If you enjoyed the satirical and thought-provoking humor of 'Watermelon Man' (1970), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows that tackle race, identity, and social commentary with wit and bold storytelling. This list is perfect for fans of sharp satire and films that challenge societal norms.

Putney Swope (1969)
Description: A satirical comedy that critiques corporate culture and racial stereotypes through absurd humor and sharp social commentary.
Fact: The film was shot in just 12 days on a very low budget, and its guerrilla-style filmmaking became a hallmark of its raw, unfiltered aesthetic.


Sounder (1972)
Description: A heartfelt drama that, while more serious in tone, shares themes of perseverance and family bonds in the face of adversity.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its authentic portrayal of rural Black life during the Great Depression, earning critical acclaim and award nominations.


Blazing Saddles (1974)
Description: A boundary-pushing comedy that uses exaggerated stereotypes and irreverent humor to tackle racism and societal norms.
Fact: The film was one of the first mainstream comedies to break the fourth wall, a technique that became iconic in Mel Brooks' work.


Uptown Saturday Night (1974)
Description: A lighthearted crime comedy that explores themes of friendship, luck, and urban life with a mix of wit and charm.
Fact: The film marked the first collaboration between Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby, sparking a successful partnership in comedy.


Cooley High (1975)
Description: A coming-of-age dramedy that balances humor with poignant moments, capturing the vibrancy and struggles of urban youth.
Fact: The film's soundtrack, filled with Motown hits, became synonymous with the era and helped define its nostalgic tone.


Let's Do It Again (1975)
Description: A heist comedy that mixes clever schemes with playful banter, highlighting themes of teamwork and outsmarting the system.
Fact: The film was a box office success and led to a reunion of its lead actors in subsequent projects, cementing their chemistry.


The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars & Motor Kings (1976)
Description: A sports comedy that celebrates resilience and camaraderie while poking fun at the absurdities of racial segregation in baseball.
Fact: The film features an all-star cast of Black actors, many of whom were veterans of the Negro Leagues or had personal connections to its history.


Car Wash (1976)
Description: A day-in-the-life ensemble comedy that blends humor with social observations, focusing on working-class struggles and camaraderie.
Fact: The film's soundtrack, featuring the hit song 'Car Wash' by Rose Royce, became a cultural phenomenon and topped the Billboard charts.


Greased Lightning (1977)
Description: A biographical comedy-drama that blends humor with the underdog story of breaking racial barriers in sports.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Wendell Scott, the first African American NASCAR driver to win a race in the Grand National Series.


Which Way Is Up? (1977)
Description: A farcical comedy that delves into class and identity through the misadventures of a man caught between two worlds.
Fact: The film was inspired by the Italian movie 'The Seduction of Mimi,' but reimagined with a distinctly American working-class perspective.
