John Singleton (1968-2019) was an African-American film director, screenwriter, producer, and actor. He is known for writing and directing such films as Shaft (2000), Poetic Justice (1993), and Higher Learning (1995). His most notable film, Boyz n the Hood (1991), starring Cuba Gooding Jr. and Ice Cube, earned him two Oscar nominations (Best Director, Best Original Screenplay), an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Motion Picture, and is widely regarded as the most pivotal African-American-led film of all time.

Nobody really paid attention to John Singleton’s contributions to the film industry, except for Boyz n the Hood, until after he passed away in April of 2019, myself included. During his career, Singleton made some incredibly entertaining, and surprisingly powerful films. I highly recommend you watch Rosewood (1997), Poetic Justice, and Higher Learning. Singleton’s films paint a beautiful picture of an African-American life. Though it’s not always pretty, these films are an incredible journey from start to finish and they remind everyone that they have a voice.