Hollywood is currently enjoying the talent of a new generation of hardworking Black creators who make movies for theater releases, television networks, and virtual streaming. Though the industry has been making strides in recent years, this progress was paved by several Black filmmakers who undoubtedly left their marks on film and television history. Here's a closer look at a few of the most influential Black directors.

Who Are Some Influential Black Film Directors?

1. Spike Lee

In 1986, Spike Lee made his directorial debut with She's Gotta Have It, a film about a modern Black woman's love life. More than three decades later, Lee has earned a legendary reputation for bringing stories to the big screen that explore everything from colorism in the Black community to race relations and poverty. 

Though his films typically don't break box-office records, Lee's work frequently receives critical acclaim, earning him an honorary Oscar in 2016 for his accomplishments. It wasn't until 2019 that Lee received his first Academy Award for best adapted screenplay for BlacKkKlansman.

2. Ava DuVernay

Ava DuVernay is the first African American woman to win the Best Director award at the Sundance Film Festival. For her film Selma, she was also the first black woman to be nominated for a Best Director Golden Globe and direct a movie nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture. 

She's also known for When They See Us and 13th, both of which received critical acclaim and multiple awards for portraying the authentic African American experience. DuVernay also collaborated with Oprah Winfrey on the series Queen Sugar, which appeared on Winfrey's television network OWN.

3. Michael Schultz

Michael Schultz is a well-known director and producer for film, theater, and television networks. He got his big break by directing the Broadway play To Be Young, Gifted and Black in 1969, which he brought to television in 1972. 

Schultz left his mark on the filmmaking industry and Black community with projects in the 1970s that blended crass humor with social commentary, including Car Wash, Cooley High, and Which Way Is Up?  In 1978, Schultz directed the musical Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, featuring performances by Peter Frampton, The Bee Gees, and Steve Martin. In 1991, the director was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame.

If you want to find an impressive selection of Black and LGBTQ+ entertainment featuring some of the industry's most influential filmmakers, turn to the iElevate App. The streaming service spotlights Black creators of talk shows, films, documentaries, educational content, and more. The on-demand television network strives to bring communities together through authentic, high-quality content. To learn more about the television app, call (404) 789-7734, visit them online, or follow them on Facebook.