The American Society of Magical Negroes 2024

Movie · 105 min · English · January 19, 2024

Directed by Kobi LibiiWritten by Kobi Libii

Starring Justice Smith, David Alan Grier, An-Li Bogan, Drew Tarver, Michaela Watkins

The American Society of Magical Negroes is a 2024 American comedy film that mocks the Magical Negro stereotype by following a young man who enters a hidden organization of magical African Americans dedicated to improving white people's lives. The film was written and directed by Kobi Libii in his first feature-film effort, and it features Justice Smith, David Alan Grier, and An-Li Bogan in leading roles.

The movie was produced by Sight Unseen and Juba Lane, with Kobi Libii among its four producers. The production team included production designer Laura Fox, cinematographer Doug Emmett, editor Brian Olds, and composer Michael Abels. Principal photography occurred mostly in the Arts District of Los Angeles, with the Los Angeles Theater functioning as a main setting for the secretive Institute scenes. The design contrasted the Institute’s old-world and mystical ambiance with the contemporary, satirical tone of MeetBox. The cinematography referenced classic "Magical Negro" movies, merging Afro-centric visuals with modern cinematic methods.

The film debuted on January 19, 2024 at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, followed by a U.S. theatrical release from Focus Features on March 15, 2024. Box office earnings were recorded as . Critics offered mixed responses to the film. According to Rotten Tomatoes, reviewers found that although the idea was engaging, the movie did not fully develop its more complex themes.