plate of Easy & Vibrant Jell-O Cookies for a fun, colorful snack that kids and adults will love while watching this animated masterpiece.
9. The Piano Lesson (2024)
Director: Malcolm Washington Where to Stream: Netflix
The Vibe: A powerful, intense chamber drama that crackles with the energy of a live stage play.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Adapted from August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, this film is a family affair, directed by Malcolm Washington and starring his brother John David Washington and Samuel L. Jackson. Set in 1936 Pittsburgh during the aftermath of the Great Depression, it centers on a brother and sister fighting over a family heirloom: a piano carved with the faces of their enslaved ancestors. The film is intimate and enclosed, set largely within a single house, making it an ideal "cozy" watch for winter. The performances are electric, the dialogue is lyrical, and the themes of legacy and memory resonate deeply during the holiday season, a time when we naturally reflect on our own family histories.
Pair with: The comfort of our Deliciously Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a heavy, emotional drama.
8. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)
Director: Julius Onah Where to Stream: Disney+
The Vibe: A gritty, political thriller masquerading as a superhero blockbuster.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Julius Onah brings a grounded, tense energy to Sam Wilson’s (Anthony Mackie) first cinematic outing as Captain America. This film leans heavily into the spy-thriller genre, reminiscent of The Winter Soldier, but with a distinct focus on the complexities of being a Black man wearing the stars and stripes. For the winter season, which often feels like a time for reflection and looking forward, Sam’s journey to define his own legacy is incredibly powerful. The action is hard-hitting, but it’s the quiet moments of leadership and moral grappling that make this film stand out. It’s a blockbuster with a brain and a heart, perfect for when you want spectacle that doesn't insult your intelligence.
External Link: Read the full critical breakdown and audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes to see why this film has been hailed as a return to form for the MCU.
7. One of Them Days (2025)
Director: Lawrence Lamont Where to Stream: Netflix
The Vibe: A hilarious, chaotic, and incredibly relatable buddy comedy that feels like a modern classic.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Sometimes, in the dead of winter, you just need to laugh. One of Them Days, starring Keke Palmer and SZA, is the remedy to the winter blues. The film follows two roommates who have 24 hours to come up with rent money to avoid eviction. It’s a classic setup executed with fresh, vibrant energy. Lawrence Lamont captures the specific, chaotic energy of trying to survive in the modern gig economy while maintaining a friendship. The chemistry between Palmer and SZA is electric—they feel like real friends, with all the bickering and love that entails. It’s a film that celebrates Black joy and resilience in the face of absurdity. It’s already trending on TikTok for its quotable lines and Y2K-inspired fashion.
Pair with: Our Turkey & Sun-dried Tomato Pinwheel Sandwiches. They are the perfect easy, handheld snack for a movie that moves a mile a minute.
6. Blitz (2024)
Director: Steve McQueen Where to Stream: Apple TV+
The Vibe: A sweeping, historical epic that is as harrowing as it is beautiful.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Steve McQueen (12 Years a Slave) turns his lens to World War II London in this breathtaking drama. The film follows a young boy’s perilous journey home during the German bombing campaign. McQueen is a master of visual storytelling, and Blitz is full of images that sear themselves into your memory—the fiery glow of a city burning at night, the claustrophobic safety of the Underground. While it’s a war movie, it’s fundamentally a story about a mother and son trying to find their way back to each other. It’s a heavy watch, but a deeply rewarding one, perfect for a long winter evening when you have the time to truly engage with a piece of cinema art.
Pair with: The rich, deep flavors of our Easy Slow-Cooker BBQ Beef Short Ribs will match the hearty, substantial nature of this film.
5. On Becoming a Guinea Fowl (2025)
Director: Rungano Nyoni Where to Stream: Max
The Vibe: A dark, surreal comedy-drama that is unlike anything else you’ll watch this year.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Rungano Nyoni (I Am Not a Witch) returns with this Cannes-acclaimed masterpiece. The film explores the secrets of a middle-class Zambian family following the death of an uncle. Nyoni has a unique ability to blend tragedy with deadpan humor and surreal imagery. The film is a stunning visual experience, using the landscape and costume design to tell a story about silence, complicity, and liberation. It’s a film for the cinephile who wants to be challenged and surprised. It fits perfectly into the "Arthouse Winter" trend—films that are intellectually stimulating and visually distinct.
External Link: Visit the A24 Films website to explore more unique, director-driven films that push the boundaries of storytelling like this one.
4. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
Director: David E. Talbert Where to Stream: Netflix
The Vibe: A steampunk-infused musical spectacular that radiates pure joy and magic.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: No winter watchlist is complete without this modern classic. David E. Talbert created a world that is entirely new yet feels instantly timeless. The story of Jeronicus Jangle, an inventor who rediscovers his magic through his granddaughter, is a celebration of Black innovation, joy, and family. The costumes are a riot of Victorian-meets-Afrofuturism, the sets are lavish and warm, and the music is infectious. It is the ultimate "Cozy Christmas" movie. Watching this film feels like sitting by a fireplace while snow falls outside—it warms you from the inside out.
Pair with: A slice of Easy & Delicious Berry Chantilly Cake. This festive, sweet dessert is the perfect match for the sugary, magical world of Jingle Jangle.
