Black Actors Who Have Directed Some Of Your Favorite Modern Movies

The film industry has seen a significant shift as many talented Black actors have expanded their creative horizons by stepping behind the camera to direct. These artists bring a unique perspective to storytelling and often use their influence to highlight diverse narratives and complex characters. From high octane action movies to thought provoking social commentaries these actor turned directors have made a lasting impact on modern cinema. Their work not only entertains but also challenges traditional industry norms while providing opportunities for underrepresented voices. This list celebrates the multi hyphenate men who have successfully navigated the transition from performing in front of the lens to leading a production from the director chair.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele transitioned from a successful sketch comedy career to becoming a master of modern horror. He won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for his directorial debut ‘Get Out’ which explored racial tensions through a psychological lens. Following that success he directed the unsettling doppelganger film ‘Us’ and the science fiction spectacle ‘Nope’ which both received critical acclaim. Peele often incorporates social commentary into his work while maintaining a unique visual style and intense atmosphere. His films have redefined what audiences expect from the horror genre in the twenty first century.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation and has also established himself as a talented director. He made his directorial debut with ‘Antwone Fisher’ which told the moving story of a young sailor dealing with a traumatic past. Washington also directed and starred in ‘The Great Debaters’ which focused on a college debate team in the Jim Crow South. One of his most celebrated works behind the camera is ‘Fences’ based on the play by August Wilson. His directing style emphasizes strong performances and emotional depth in storytelling.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan stepped behind the camera for the third installment of the ‘Creed’ franchise. In ‘Creed III’ he continued the story of Adonis Creed while exploring themes of brotherhood and past mistakes. The film showcased his ability to handle complex fight choreography and intimate character moments simultaneously. Jordan drew inspiration from various anime series to craft the visual language of the boxing sequences. His directorial debut was met with praise for its technical skill and emotional weight.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry is a prolific figure in the entertainment industry who has directed numerous feature films and television shows. He is perhaps best known for creating and directing the popular ‘Madea’ film series including titles like ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’ and ‘Madea Goes to Jail’. Perry often writes directs and produces his projects to maintain full creative control over his storytelling. His work frequently explores themes of family faith and resilience within the Black community. He has built a massive media empire while consistently providing platforms for emerging talent.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Chiwetel Ejiofor is an Academy Award nominated actor who made a significant directorial debut with ‘The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind’. The film tells the inspiring true story of a young boy in Malawi who builds a windmill to save his village from famine. Ejiofor also wrote the screenplay and starred in the film as the father of the young protagonist. The project was praised for its authentic portrayal of African life and its powerful emotional narrative. He continues to balance his acting career with compelling projects behind the camera.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba made his feature film directorial debut with ‘Yardie’ in 2018. The movie is an adaptation of a novel that follows a young Jamaican man who travels to London and becomes involved in the criminal underworld. Elba drew from his own experiences and cultural background to bring a sense of realism to the period piece. The film highlights his ability to capture grit and tension while maintaining a strong focus on character development. His work as a director demonstrates a keen eye for visual storytelling and atmosphere.

Nate Parker

Nate Parker gained significant attention when he wrote directed and starred in ‘The Birth of a Nation’. The historical drama tells the story of Nat Turner and the slave rebellion he led in 1831. Parker spent years developing the project to ensure it captured the gravity of the historical events accurately. The film won several awards at the Sundance Film Festival upon its initial release. It remains a notable example of an actor taking on a massive historical narrative for their directorial debut.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle took on the ambitious task of directing and starring in the biographical film ‘Miles Ahead’. The movie provides an unconventional look at the life and music of jazz legend Miles Davis. Cheadle chose to focus on a specific period in the musician’s life rather than a traditional chronological approach. The film uses a fast paced and experimental style to reflect the improvisational nature of jazz. His performance and direction were lauded for capturing the spirit of a complex musical icon.

Ice Cube

Ice Cube transitioned from a legendary rap career to acting and eventually directing. He made his directorial debut with ‘The Players Club’ which he also wrote and starred in. The film explores the lives of women working in a strip club and the challenges they face in their personal lives. Ice Cube has also been heavily involved as a producer on many of his most famous projects like ‘Friday’ and ‘Straight Outta Compton’. His work often reflects his roots and provides a platform for urban stories.

Mario Van Peebles

Mario Van Peebles is a veteran actor who made a major impact with his directorial work on ‘New Jack City’. The film is a classic of the urban crime genre and helped define the aesthetic of early nineties cinema. He followed this success with ‘Posse’ which was a rare Western featuring a primarily Black cast. Van Peebles has also directed biographical films such as ‘Baadasssss’ which chronicles the making of his father’s groundbreaking movie. His career spans decades of consistent work in both film and television.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker has directed several high profile films throughout his esteemed career in Hollywood. He directed the romantic drama ‘Waiting to Exhale’ which became a massive cultural phenomenon upon its release. Whitaker also took the helm for ‘First Daughter’ and ‘Hope Floats’ demonstrating his versatility in different genres. His directing style is often characterized by a sensitive approach to character relationships and emotional storytelling. He remains one of the most respected figures in the industry for both his acting and directing.

