BET (Black Entertainment Television) has been a pivotal platform in showcasing African American culture and entertainment. Over the years, BET has produced and aired numerous films that have had a significant impact on audiences, reflecting a diverse range of stories, experiences, and talents. This article provides a comprehensive list of BET movies, detailing the classics and modern masterpieces that have been broadcast on this influential network. Whether you’re a longtime viewer or new to BET, this guide offers detailed insights into the extensive filmography of BET movies.
BET Movies List
Classic Hits
“The Jacksons: An American Dream” (1992)
A two-part miniseries that chronicles the story of the Jackson family, from their humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, to their rise to fame as one of the world’s most famous musical families. The film covers the personal and professional challenges faced by the Jacksons, highlighting their triumphs and tribulations.
Key Details:
- Genre: Biographical Drama
- Director: Karen Arthur
- Release Date: November 15, 1992
- Stars: Angela Bassett, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, Jason Weaver
“The Women of Brewster Place” (1989)
Based on Gloria Naylor’s novel, this drama depicts the lives of several African American women living in a rundown urban neighborhood. The film explores their struggles, friendships, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Key Details:
- Genre: Drama
- Director: Donna Deitch
- Release Date: March 19, 1989
- Stars: Oprah Winfrey, Cicely Tyson, Jackée Harry
Modern Masterpieces
“The New Edition Story” (2017)
This three-part miniseries chronicles the rise and fall of the R&B group New Edition. The film delves into their formation, success, internal conflicts, and eventual solo careers, providing a detailed look at their impact on the music industry.
Key Details:
- Genre: Biographical Drama
- Director: Chris Robinson
- Release Date: January 24, 2017
- Stars: Bryshere Y. Gray, Elijah Kelley, Luke James
“Being Mary Jane: The Movie” (2017)
A continuation of the hit TV series, this film follows the life of Mary Jane Paul, a successful TV news anchor who navigates the complexities of her personal and professional life. The movie addresses themes of love, career, and family dynamics.
Key Details:
- Genre: Drama
- Director: Adam Shankman
- Release Date: July 23, 2017
- Stars: Gabrielle Union, Lisa Vidal, Margaret Avery
Comprehensive Movie List: From Beginning to Career End
| Year | Movie Title | Genre | Director | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1989 | The Women of Brewster Place | Drama | Donna Deitch | Adaptation of Gloria Naylor’s novel, starring Oprah Winfrey |
| 1992 | The Jacksons: An American Dream | Biographical Drama | Karen Arthur | Chronicles the rise of the Jackson family |
| 1993 | Stompin’ at the Savoy | Musical Drama | Debbie Allen | Set in 1939 Harlem, explores the lives of four friends |
| 1994 | The Tuskegee Airmen | War Drama | Robert Markowitz | Story of the first African American fighter pilots |
| 1996 | Soul Food | Drama | George Tillman Jr. | Follows the trials of a close-knit African American family |
| 1998 | Mama Flora’s Family | Drama | Peter Werner | Miniseries based on Alex Haley’s final work |
| 1999 | Life | Comedy Drama | Ted Demme | Follows two wrongly convicted prisoners |
| 2000 | Love & Basketball | Romance Drama | Gina Prince-Bythewood | Story of a young couple pursuing their basketball careers |
| 2001 | Baby Boy | Drama | John Singleton | Explores the life of a young man in South Central LA |
| 2002 | Drumline | Musical Drama | Charles Stone III | Chronicles a young drummer’s journey in a marching band |
| 2004 | Ray | Biographical Drama | Taylor Hackford | Biopic of Ray Charles |
| 2005 | Coach Carter | Drama | Thomas Carter | Story of a high school basketball coach |
| 2006 | The Last King of Scotland | Biographical Drama | Kevin Macdonald | Chronicles the reign of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin |
| 2007 | Why Did I Get Married? | Comedy Drama | Tyler Perry | Follows the lives of eight married friends |
| 2008 | Cadillac Records | Musical Drama | Darnell Martin | Chronicles the rise of Chess Records |
| 2009 | Precious | Drama | Lee Daniels | Story of an abused teen struggling to improve her life |
| 2010 | For Colored Girls | Drama | Tyler Perry | Adaptation of Ntozake Shange’s play |
| 2011 | Jumping the Broom | Comedy Drama | Salim Akil | Follows two African American families meeting for a wedding |
| 2012 | Think Like a Man | Romantic Comedy | Tim Story | Follows four friends who use a book to get their lives on track |
| 2013 | 12 Years a Slave | Biographical Drama | Steve McQueen | True story of a free black man sold into slavery |
| 2014 | Selma | Historical Drama | Ava DuVernay | Chronicles the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches |
| 2015 | Straight Outta Compton | Biographical Drama | F. Gary Gray | Chronicles the rise of rap group N.W.A. |
| 2016 | Hidden Figures | Biographical Drama | Theodore Melfi | Story of three African American women mathematicians at NASA |
| 2017 | The New Edition Story | Biographical Drama | Chris Robinson | Chronicles the rise of R&B group New Edition |
| 2017 | Being Mary Jane: The Movie | Drama | Adam Shankman | Continuation of the TV series |
| 2018 | Black Panther | Superhero | Ryan Coogler | Chronicles the rise of T’Challa as the Black Panther |
| 2019 | Queen & Slim | Drama | Melina Matsoukas | Follows a couple on the run after a fatal encounter with a cop |
| 2020 | The Banker | Drama | George Nolfi | Story of two African American entrepreneurs in the 1960s |
Conclusion
BET has played a crucial role in amplifying African American voices and stories through its diverse and impactful filmography. From classic hits like “The Jacksons: An American Dream” to modern masterpieces like “The New Edition Story,” BET movies have not only entertained but also educated and inspired audiences worldwide. This comprehensive list of BET movies serves as a testament to the network’s commitment to showcasing the richness of African American culture and history.
FAQs
What is BET known for in the entertainment industry?
BET (Black Entertainment Television) is known for its focus on African American culture, showcasing a wide range of movies, music, and TV shows that reflect the experiences and stories of the African American community.
Which BET movie is considered a classic hit?
“The Jacksons: An American Dream” (1992) is considered a classic hit, chronicling the rise of the Jackson family in the music industry.
What are some recent BET movies that have gained acclaim?
Recent acclaimed BET movies include “The New Edition Story” (2017) and “Being Mary Jane: The Movie” (2017), both of which received praise for their storytelling and performances.
Has BET produced any biographical films?
Yes, BET has produced several biographical films, including “The New Edition Story” and “Ray,” which detail the lives of notable figures in music and history.
What impact has BET had on African American culture?
BET has had a significant impact on African American culture by providing a platform for diverse stories and voices, promoting representation, and contributing to the cultural and social dialogue within the community.
This article offers a detailed look at the extensive filmography of BET movies, highlighting the network’s contribution to the entertainment industry and its role in celebrating and preserving African American culture.