10 Movies & Shows Like We Grown Now

Description: A raw and poignant portrayal of life in South Central Los Angeles, focusing on friendship, family, and the struggles of young Black men growing up in a tough environment.

Fact: John Singleton became the youngest person and the first African American to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director for this film. The movie's budget was only $

Description: A nostalgic and vibrant depiction of childhood in 1970s Brooklyn, capturing the joys and struggles of family life through the eyes of a young girl.

Fact: Spike Lee co-wrote the screenplay with his siblings, drawing from their own childhood experiences. The film features an original score by jazz musician Branford Marsalis.

Description: A humorous and heartfelt look at friendship and growing up in Inglewood, California, blending nostalgia with the challenges of transitioning into adulthood.

Fact: The film's title refers to the nickname for Inglewood, where the director, Rick Famuyiwa, grew up. Much of the dialogue was improvised by the cast.

Description: An uplifting story about a young girl overcoming obstacles to achieve her dreams, showcasing the importance of mentorship, education, and community support.

Fact: The film's script was initially written in 1999 but took years to secure funding. Laurence Fishburne, one of the producers, also starred in the film as Dr. Larabee.

Description: A heartfelt narrative about perseverance and hope, following a father and son navigating hardships while striving for a better future, emphasizing the bond between parent and child.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, whose memoir inspired the screenplay. The iconic basketball scene was improvised by Will Smith and his real-life son, Jaden Smith.

Description: A tender and authentic exploration of a young Black lesbian's journey toward self-acceptance, highlighting the complexities of identity and family relationships.

Fact: The film was expanded from a short of the same name, which also premiered at Sundance. Director Dee Rees drew from her own experiences growing up in Brooklyn.

Description: A powerful and intimate drama based on real events, highlighting systemic injustice and the impact of violence on a young man's life and his community.

Fact: The film's director, Ryan Coogler, was inspired to make the movie after hearing about the tragic shooting of Oscar Grant. It won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at Sundance.

Description: A fresh and energetic take on adolescence, following a geeky teen navigating life in a rough neighborhood while staying true to himself and his ambitions.

Fact: The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was acquired by Open Road Films for $7 million. It features a soundtrack curated by Pharrell Williams.

Description: A deeply emotional coming-of-age story that explores identity, family, and resilience in an urban setting, with a focus on the protagonist's personal growth amidst challenging circumstances.

Fact: Moonlight was the first LGBTQ+ film and the first film with an all-black cast to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. The film was shot in just 25 days.

Description: A gripping story about a young girl navigating dual identities and finding her voice after witnessing police brutality, emphasizing themes of activism and self-discovery.

Fact: The film is based on the bestselling novel by Angie Thomas, which was inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement. The title references Tupac Shakur's acronym 'THUG LIFE.'