Bill Duke

Bill Duke is a legendary actor and director known for his work on both sides of the camera. He directed the influential crime drama ‘Deep Cover’ which is celebrated for its gritty atmosphere and social commentary. Duke also directed ‘Sister Act 2 Back in the Habit’ which became a beloved classic for many audiences. His career has seen him directing numerous episodes of television alongside his feature film work. He is recognized for his ability to handle diverse genres from intense thrillers to lighthearted comedies.

Robert Townsend

Robert Townsend made a name for himself with the satirical comedy ‘Hollywood Shuffle’ which he directed and starred in. The film remains a poignant commentary on the limited roles available to Black actors in the industry. He also directed ‘The Five Heartbeats’ which is a beloved musical drama following the rise and fall of a vocal group. Townsend has been a pioneer for independent filmmakers by showing how to create high quality work with limited budgets. His contributions have inspired a generation of Black creators to take control of their own narratives.

David Oyelowo

David Oyelowo is a classically trained actor who made his directorial debut with the fantasy drama ‘The Water Man’. The film follows a young boy who goes on a quest to find a mythical figure to save his ill mother. Oyelowo also starred in the film and emphasized the importance of telling stories that families can enjoy together. The project showcased his ability to blend magical realism with grounded emotional stakes. He continues to seek out diverse projects that challenge his skills as both a performer and a director.

Chris Rock

Chris Rock has directed several films that showcase his sharp wit and observational humor. He directed and starred in ‘Top Five’ which received critical acclaim for its smart writing and realistic portrayal of celebrity life. Rock also directed ‘I Think I Love My Wife’ and ‘Head of State’ where he explored themes of marriage and politics. His directing work often mirrors his stand up comedy by blending humor with insightful social observations. He has proven to be a talented filmmaker with a unique voice in modern comedy.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy made his directorial debut with the period comedy ‘Harlem Nights’ which he also wrote and starred in. The film features a legendary cast including Richard Pryor and Redd Foxx and remains a favorite among fans of the genre. Murphy showcased his ability to balance a large ensemble cast while maintaining the film’s specific comedic tone. Although he has focused primarily on acting in recent years his work on ‘Harlem Nights’ stands as a significant milestone in his career. The film is celebrated for its stylish production design and classic Murphy humor.

Martin Lawrence

Martin Lawrence took the director’s chair for the dark romantic comedy ‘A Thin Line Between Love and Hate’. In this film he plays a womanizer who meets his match in a woman who refuses to be ignored. Lawrence balanced the comedic elements of the story with increasingly intense thriller themes as the narrative progressed. The film was a commercial success and showed a different side of his creative abilities beyond stand up and sitcom acting. It remains a notable entry in his extensive filmography from the nineties.

Giancarlo Esposito

Giancarlo Esposito is widely known for his iconic acting roles but has also ventured into directing. He directed the drama ‘Gospel Hill’ which explores the intersection of race and politics in a small southern town. Esposito also directed and starred in ‘The Show’ which is a modern satire about the dark side of reality television. His directing style is often thoughtful and focuses on the complexities of human morality and social justice. He continues to be a highly sought after talent for his work on both sides of the camera.

Blair Underwood

Blair Underwood made his feature film directorial debut with the independent thriller ‘Bridge to Nowhere’. The film follows a group of friends who get involved in a high stakes criminal enterprise with dangerous consequences. Underwood has also directed several short films and episodes of television shows like ‘Gossip Girl’. His work behind the camera demonstrates a focus on visual style and building narrative tension. He has expressed a long standing passion for directing and continues to develop new projects.

Charles S. Dutton

Charles S. Dutton is a celebrated stage and screen actor who directed the sports drama ‘Against the Ropes’. The film stars Meg Ryan and is inspired by the true story of a successful female boxing manager. Dutton also directed the television movie ‘The Corner’ which won several awards for its raw portrayal of life in an impoverished neighborhood. His work often focuses on grounded stories with strong social themes and complex characters. He has a reputation for eliciting powerful performances from his actors.

RZA

RZA is the de facto leader of the Wu Tang Clan and has successfully transitioned into acting and directing. He made his directorial debut with ‘The Man with the Iron Fists’ which is a tribute to the martial arts films he grew up watching. He followed this with the musical drama ‘Love Beats Rhymes’ which explores the world of slam poetry and hip hop. RZA often incorporates his musical background into his films by creating unique and atmospheric soundtracks. His directing work is known for its high energy and distinct visual flair.

