10 Shows & Movies Like The People v. The Klan

Description: A documentary investigating the assassination of Black Panther Party leader Fred Hampton by Chicago police. It exposes government repression of Black activists and the fight for racial justice.

Fact: The film was nearly suppressed by the FBI, who confiscated footage during its production. It remains a critical piece of activist filmmaking.

Description: A landmark documentary series chronicling the Civil Rights Movement in America, emphasizing grassroots activism and the fight against racial oppression. It provides historical context for ongoing struggles against racism.

Fact: The series was nearly lost due to copyright issues with its archival footage, but a fundraising campaign saved it. It is often used in educational settings to teach about civil rights.

Description: A Spike Lee film that explores racial tensions in a Brooklyn neighborhood, culminating in a violent clash. It addresses systemic racism, police brutality, and community dynamics.

Fact: The film was added to the National Film Registry for its cultural significance. It sparked debates about its ending and message.

Description: A biographical epic about the life of Malcolm X, focusing on his transformation into a civil rights leader and his advocacy for Black empowerment. It aligns with themes of racial resistance and identity.

Fact: Denzel Washington's portrayal of Malcolm X earned him an Academy Award nomination. The film's budget ballooned due to its extensive production design.

Description: This film dramatizes the last day of Oscar Grant, a young Black man killed by police, highlighting racial profiling and police brutality. It resonates with themes of systemic racism and its human cost.

Fact: The film won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. It was Ryan Coogler's directorial debut.

Description: This documentary explores racial injustice and wrongful convictions, focusing on the lives of five young Black and Latino men falsely accused of a crime. It highlights systemic racism and the failures of the justice system.

Fact: The film was directed by Ken Burns, his first documentary to focus on contemporary history. It won a Peabody Award for its powerful storytelling.

Description: This documentary examines the rise and fall of the Black Panther Party, focusing on their activism and the government's efforts to dismantle them. It connects to themes of racial resistance and systemic oppression.

Fact: The film features rare archival footage and interviews with former Panthers. It was part of PBS's Independent Lens series.

Description: A narrative film that delves into the aftermath of police violence against a Black teenager, exploring themes of racial identity, activism, and community response. It mirrors real-life incidents of racial injustice.

Fact: The film is based on a bestselling young adult novel of the same name. It was praised for its authentic portrayal of Black teenage life.

Description: This documentary captures the Ferguson uprising after the police killing of Michael Brown, showcasing community resistance and the fight for justice. It aligns with themes of racial tension and activism.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Sabaah Folayan, who was inspired to make it after participating in the protests. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: A documentary that revisits the 1992 Los Angeles riots following the acquittal of police officers in the Rodney King beating case. It highlights racial injustice and urban unrest.

Fact: The film uses entirely archival footage without narration, creating a raw and immersive experience. It won a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Documentary.