2025 NAACP Image Awards: The Outstanding Motion Picture Nominees You Need to Know
The NAACP Image Awards 2025 are almost here, and you already know it will be a night filled with Black talent across industries.
Airing February 22 at 8 PM on BET, the annual celebration will spotlight the biggest achievements in film, television, music, and literature—honoring the artists, storytellers, and creatives who continue to push culture forward.
This year’s Outstanding Motion Picture category is stacked with must-see films that captivated audiences this past year. From the action-packed return of “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” to the moving adaptation of “The Piano Lesson,” the competition is fierce. We’re breaking down all the nominees in this category, so keep reading to see which films are in the running for one of the night’s top honors.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
The dynamic duo of Mike Lowrey (Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Martin Lawrence) return with even higher stakes and more explosive action.
“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” combines the high-octane thrills fans love with an emotional undercurrent that deepens the characters we’ve grown to cherish over decades.
Bob Marley: One Love
This heartfelt biopic takes us into the life of reggae legend Bob Marley, played by Kingsley Ben-Adir, offering an intimate look at his journey from a young dreamer in Jamaica to an international icon of peace, love, and revolution. With electrifying performances and a soundtrack that pulses with Marley’s timeless hits, “Bob Marley: One Love” is a must-see.
The Piano Lesson
August Wilson’s acclaimed play is reimagined in this stunning adaptation, bringing its timeless themes of legacy and family to a new audience. Featuring an all-star cast, “The Piano Lesson” delves into the tension between holding onto the past and embracing the future.
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The Six Triple Eight
This historical drama shines a light on the heroic efforts of the all-Black, all-female 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II. Known as “The Six Triple Eight,” these trailblazing women overcame prejudice and impossible odds to deliver hope to millions of soldiers and families. Directed by Tyler Perry, this powerful film is a moving tribute to unsung
Wicked
The beloved Broadway musical gets a cinematic treatment that’s nothing short of magical. “Wicked” explores the untold story of the witches of Oz, blending stunning visuals, unforgettable music, and a poignant narrative about friendship, identity, and the nature of good and evil. With its inclusive casting and bold reimagining, this adaptation breathes new life into a timeless tale.
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
