Carmen Jones
Dorothy Dandridge plays the titular character in this underrated musical set at an all-black army camp. Every man has his sights set on Carmen Jones, but she chooses to seduce a married soldier about to depart for flight school. However, when Carmen's eyes wander elsewhere, devastation ensues. Dandridge became the first Black actress in a leading role to be nominated for an Oscar.
Dreamgirls
Dreamgirls was the film that proved Jennifer Hudson had what it take to escape the bounds of American Idol success. A musical trio is discovered by an ambitious manager who offers them the chance of a lifetime, but the women come to learn that fame and glamor can cost you everything.