Angela Davis: Portrait of a Revolutionary
This documentary, directed by one of Davis’ former students, shows the outspoken activist speaking at public rallies and interacting with her students.
The Godmother of Rock & Roll: Sister Rosetta Tharpe
The film explores the life, music, and influence of the pioneering queer guitarist.
Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami
A documentary profile of the multihyphenate pop culture icon Grace Jones.
In the past, Jones has had relationships with both men and women.
Beyond Tara: The Extraordinary Life of Hattie McDaniel
Narrated by Whoopi Goldberg, the hour-long documentary examines the life of the first African-American performer to win an Oscar.
In her heyday McDaniel is said to have been a part of the Sewing Circle, a group of closeted Hollywood actresses.
Zora Neale Hurston: Jump at the Sun
Premiering on PBS’ American Masters series, the 83-minute biography examines the life and career of anthropologist, folklorist, and author Zora Neale Hurston. Hurston is widely considered to have been bisexual.
Billie Holiday: The Long Night of Lady Day
The 90-minute documentary uses archival footage, old photographs, and interviews to chronicle the tragic life of the openly bisexual blues singer Billie Holiday.
Moms Mabley: I Got Somethin' to Tell You
Whoopi Goldberg’s directorial debut highlights the work and influence of the African-American and openly lesbian stand-up comedienne Moms Mabley.
Alberta Hunter: My Castle's Rockin'
The hour-long documentary traces the remarkable career of noted jazz singer Alberta Hunter.
Before Stonewall Documentary
The 1984 documentary chronicles the history of the LGBT community before the 1969 Stonewall riots. Gladys Bentley, Mabel Hampton, and Audre Lorde are all featured.
Pay It No Mind: Marsha P. Johnson
The 2012 documentary from Michael Kasino pays tribute to revolutionary trans-activist, Marsha “Pay it No Mind” Johnson.
Lorraine Hansberry: Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart
Directed by Tracy Strain and narrated by Anika Noni Rose, the documentary uses Hansberry’s personal archives to explore the life and artistry of the playwright.
A Litany For Survival: the Life and Work of Audre Lorde
The 1995 documentary from filmmakers Ada Gay Griffin & Michelle Parkerson offers an intimate look at Lorde, who was once self-described as "Black lesbian, mother, warrior, poet."