500 Years Later (፭፻ ዓመታት በኋላ 500 ʿamätatə bähwala) is a 2005 independent documentary film directed by Owen 'Alik Shahadah and written by M. K. Asante, Jr.

[4] 500 Years Later has received praise and controversy, both for its creative documentary genre, and its social-political impact with relation to race study.

The film also gives insight into the struggles faced by continental Africans today, for instance in terms of poverty, disease, and corrupt governments.

While the continuing negative impact, influence, and effects of the trans-Atlantic slave trade are highlighted, scholars interviewed for the film express hope that "old scars can be healed" and Africans as a race will advance through education about their history.

The film begins with an adage that illustrates its historical theme: "Until lions tell their story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter."

The promotional page for the producer of the film describes it thusly: "500 Years Later is a compelling journey, infused with the spirit and music of liberation, that chronicles the struggle of a people from enslavement who continue to fight for the most essential human right - freedom.

[8] Those interviewed in the film criticize contemporary rap music as being particularly negative for Africans and their descendants, as they believe it reinforced racist stereotypes that were established in part because of the slave trade.

[12] Kingsley Sheteh, from A Neo-Copernican Review, asserts that 500 Years Later is a step in the right direction in depicting the relationship between the Western world and Africa, showcasing the historically dependent and underdeveloped status of African countries.

Shetah cites reasons that independent African state governments are heavily corrupted due to problems that can't simply be tied down to ideology, slavery, and colonialism.

While not exactly presenting new information, the documentary's delivery of the material and evidence is refreshing, meant to promote discussion among groups of people.