3. Almost Christmas (2016)
Director: David E. Talbert Where to Stream: Peacock / Rent on Prime Video
The Vibe: The definitive dysfunctional family holiday comedy that hits every single emotional note.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Before Jingle Jangle, David E. Talbert gave us Almost Christmas, a film that captures the chaos of a family gathering better than almost any other. The Meyers family gathers for their first Christmas since the death of their matriarch, and the result is a mix of grief, hilarity, and healing. The cast is legendary—Danny Glover, Gabrielle Union, Mo'Nique—and their chemistry is palpable. It’s a film that allows you to laugh at the absurdity of family drama while crying at the genuine love that holds them together. It’s a staple of the "Black Holiday Classics" canon and a mandatory rewatch every December.
Pair with: A big, comforting bowl of The Ultimate 'Marry Me Chicken' Soup. It’s soul food in a bowl, just like this movie is soul food for the eyes.
2. The Best Man Holiday (2013)
Director: Malcolm D. Lee Where to Stream: Peacock
The Vibe: A glossy, emotional rollercoaster that celebrates friendship, love, and the bittersweet nature of time passing.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Few sequels surpass their originals, but The Best Man Holiday does just that. Reuniting the cast of the 1999 classic, this film brings the friends together for a Christmas weekend that changes everything. It is a masterclass in ensemble acting, balancing multiple storylines with grace and depth. The film looks incredible—the winter fashion, the luxurious mansion setting—making it total eye candy. But it’s the emotional third act that cements its legendary status. It’s a film that reminds us to cherish our friends and the time we have with them. It is the ultimate "Group Chat" movie—you’ll want to text your best friends immediately after watching.
Pair with: Our Easy Crispy Chicken Milanese. It’s an elegant, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a special occasion, just like this reunion movie.
1. Love & Basketball (2000)
Director: Gina Prince-Bythewood Where to Stream: Max / Hulu
The Vibe: The greatest romance of a generation, spanning decades, seasons, and emotions.
Why It’s a Must-Watch: While not explicitly a "holiday" movie, the multi-decade spanning narrative of Love & Basketball features beautifully shot winter sequences and a depth of emotion that feels perfect for the reflective nature of the season. Gina Prince-Bythewood’s debut is a masterpiece. It treats the ambition of its female lead, Monica (Sanaa Lathan), with the same reverence as her romantic life. The chemistry between Lathan and Omar Epps is timeless. As we head into 2026, the Y2K Nostalgia trend is at its peak, and this film is the holy grail of that aesthetic. It’s comforting, it’s passionate, and it’s a reminder of the enduring power of love. It is a film that you can watch a hundred times and still feel every beat.
Pair with: The Ultimate Pumpkin Pasta Bake with Burnt Butter and Sage. This dish is warm, nostalgic, and a little bit elevated—just like this classic film.
Conclusion
The winter of 2025/2026 is a season for storytelling that matters. These twelve films, helmed by some of the most talented Black directors in history, offer a window into worlds both familiar and fantastical. They allow us to explore the depths of horror, the heights of joy, and the complexities of the human heart, all from the comfort of our living rooms. Whether you are looking for the latest blockbuster or a comforting classic, this list is your roadmap to a season filled with cinematic magic. So dim the lights, press play, and let these visionary filmmakers take you on a journey.
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FAQs
1. Are all these films available to stream right now? Most of the films listed are available on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Max, and Disney+ as of Winter 2025. Some newer releases like Sinners or Captain America: Brave New World will be hitting streaming services shortly after their theatrical windows, typically within 45-90 days.
2. What makes a movie "cozy" for winter? A cozy movie typically features warm aesthetics (think fireplaces, snow, knitwear), lower stakes or comforting resolutions, and themes of family, love, or nostalgia. Films like The Best Man Holiday or Jingle Jangle perfectly fit this vibe.
3. I'm not a fan of horror. Is Sinners too scary? Sinners is a gothic horror, meaning it relies heavily on atmosphere and tension rather than just jump scares. However, it is intense. If you prefer to avoid scares entirely, stick to the dramas and comedies on this list like The Piano Lesson or One of Them Days.
4. Can I watch The Old Guard 2 without seeing the first one? While you can enjoy the action, it is highly recommended to watch the first The Old Guard (also on Netflix) to understand the character dynamics and the mythology of their immortality.
5. Why are there no Tyler Perry movies on this list? While Tyler Perry is a prolific Black director with many films, this list focused on a specific mix of critical darlings, new blockbusters, and specific holiday classics. However, A Madea Christmas is always a solid option for fans of his work!
6. Is Mufasa: The Lion King live-action or animated? It uses the same photorealistic computer-generated animation technology as the 2019 The Lion King remake. It looks like live-action but is technically animated.
7. Where can I find more recipes to pair with these movies? You can find a huge collection of comfort food recipes perfect for movie nights right here on our website under the Food Recipes section.
8. Are these films suitable for children? Mufasa, Jingle Jangle, and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (if you watch it!) are great for kids. Sinners, The Old Guard 2, and One of Them Days are rated for mature audiences. Always check the MPAA rating before viewing with children.
9. How can I support Black filmmakers beyond watching these movies? Follow them on social media, buy tickets for their theatrical releases (opening weekend numbers matter!), and engage with their content online. Recommending their films to friends and family is also a huge help.
10. Will there be a Best Man 3? The story continued in The Best Man: The Final Chapters, a limited series on Peacock that wrapped up the storylines for the beloved characters. It serves as a long-form sequel to the two films.
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