Boots Riley

Boots Riley made a major impact on modern cinema with his surrealist directorial debut ‘Sorry to Bother You’. The film is a dark comedy that uses high concept satire to critique capitalism and corporate culture. Riley’s background as a musician and activist is evident in the film’s bold political message and unique aesthetic. The movie was a critical darling and established him as one of the most original voices in filmmaking. He continues to develop projects that push the boundaries of traditional narrative structures.

Daniel Kaluuya

Daniel Kaluuya is an Academy Award winning actor who co directed and co wrote the dystopian thriller ‘The Kitchen’. Set in a futuristic London the film explores themes of community and resistance in a world where social inequality has reached an extreme. Kaluuya worked alongside Kibwe Tavares to bring this visually striking and emotionally resonant story to life. The project demonstrates his commitment to telling unique stories that reflect contemporary social issues. His directorial debut was highly anticipated and received positive reviews for its ambition.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman directed the intense drama ‘Bopha!’ which stars Danny Glover and is set in apartheid era South Africa. The film focuses on a Black police officer who faces a moral dilemma as his son joins the anti apartheid movement. Freeman chose a powerful subject for his directorial debut and focused on the emotional toll of political conflict on families. His direction was praised for its restraint and its focus on the powerful performances of the cast. While he is primarily known for his acting Freeman showed a strong command of narrative film with this project.

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne wrote directed and starred in the crime drama ‘Once in the Life’ in the year 2000. The film is based on his own play and tells a gritty story about two half brothers involved in the drug trade. Fishburne used a claustrophobic and intense directing style to reflect the desperate circumstances of the characters. The project showcased his ability to adapt stage material into a compelling cinematic experience. He has remained an influential figure in the industry as both a legendary actor and an occasional filmmaker.

Keenen Ivory Wayans

Keenen Ivory Wayans is a major figure in comedy who directed the blockbuster hit ‘Scary Movie’. The film became a massive success and spawned a long running franchise of horror parodies. Wayans also directed ‘I’m Gonna Git You Sucka’ which satirized the blaxploitation genre of the seventies. His work is known for its high energy humor and its ability to lampoon popular culture with precision. He has played a vital role in launching the careers of many other comedic talents through his directing and producing work.

Eriq La Salle

Eriq La Salle is best known for his acting roles on television but has also directed feature films like ‘Rebound’. The movie tells the story of a legendary street basketball player and explores his personal struggles and triumphs. La Salle has also directed numerous episodes of high profile television series and several made for television movies. His directing style often focuses on character driven narratives with a strong sense of realism. He continues to be active in the industry as a multi talented creator across different mediums.

LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton is a beloved icon known for his roles in ‘Roots’ and ‘Star Trek’ but he is also a prolific director. He directed the family film ‘Blizzard’ which tells a heartwarming story about a young figure skater and a magical reindeer. Burton has also directed dozens of episodes of television including many for the ‘Star Trek’ franchise. His work often reflects his interest in storytelling that inspires and educates audiences of all ages. He has been a consistent presence behind the camera for decades in both film and television.

Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers was a celebrated actor who expanded into directing with various television projects and films. He directed the action film ‘Always Night’ and spent significant time directing episodes of popular series like ‘The Mandalorian’. Weathers was known for his ability to handle large scale production and complex action sequences with ease. His work behind the camera earned him respect from peers and fans alike for its technical proficiency. He successfully transitioned from an action star to a reliable and talented director in the modern era.

Michael Jai White

Michael Jai White is a world class martial artist and actor who directed ‘Never Back Down 2 The Beatdown’. In this film he also stars as a mentor to a group of young fighters preparing for a major competition. White used his extensive knowledge of combat sports to ensure the fight scenes were realistic and visually engaging. He has also directed other action oriented projects and continues to develop films through his own production company. His work as a director often showcases his passion for martial arts and physical storytelling.

Matthew A. Cherry

Matthew A. Cherry is a former professional athlete who transitioned into filmmaking and won an Academy Award for his short film ‘Hair Love’. He directed the independent feature film ‘The Last Fall’ which explores the challenges faced by an athlete after his career in the NFL ends. Cherry also directed ‘9 Rides’ which was shot entirely on a smartphone and tells a story set during a single night in Los Angeles. His work is known for its intimate look at modern life and its focus on underrepresented narratives. He has become a prominent voice in the next generation of Black filmmakers.

Jeymes Samuel

Jeymes Samuel is a musician and filmmaker who made a bold directorial debut with the stylized Western ‘The Harder They Fall’. The film features an all star Black cast and reimagines the traditional Western genre with modern music and high octane action. Samuel also composed the soundtrack and emphasized the historical reality of Black cowboys in the American West. The movie received critical praise for its visual flair and its fresh take on a classic film genre. He has quickly established himself as a director with a unique and powerful creative vision.

