Movies like The Butler

Spike Lee's epic biographical film about the African-American activist Malcolm X stars Denzel Washington in the title role. With its focus on civil rights and racial injustice, viewers who appreciated The Butler's historical context and rich storytelling will find similar themes explored here.

This harrowing true story of Solomon Northup, a free African-American man who was abducted and sold into slavery, presents a raw and profound picture of American history. Like The Butler, 12 Years a Slave confronts the brutal reality of race relations and the quest for freedom.

Set in Mississippi during the 1960s, The Help explores the racial tensions of the era through the eyes of African-American maids working in white households. Like The Butler, it combines a personal and political narrative that sheds light on the civil rights struggles of African Americans.

A poignant depiction of the real-life interracial couple, Richard and Mildred Loving, who fought for the right to live as a family in their hometown. Loving, like The Butler, touches on historic legal battles that shaped society's progression towards racial equality.