As America celebrates its 250th anniversary this 4th of July weekend, we here at The Root are here to help you figure out what to watch between plates of BBQ, potato salad, and sweet treats?
We’ve rounded up a handful of Black shows and movies on Hulu that you can stream along with your holiday festivities. Keep reading for more!
“Independence Day”
Forgive us if this one is a bit too on the nose, but can you really get better than watching Will Smith kick butt and take names while munching on a rib? Yeah, we didn’t think so either!
“White House Down”
If you liked seeing Barack Obama as president, then you’ll enjoy seeing another Black man as president in “White House Down.” This time, it’s Jamie Foxx, and he gives a good performance, as usual!
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“The Neighborhood”
In the spirit of friendly neighborhood barbecues and shared plates with special people, take a fun beat and put on the Cedric the Entertainer-led show, “The Neighborhood.”
“Coming to America”
Eddie Murphy’s comedy in “Coming to America” is a classic and a film that will have the whole gang laughing from start to finish. This one is sort of a no-brainer. (You’ll need the Watch with Live TV add-on for this one!)
“Abbott Elementary”
School may be out in real life, but if you didn’t get a chance to check in with your favorite teachers at “Abbott Elementary,” this weekend is a good time to do so. Teachers are the backbones of America!
“Summer of Soul”
This Questlove-directed documentary highlights a little-known piece of American history and gives you some seriously irresistible sounds you’ll want to groove to afterwards.
“Hidden Figures”
The story of the three Black women who helped America win the 1960s “Space Race” will never get old. Seeing how they overcame obstacles and did the impossible using their smarts and skills is encouraging during times like these. (You’ll need to have the Cinemax add-on for this one!)
“Pole to Pole with Will Smith”
This Will Smith project looks at various parts of the world between the North Pole and the South Pole. While this is a holiday that celebrates America, seeing a bit of the rest of the world can’t hurt!
“Black-ish”
Technically, season four, episode one of “Black-ish” is about Juneteenth. But let’s be real: we’re all lowkey calling the 4th of July, “Julyteenth” anyway, right? So it makes sense to stream this!
“Black Travel Across America”
If you’re looking for more of an educational and intriguing watch, then check out this unique travel show that takes stops at various historically listed Green Book spots and popular Black travel destinations.
“The Wonder Years”
Sitcoms will never go out of style, and this reimagined version of “The Wonder Years” with a Black cast is a good time.
“The 1619 Project”
Now this may be a lot to sink your teeth into on this chill holiday, but if you’re interested in looking deeper into America’s history and the contributions Black folks made, then this is the watch for you!
“Remember the Titans”
What’s more American than football and rooting for the underdogs? Nothing! And that’s exactly why this film is a great option.
