10 Gripping Movies & Shows Similar to Roots

Description: A controversial exploitation film that depicts the brutal realities of slavery in the antebellum South. It focuses on the dehumanization and violence inflicted upon enslaved people.

Fact: The film was one of the first mainstream movies to graphically depict the horrors of slavery. It was banned in several countries due to its explicit content.

Description: A powerful story of African-American women in the early 20th century, this film addresses themes of abuse, resilience, and sisterhood. It portrays the struggles and triumphs of Black women in a racist and sexist society.

Fact: The film was Steven Spielberg's first dramatic film and was nominated for 11 Academy Awards. It is based on Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Description: This film tells the story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, one of the first African-American units in the Civil War. It focuses on themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the fight for equality.

Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Denzel Washington. Many of the battle scenes were filmed using real Civil War reenactors.

Description: This historical drama recounts the 1839 mutiny aboard the slave ship La Amistad and the subsequent legal battle. It highlights the struggle for justice and the inhumanity of the transatlantic slave trade.

Fact: The film features dialogue in the Mende language, spoken by the enslaved Africans. It was based on actual court records and historical documents.

Description: Based on Toni Morrison's novel, this film explores the psychological and emotional scars of slavery. It uses supernatural elements to delve into themes of memory, trauma, and the quest for identity.

Fact: Oprah Winfrey, who produced and starred in the film, bought the rights to the novel before it was even published. The film was shot in various locations, including a real plantation in Virginia.

Description: A stylized and violent take on slavery, this film combines historical drama with Quentin Tarantino's signature action and dark humor. It explores themes of revenge, justice, and the brutality of slavery.

Fact: The film features an original song by Rick Ross, which was nominated for a Grammy. It won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay.

Description: This film is a harrowing depiction of slavery in America, focusing on the brutal realities and emotional toll of the institution. It shares a deep exploration of resilience, identity, and the fight for freedom.

Fact: The film is based on the 1853 memoir by Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This film dramatizes the 1831 Nat Turner slave rebellion, focusing on the lead-up and aftermath of the uprising. It portrays the extreme violence of slavery and the fight for dignity and freedom.

Fact: The film was a passion project for Nate Parker, who wrote, directed, and starred in it. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award and Grand Jury Prize.

Description: This biographical film tells the story of Harriet Tubman, a heroic figure who escaped slavery and then risked her life to lead others to freedom. It highlights themes of courage, sacrifice, and liberation.

Fact: Cynthia Erivo, who plays Harriet Tubman, performed her own stunts in the film. The movie was released on the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in Virginia.

Description: A reimagining of the historical Underground Railroad as an actual railroad system, this series delves into the horrors of slavery and the relentless pursuit of freedom. It blends historical drama with magical realism.

Fact: The series is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Colson Whitehead. Each episode is named after a different state, reflecting the protagonist's journey.