Celebrating Chadwick Boseman: 7 Must-See Films to Stream at Home
Chadwick Boseman’s untimely passing left a void in the hearts of many, both within and outside the film industry․ His dedication to his craft and his powerful performances resonated with audiences worldwide․ Beyond his acting talent, Boseman was known for his grace, humility, and commitment to portraying strong, positive role models, particularly for the Black community․ This article celebrates his legacy by highlighting seven of his most captivating films that you can stream from the comfort of your home․
1․ Black Panther (2018)
Black Panther is more than just a superhero movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon․ Boseman’s portrayal of T’Challa, the king of Wakanda, a technologically advanced African nation, is iconic․ The film explores themes of identity, heritage, and the responsibility of power with depth and nuance․ The visual spectacle is stunning, and the soundtrack is equally impressive, making it a truly immersive cinematic experience․
Why it’s a must-watch:
- Groundbreaking representation and cultural impact․
- Boseman’s regal and compelling performance․
- Action-packed sequences combined with thought-provoking themes․
- Stunning visuals and a powerful soundtrack․
Streaming platforms: Disney+
2․ 42 (2013)
Before becoming a global icon, Boseman delivered a powerful performance as Jackie Robinson in 42․ This biographical sports drama tells the story of Robinson’s courageous journey as the first African American to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era․ Boseman captures Robinson’s resilience, determination, and the immense pressure he faced with remarkable authenticity․ It’s a story of breaking barriers and fighting for equality in the face of prejudice․
Key takeaways:
- Boseman’s convincing portrayal of Jackie Robinson․
- A moving depiction of racial prejudice in 1940s America․
- A celebration of courage and perseverance․
- A well-crafted and emotionally resonant sports drama․
Streaming platforms: HBO Max, Hulu (with HBO Max add-on), Amazon Prime Video (for rent/purchase)
3․ Get On Up (2014)
In Get On Up, Boseman transforms into the legendary “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown․ This biopic chronicles Brown’s rise to fame, showcasing his energetic performances, turbulent personal life, and undeniable musical genius; Boseman’s performance is electrifying, capturing Brown’s flamboyant stage presence and complex personality․ He not only embodies Brown’s physicality but also his spirit and musical passion․
Highlights of the performance:
- Boseman’s captivating transformation into James Brown․
- Authentic recreation of Brown’s iconic stage performances․
- Exploration of Brown’s complex and often troubled life․
- A celebration of the power and influence of soul music․
Streaming platforms: Amazon Prime Video (for rent/purchase), Apple TV (for rent/purchase)
4․ Marshall (2017)
Marshall tells the story of Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice, during his early career as a lawyer for the NAACP․ Boseman portrays a young, determined Marshall defending a black chauffeur accused of assaulting his white employer․ The film highlights the racial injustices prevalent in the American legal system and Marshall’s unwavering commitment to fighting for equality․ It’s a compelling courtroom drama with a powerful message․
Why this film stands out:
- Boseman’s portrayal of a young and ambitious Thurgood Marshall․
- Exploration of racial bias in the legal system․
- A gripping courtroom drama with high stakes․
- A story of courage and the fight for justice․
Streaming platforms: Amazon Prime Video (for rent/purchase), Apple TV (for rent/purchase)
5․ Da 5 Bloods (2020)
Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods is a powerful and timely war drama that follows four African American Vietnam War veterans who return to Vietnam decades later to search for the remains of their fallen squad leader and a hidden treasure․ Boseman plays “Stormin’ Norman,” the charismatic and influential leader of the squad in flashbacks․ His presence, though limited, is deeply impactful, representing the ideals and the trauma that continue to haunt the surviving veterans․ The film explores themes of brotherhood, PTSD, and the lasting impact of war․
Reasons to watch:
- Boseman’s memorable performance as the influential “Stormin’ Norman․”
- Spike Lee’s powerful and thought-provoking direction․
- Exploration of the experiences of Black soldiers in the Vietnam War․
- A compelling blend of war drama, action, and social commentary․
Streaming platforms: Netflix
6․ Message from the King (2016)
Message from the King is a gritty and intense action thriller․ Boseman plays Jacob King, a man from Cape Town, South Africa, who arrives in Los Angeles in search of his missing sister․ His search quickly leads him down a dark and dangerous path, forcing him to confront the city’s underbelly and fight for survival․ This film showcases Boseman’s versatility as an actor, demonstrating his ability to handle action-oriented roles with depth and intensity․
What makes it compelling:
- Boseman’s intense and determined performance․
- A suspenseful and action-packed storyline․
- Exploration of the darker side of Los Angeles․
- A story of brotherly love and relentless pursuit of justice․
Streaming platforms: Netflix
7․ Draft Day (2014)
While not a starring role, Boseman’s performance in Draft Day is significant․ He plays Vontae Mack, a talented linebacker whose draft prospects are uncertain due to character concerns․ His scenes are pivotal to the central conflict of the movie, which revolves around the Cleveland Browns’ general manager’s (Kevin Costner) high-stakes decision-making during the NFL Draft․ Boseman brings a quiet intensity to his role, showcasing the pressure and dreams of young athletes on the cusp of their professional careers; His presence adds depth and authenticity to the film’s portrayal of the NFL Draft process․
Why it’s worth watching:
- Boseman’s nuanced portrayal of a young athlete under pressure․
- A behind-the-scenes look at the NFL Draft process․
- A compelling sports drama with high stakes and suspense․
- Strong performances from the ensemble cast․
Streaming platforms: Amazon Prime Video (for rent/purchase), Apple TV (for rent/purchase)
Chadwick Boseman’s impact on cinema and culture is undeniable․ His performances were not only captivating but also inspiring, embodying strength, dignity, and hope․ He chose roles that resonated with his values and used his platform to advocate for positive change․ His legacy extends far beyond the screen, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him and those who admired his work․ We remember him not only for his talent but also for his character and his commitment to making the world a better place․
