Top 5 black directors you should know about

In a world defined by whitewashing, these five black directors showcase some of the best talent in Hollywood.

There are contemporary directors working today that everyone knows. From Christopher Nolan and Denis Villeneuve to veterans like Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese. These directors have undeniable talent. But, there is a whole network of black directorial talent in the film industry that doesn't get the recognition it deserves. In a business dominated by white, and for the most part, males, it's important to recognize true auteurs that don't get the recognition from Hollywood.

For this list, I took into consideration contemporary directors. This took out of consideration all-time greats like Charles Burnett and Oscar Micheaux. I also looked at the quality of their films beyond box office success and critical acclaim, but more in their success to generate conversation.

These five directors are some of the most talked about directors in the past few years and are directors who are not afraid to make films about important topics that trouble our society. They are risk takers, blending genres and addressing bold topics. They are creators, making some of the most original movies we have seen this century.  And they are auteurs, directors that know how to make good movies.

Click next to find out who they are!