Pop Art: New Black Books, TV and Movies

The world is always in need of diverse voices and perspectives, and Black creatives keep elevating the entertainment industry as a whole. We explore it all through BLAC Pop Art, with thought-provoking books, captivating TV shows, movies, chart-topping music and groundbreaking art, there is no shortage of Black excellence to be enjoyed. This Pop Art guide takes a look at some of the most recent, hottest and anticipated Black culture releases.

Books

“Above Ground” by Clint Smith:

The poems in this collection explore what it means to be Black in America. Through poetry, Smith examines the complexities of identity, the weight of history, and the struggle for justice in a society still marked by racism and inequality. 

“Butter” by Gayl Jones:

“Butter” is a wide-ranging collection of poems, stories, and novellas that explore complex identities. These narratives tell the stories of Black, Brown, and Indigenous men and women in South America, Mexico, and the U.S. These characters come from a wide range of diverse backgrounds, including spies, photographers, cartoonists, environmentalists, feminists, baristas, poets, and artists.

TV Shows

• “Truth be Told”: This show chronicles the life of true crime podcaster Poppy Parnell as she reopens a murder case that she once helped solve. Poppy takes a deep dive into the web of lies and secrets surrounding the case. The show features an star-studded ensemble cast that includes Octavia Spencer, Kate Hudson, and Mekhi Phifer. Release date: January 20, 2023 (Apple TV).
• “Snowfall”: The eagerly-awaited sixth and final season of “Snowfall” debuted in February and charts the fortunes of the Saint Family empire as they navigate a perilous path. Release date: February 22, 2023 (FX and Hulu).
• “Bel-Air”: Following an emotional season one finale that saw Will reconnect with his long-absent father, portrayed by Marlon Wayans, the reimagined drama series based on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” is set to explore the complex relationships and personal struggles of its beloved characters in its second season. Release date: February 23, 2023 (Peacock).
• “UnPrisoned”: Kerry Washington plays Paige, a therapist and single mom whose life is turned upside down when her father, newly released from prison, moves in with her and her teenage son. The show explores themes of family, forgiveness, and the criminal justice system’s lasting impact. Release date: March 10, 2023 (Hulu).

Movies:

• “Luther: The Fallen Sun”: Idris Elba plays John Luther, a brilliant but disgraced detective who finds himself locked up in prison while a vicious serial killer terrorizes the streets of London. Driven by a deep sense of responsibility and haunted by his past failures, Luther escapes from prison and sets out to capture the killer. Release date: March 10, 2023 (Netflix).
• “The Strays”: A light-skinned Black woman’s life of privilege starts unraveling when two suspicious strangers show up in her quaint town. Neve’s carefully curated life starts falling apart when her troubled past resurfaces. Release date: February 22, 2023 (Netflix).

• “The Woman King”: This historical epic tells the story of the legendary all-female military unit known as the Amazons and their fierce and fearless leader, general Nanisca. The film is inspired by true events. Release date: February 16, 2023 (Netflix).
• “Emancipation”: Inspired by the personal account of a slave named Peter (Will Smith), “Emancipation” follows a man’s quest for freedom while keeping a strong sense of self amid brutality. Release date: December 9, 2022 (Apple TV).