‘Django Unchained’: Quentin Tarantino’s provocative and acclaimed slavery revenge epic is sure to be one of the most polarizing films of the season. Jamie Foxx, Samuel L. Jackson and Kerry Washington lead an all-star cast in this Christmas Day release.

‘Beasts of the Southern Wild’: You likely missed this eclectic little indie gem about a small girl and her father struggling in a makeshift post-Hurricane community. Its young star Quevenzhane Wallis may just score an Oscar nomination. Look for this one on DVD and blu ray.

‘Flight’: Denzel Washington gives one of his deepest and most complex performances ever as an alcoholic pilot in this intense drama. Denzel is virtually guaranteed an Oscar nom for this one; it’s not to be missed.

‘Rise of the Guardians’: This animated film deserves your attention not just because it’s a fun diversion for kids but because its the rare movie of its kind directed by a black man — the so-called “Obama of animation,” Peter Ramsey.

‘Lincoln’: Steven Spielberg’s sprawling historical biopic, which focuses mainly on President Abraham Lincoln’s crusade for the 13th amendment — which outlawed slavery once and for all — is the leading contender for this year’s best actor and picture awards.

‘Silver Linings Playbook’: Another major awards contender, this romantic comedy-drama starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence also heralds a well-received supporting turn from comedian Chris Tucker, in his first non-’Rush Hour’ role in over a decade

‘Skyfall’: Chances are you have already seen the most successful James Bond film of all time. But it’s worth a second viewing just to fully appreciate Naomie Harris’ sexy turn as the new and improved Moneypenny.

‘Middle of Nowhere’: African-American filmmaker Ava DuVernay’s award-winning drama about a woman struggling to cope with a husband behind bars may not be the flashiest film on the block but it establishes a new black director and star (Emayatzy Corinealdi) to be reckoned with.

‘Zero Dark Thirty’: Ever wanted to learn the behind-the-scenes story of the hunt for bin Laden? This thriller, which has been widely hailed as the best movie of the year, exposes the not-so-pretty story behind the historic Obama triumph.

‘The Hobbit’: Peter Jackson’s latest installment in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ saga was criticized during its production for discriminating against black actors playing hobbits. Will the movie be good enough to redeem itself?