Road trips are the perfect backdrop for storytelling, especially for those serving as the passengers. That’s where a nice, curated list of movies for a road trip comes into play. No matter if it’s a daunting drive across a stretch of highways or a scenic trek through the southwestern deserts, entertainment is not simply to pass the time. It sets the backdrop to create new memories.
In Black character-led movies, travel tales often examine friends and family coming together for new experiences. The characters are immersed in laughter, life lessons, and a renewed love for one another. These movies don’t just display where the characters are headed, but reveal who they evolve into along the way. Whether it’s a family reunion or a long-overdue girls’ vacation, here are seven movies for a road trip to add to your watchlist.
Johnson Family Vacation (2004)
IMDb: 4.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 6%
Where to watch: The Roku Channel (Free with ads), Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV
This classic follows the colorful Johnson family as they hit the road for a cross-country trip beginning in California. The families final destination is Missouri. The purpose of this quirky trip is not just a quick getaway. The crew is attending their annual family reunion. Competitive dad Nate (Cedric the Entertainer) has bigger plans than simply catching up with distant cousins. He is determined to win the “Family of the Year” award, but he has to compete against the family of his older brother, Mack Johnson, portrayed by Cedric’s real-life close friend, Steve Harvey. Along for the ride are his wife Dorothy (Vanessa Williams) and their children DJ (Bow Wow), Nikki (Solange Knowles) and Destiny (Gabby Soleil). The movie packs all the essential road-trip chaos, including car troubles, detours, and the inevitable family bickering.
Girls Trip (2017)
IMDb: 6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 91%
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Peacock, FuboTV
Girls Trip is the famed Malcolm D. Lee-directed comedy that follows lifelong friends Ryan (Regina Hall), Sasha (Queen Latifah), Lisa (Jada Pinkett Smith), and Dina (Tiffany Haddish). The hilarious quartet reunites for a getaway to New Orleans during the Essence Festival. The fun is interrupted when they discover the latest infidelity of Ryan’s husband Stewart (Mike Colter). Through emotional revelations and emotional bonding, the women rediscover the strength of their friendship. Offering stunning festival views and a fun soundtrack, this blockbuster hit offers an authentic portrayal of Black sisterhood. With a sequel rumored to be on the horizon, Girls Trip is the perfect addition to your next road trips with girlfriends.
Poetic Justice (1993)
IMDb: 6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 35%
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Paramount+
In Poetic Justice, Janet Jackson shines as Justice. Viewers get to witness the young poet and hairstylist as she grieves the loss of her boyfriend. Though apprehensive, Justice accepts an invitation for a road trip with her friend Iesha (Regina King) from Los Angeles to Oakland. Accompanying them are Iesha’s boyfriend, Chicago (Joe Torry) and his co-worker, Lucky (Tupac Shakur). The plot adds a touch of humor with the crew traveling via a postal truck. A dramatic tone hangs over each character, as they clash and bond over various traumas and life goals. Directed by the late John Singleton, the film captures the essence of the early ’90s West Coast. With plenty of California views, Poetic Justice may be just what you need to get through those hours in the car.
Queen & Slim (2019)
IMDb: 7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 82%
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Peacock
Queen & Slim‘s the ultimate first date gone wrong love story, making it a perfect movie for a road trip. A modern-day Bonnie and Clyde tale, viewers meet lawyer Queen (Jodie Turner-Smith), who goes on a Tinder date with and photographer, Slim (Daniel Kaluuya). While their diner outing was uneventful, a traffic stop on their way to Queen’s home will change the course of their lives. Together, the pair will go on the run across the country to escape capture, driving through small Southern towns and open highways. Directed by Melina Matsoukas and written by Lena Waithe, the emotionally raw piece of cinema opens a dialogue for any long drive.
Are We There Yet? (2005)
IMDb: 4.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 12%
Where to watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV
Are We There Yet? highlights Nick (Ice Cube), a determined man on a road trip with a mission. The smooth-talking bachelor is in for a wild ride when he offers to drive the children of his love interest, Suzanne (Nia Long) from Portland to Vancouver. His only objective is to prove that he’s more than just a player. However, what he gets is a series of misfortunes on the road from interstate breakdowns to never-ending “Are we there yet?” interrogations from Suzanne’s daughter, Lindsey (Aleisha Allen), and son, Kevin (Philip Daniel Bolden). Directed by Brian Levant, this lighthearted humor is tailor-made for family vacations. For those who cannot get enough of Are We There Yet?, a 2007 sequel keeps the fun going, while a TBS series spin-off will also keep the kids entertained.
How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)
IMDb: 5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 51%
Where to watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV
How Stella Got Her Groove Back is a Black romance classic starring Angela Bassett. The movie follows Stella Payne, a hardworking yet overworked stockbroker and mother of one who takes a much-needed vacation to Jamaica. Accompanied by her best friend, Delilah (Whoopi Goldberg), the two enjoy the island and meet a charming chef assistant named Winston (Taye Diggs). While Stella is enamored with him, the age gap almost immediately turns her off. Despite being twenty years her junior, Stella takes a chance that changes her views on age and romance. Based on Terry McMillan’s novel, the film not only captures the beauty of Jamaica, but also examines a love story rooted in self-discovery. While the method of travel is by plane instead of car, How Stella Got Her Groove Back is a great escape.
Ride (1998)
IMDb: 4.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 72%
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV
Ride is a music business comedy centered on a group of aspiring entertainers from New York. Film school grad Leta (Melissa De Sousa) lands a job as an assistant to music video director Bleau Kelly (Downtown Julie Brown). When she is tasked with escorting a group of rappers, singers, and aspiring performers to Miami for a shoot, chaos ensues. Stuck together on a crumbling tour bus, the group travels from the Big Apple to Florida with fights and plenty of onboard chaos along the way. For fans of hip-hop and ‘90s nostalgia, Ride brings the two together in this fun throwback. Directed by Millicent Shelton, the cameos from Snoop Dogg and Fredo Star only add to the musical appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pass time on a road trip?
Passing time during a road trip is dependent upon the interests of the passengers. However, one great way to get through the hours is by watching movies on tablets or playing car games, such as The License Plate Game.
Does Netflix have a travel mode?
Netflix does have a travel mode. According to Netflix, users may sign in as normal. However, keep in mind, that when traveling outside the country, movie and show selection may vary.
Can I watch Netflix on a plane?
Netflix users can watch content on an airplace. The most effecient way to achieve this is by downloading the content beforehand to allow for offline watching. Even for planes equipped with Wi-Fi, streaming live from the app is not usually possible.
