Black romantic comedy films have been a staple in Hollywood for years. From the classic ‘Coming to America’ to ‘The Best Man Holiday’, black romantic comedies often provide a unique look into the lives of black couples in love. Some of these films examine how relationships between black couples often differ from those between couples of other races.
They also often provide an opportunity to show the complexities of African-American culture and the difficulties that come with being an interracial couple in a predominantly white society. Ultimately, these films serve as a way to bridge the gap between cultures and create a deeper understanding between different races.
Here’s a list of the top eleven romcoms in no particular order.
The Best Man (2010)
The Best Man is one of the most beloved black romantic comedies. Directed by Malcolm D. Lee, it follows the story of a group of college friends who reunite for the wedding of the oldest, Lance (Morris Chestnut). As the wedding approaches, tensions rise between the old friends as secrets from the past start to surface. It is a heartwarming story about friendships and relationships that shows how complicated life can be regarding matters of the heart.
Think Like a Man (2012)
Think Like a Man is a romantic comedy based on the book by comedian Steve Harvey. The movie follows four couples tackling the complexities of dating, relationships, and marriage in the modern world. It revolves around the concept of how men and women think differently and how to understand each other better. The movie provides hilarious insight into men’s and women’s minds, making it enjoyable for those looking for a light-hearted romantic comedy.
Just Wright (2010)
Just Wright stars Queen Latifah and Common. It follows Leslie Wright (Latifah), a physical therapist who falls in love with NBA star Scott McKnight (Common). Leslie helps Scott heal an injury, and as they spend more time together, they develop feelings for each other. The movie follows the couple as they face challenges that come with being in a relationship, such as balancing their professional aspirations and romantic relationships.
Daddy’s Little Girls (2007)
Daddy’s Little Girls stars Gabrielle Union and Idris Elba. The movie follows Monty (Elba), a hard-working mechanic who is trying to make a better life for his three daughters. He meets Julia (Union), a successful lawyer, who helps him fight for custody of the girls. At the same time, they also develop feelings for each other. This movie is a heartwarming story of family, love, and redemption. It shows how there is still hope and a chance for happiness, even in difficult times.
Deliver Us From Eva (2003)
Deliver Us From Eva stars LL Cool J and Gabrielle Union. The film follows the story of Ray (LL Cool J), a man hired to keep Eva (Union), his best friend’s meddlesome sister, occupied. As Ray and Eva become close, they realise they are falling in love. This movie is an entertaining look into the complexities of relationships and how they can often exceed our expectations.
Brown Sugar (2002)
Brown Sugar stars Taye Diggs and Sanaa Lathan. The movie follows two childhood friends, Sidney (Diggs) and Dre (Lathan), who have grown up together and are now successful in their respective fields. As they are reunited and spend more time together, they develop romantic feelings for each other. However, their career paths and personal issues threaten to keep them apart.
Love & Basketball (2000)
Love & Basketball is a classic black romantic comedy directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood. It follows the story of Quincy McCall (Omar Epps) and Monica Wright (Sanaa Lathan), who are both passionate basketball players and childhood friends. As they grow up, they find themselves competing against each other in the sport and their relationship. The movie follows their journey of self-discovery and love as they learn to navigate their feelings for each other and their respective dreams.
Two Can Play That Game (2001)
Two Can Play That Game stars Vivica A. Fox and Morris Chestnut. The movie follows Shante Smith (Fox), a successful businesswoman, and her boyfriend, Keith Fenton (Chestnut). When Keith is caught cheating on Shante, she decides to turn the tables and use the same tactics he used to get him back. The movie is a hilarious look at relationships.
How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)
How Stella Got Her Groove Back stars Angela Bassett and Taye Diggs. The movie follows Stella (Bassett) as she takes a break from her stressful life by travelling to Jamaica, where she meets and falls in love with a younger man (Diggs). The relationship helps her re-discover her identity and inner strength while finding true love. This movie is a great example of how love can help us to re-discover our passions and how age is just a number when it comes to love.
Boomerang (1992)
Boomerang stars Eddie Murphy and Robin Givens. The film follows the story of Marcus Graham (Murphy), an ad executive who is used to playing the field with women. When he meets his new boss, Jacqueline Broyer (Givens), he finds she is playing him just as much as he is playing her. This movie is a funny and entertaining look at the game of love and how it can be turned on its head when two people are determined to win.
Love Jones (1997)
Love Jones stars Larenz Tate and Nia Long. The movie follows the story of an aspiring writer Darius and a photographer, Nina, who find each other in unlikely places. As they get to know each other, they form a bond that blossoms into something more. Love Jones explores the complexities of relationships and how two people can fall in love even if it doesn’t always make sense.
If romantic comedies aren’t your thing, why not try black historical films.
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