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Every year the National Film Registry selects 25 films for preservation in the Library of Congress that are considered “culturally, historically or aesthetically” important to our country.
In 2011, three important African-American films were selected for this prestigious honor – “The Negro Soldier,” “Porgy and Bess” and the “Nicholas Brothers Family Home Movies.”
“The Negro Soldier” (1944)
 In early movies, African Americans were typically depicted in a stereotypical manner. However, the 1944 film “The Negro Soldier” broke ground by portraying Black Americans as dignified and courageous. Produced by Frank Capra, directed by Stuart Heisler, and written by African-American author Carlton Moss, this documentary (told from the point of view of a church congregation), follows the evolution of black soldiers from basic training to combat and encourages able-bodied black men to join the World War II armed forces and fight the Nazis. The lasting message of the “The Negro Soldier” focuses on racial equality rather than inequality.
“Porgy and Bess” (1959)
 The 1959 American musical “Porgy and Bess,” directed by Otto Preminger, is based on the 1935 folk opera “Porgy and Bess” that was composed by George Gershwin. The all-star cast includes Sidney Poitier, Dorothy Dandridge, Sammy Davis, Jr., Pearl Bailey, and Diahann Carroll. Set in the fictitious slum of “Catfish Row” and controversial in its subject matter, “Porgy and Bess” was accused of stereotypical black portrayals. Nevertheless, this musical is considered an “overlooked masterpiece” and has won many awards including the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture.
“Nicholas Brothers Family Home Movies” (1930s-40s)
 Dancing brothers Fayard and Harold Nicholas got their start in Vaudeville and later appeared in Harlem, on Broadway and in Hollywood films, such as “Stormy Weather” and “Down Argentine Way.” Self-taught and considered two of the greatest African American dancers of all time, the Nicholas Brothers created daring and unusual combinations of tap dancing, ballet and gymnastics that produced a number of signature moves. “Nicholas Brothers Family Home Movies” captures rare footage of them. They're shown performing inside Harlem’s “The Cotton Club” and in Broadway shows such as “Babes in Arms.” Footage also includes African American World War II soldiers, Harlem street life, a 1934 cross-country tour and more.
These three films are small examples of African-American’s talent, artistic and cultural contributions to the movie industry and we celebrate their selection into the national registry.
See a Complete List of African-American Films in the National Film Registry
Please visit our article “African-American Films in the National Film Registry” to see a complete list of Black Classic Films that have been added over the years.
Films Available on DVD
At this time, only one of these three films is available on DVD. (If the other movies become available, we will update this page with information.)
 Buy "The Negro Soldier" on DVD
This 1944 documentary about Black soldiers
was groundbreaking for its time because of
its non-stereotypical depiction of Black men.
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for purchase details.
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