Black Is King: A Film By Beyonce Is Visually Stunning

Black Is King: A Film By Beyonce is now available to watch on Disney+. This movie is a visual album and is absolutely stunning.

At first, I really did not know what to think of Black Is King: A Film By Beyonce. When I saw the trailer I was a little confused by what it even was. But then as soon as I realized it was a visual album, it made so much more sense to me. I was hesitant in watching it, but decided to dive right in the day it was released on Disney+. And I am so glad that I did.

If there is one thing to be said about Black Is King, it’s that it is visually stunning — from beginning to end. The whole thing. Every single outfit that Beyonce wears is just absolutely beautiful. She is a gorgeous woman, there is no debating that. And the other dancers she surrounds herself with are just as good looking, in my opinion. 

The dance numbers are outstanding as well. Say what you will but Beyonce puts on a damn good show. I was thoroughly entrained from beginning to end, and found myself unable to look away from the screen. There are a lot of collaborations as well — Lupita Nyong’o, Kelly Rowland (above), and even Jay-Z. 

In regards to the music itself? Honestly, I found myself swaying in my seat and tapping my toes as it went on. I admit, I have never been a giant Beyonce fan. Not to say she isn’t talented, because she is. I am just more of an Alternative and Country music type girl (yeah, I know… ). But this really opened my ears to different types of music. I just might be changing the station in my car more often now.

There is one part that I would totally skip if I were to watch it again. The celestial stuff. If you have seen it, you know what I am talking about. For me, it felt a little weird and out of place. However, it doesn’t make this not worth a watch. Trust me.

Overall Thoughts

Viewers shouldn’t come into Black Is King expecting an actual movie with an actual plot. However, they will get an absolutely stunning visual and musical journey. This is very much a celebration of Black Lives Matter — but also so much more. It is a declaration of the beauty of Black. Which my friend Amanda gets into when she discusses why white people need to watch Black Is King.

Black Is King is a combination of music videos, The Lion King voice clips that deliver powerful moments, and Black history and traditions. The commentary feels very strong and powerful, and is likely going to be moving for most people.

Is it a fantastic movie? No. Because it isn’t a movie. It is a visual album and don’t expect more than that. if you are a Beyonce fan this is definitely worth a watch. If you aren’t? Well, still check it out. I wasn’t before this, but I know I will be listening to more of her music now.

About Black Is King

“Black Is King,” a visual album by 24-time GRAMMY® Award-winner Beyoncé Knowles-Carter based on the music of “The Lion King: The Gift,” reimagines the lessons from Disney’s global phenomenon for today’s young kings and queens in search of their own crowns. “Black Is King” was in production for one year and features a cast and crew that represent diversity and connectivity.

Filmed in various locations, the visual album’s cinematography captures beautiful people and landscapes across continents, starting in New York, then Los Angeles, South Africa, West Africa, London and Belgium. From all those places came an extraordinary cast of actors and dancers that influenced the visual album’s rich tableau and vibrant choreography.

A celebratory memoir for the world on the black experience, “Black Is King” includes full-length videos for the song “My Power” and more.

Watch Black Is King on Disney+ now!