Cuba Gooding Jr.

Cuba Gooding Jr. is an Academy Award winning actor who made his directorial debut with the crime thriller ‘Bayou Caviar’. In addition to directing he also wrote the screenplay and starred in the film alongside a diverse cast. The story follows a former boxing champion who gets caught up in a dangerous criminal underworld. Gooding Jr. used the project to explore themes of redemption and the consequences of past choices. His work behind the camera shows a desire to tell gritty and complex character driven stories.

Mekhi Phifer

Mekhi Phifer is a well known actor who stepped into the director’s chair for the comedy film ‘Puff, Puff, Pass’. The movie follows two friends who find themselves in a series of comedic misadventures while trying to navigate their lives in Los Angeles. Phifer also starred in the film and showcased his ability to lead a comedic production with energy and timing. He has also directed episodes of television and continues to explore opportunities behind the camera. His directorial work adds another dimension to his long and successful career in the entertainment industry.

Tim Reid

Tim Reid is an actor and director who has been a pioneer in creating platforms for Black storytellers. He directed the critically acclaimed film ‘Once Upon a Time When We Were Colored’ which tells a story about life in a segregated community. Reid also founded a film studio in Virginia to encourage independent production outside of the traditional Hollywood system. His work often focuses on historical narratives and themes of community and identity. He remains an influential figure for his commitment to diverse and authentic storytelling.

Avery Brooks

Avery Brooks is highly respected for his acting work on ‘Star Trek Deep Space Nine’ where he also directed several pivotal episodes. He brought a unique theatrical sensibility to his directing work which helped define the tone of the series during its most complex story arcs. Brooks has also directed stage productions and is known for his deep commitment to the artistic process. His work behind the camera is characterized by a focus on character development and emotional resonance. He continues to be a mentor and inspiration to many in the creative arts community.

Damon Wayans

Damon Wayans is a legendary comedic actor who directed the film ‘Blankman’ which he also wrote and starred in. The movie is a parody of the superhero genre and follows a low tech crime fighter in an urban setting. Wayans showcased his unique brand of physical comedy and satire throughout the project. He has also directed episodes of his long running sitcom ‘My Wife and Kids’ and other television projects. His work as a director often reflects his ability to find humor in everyday situations and popular tropes.

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje

Adewale Akinnuoye Agbaje wrote and directed the autobiographical film ‘Farming’ based on his own childhood experiences. The story follows a young Nigerian boy who is sent to live with a white foster family in England and joins a skinhead gang. The film is a raw and powerful exploration of identity race and the search for belonging. Akinnuoye Agbaje received praise for his unflinching look at a difficult and deeply personal subject. His directorial debut established him as a filmmaker capable of handling intense and challenging material.

Romany Malco

Romany Malco is a talented actor who wrote directed and starred in ‘Tijuana Jackson Purpose Over Prison’. The film follows an ex convict with dreams of becoming a world famous motivational speaker. Malco used a mockumentary style to capture the comedic and sometimes poignant moments of the character’s journey. The project was funded in part by a successful crowdfunding campaign showing his strong connection with his audience. His work demonstrates a creative and independent approach to filmmaking that prioritizes original characters.

Sticky Fingaz

Sticky Fingaz is a member of the rap group Onyx and has developed a notable career as an actor and director. He directed the unique musical drama ‘A Day in the Life’ which is told entirely through rap dialogue. He followed this with ‘Caught on Tape’ which also utilizes a similar stylistic approach to crime storytelling. His work as a director is highly experimental and blends his musical roots with cinematic narrative in a way few others have attempted. He continues to push the boundaries of how stories can be told on screen.

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell is a beloved comedic actor who stepped behind the camera to direct the family comedy ‘Dance Fu’. The film combines elements of martial arts movies with comedic dance sequences and features a young protagonist on a quest for justice. Mitchell also starred in the film and brought his signature high energy performance style to the production. The project was aimed at younger audiences and showcased his ability to craft lighthearted and entertaining content. He remains an active figure in both acting and directing for various family oriented projects.

Saul Williams

Saul Williams is a poet musician and actor who co directed the visually stunning science fiction musical ‘Neptune Frost’. The film is set in a Rwandan village made of recycled computer parts and explores themes of technology and colonialism. Williams used his background in poetry and music to create a film that functions as a rhythmic and political statement. The project received widespread acclaim at various international film festivals for its originality and bold visual language. His work as a director is deeply artistic and challenges traditional cinematic conventions.

Share your favorite movies directed by these talented actor turned directors in the comments.