10 Movies & Shows Like Kes (1970)

Description: A silent classic that explores the bond between a poor man and an abandoned child, highlighting themes of poverty, resilience, and the innocence of youth. The emotional core and social commentary align closely with the reference film.

Fact: Charlie Chaplin's first feature-length film as a director. The child actor, Jackie Coogan, became one of the first major child stars in Hollywood.

Description: A dark and atmospheric story of two children pursued by a sinister preacher, blending fairy-tale elements with stark realism. The film's exploration of childhood innocence under threat resonates with the reference film.

Fact: This was actor Charles Laughton's only directorial effort. The film's striking visual style was inspired by German Expressionism and silent films.

Description: This film beautifully depicts the innocence and hardships of childhood in a rural setting, focusing on the small yet profound moments that shape a young boy's life. The emotional depth and naturalistic storytelling mirror the reference film's tone.

Fact: It was Satyajit Ray's directorial debut and the first film in the Apu Trilogy. The production faced numerous financial difficulties, with Ray even pawning his wife's jewelry to complete the film.

Description: A poignant coming-of-age story that captures the struggles of a young boy navigating a harsh and indifferent world, much like the protagonist in the reference film. The raw, unfiltered portrayal of childhood adversity and societal neglect resonates deeply.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, drawing from director François Truffaut's own troubled childhood. It was the first in a series of five films following the same character, Antoine Doinel.

Description: A visually stunning tale of a boy's bond with a wild horse, set against the backdrop of adventure and survival. The film's emphasis on the purity of childhood connections and its breathtaking cinematography align with the reference film.

Fact: The film's famous shipwreck scene was shot in a massive water tank in Toronto. The horse, Cass Ole, was trained to act alongside the young boy, creating a believable and heartfelt relationship.

Description: A tender and humorous story of a young boy sent to live with relatives in the countryside, where he navigates loss and loneliness. The film's balance of melancholy and whimsy, and its focus on a child's resilience, mirrors the reference film.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Director. It is based on a semi-autobiographical novel by Reidar Jönsson.

Description: A gritty and poetic depiction of a young boy's life in a deprived urban environment, capturing both the beauty and brutality of his world. The film's lyrical yet raw approach to childhood adversity is similar to the reference film.

Fact: This was Lynne Ramsay's feature directorial debut. The film was shot on location in Glasgow, using natural light to enhance its realism.

Description: A heartfelt story of a family's struggles and dreams, centered around a young boy's relationship with his grandfather. The film's intimate portrayal of familial bonds and social challenges echoes the reference film's themes.

Fact: The film won the Special Jury Prize at the 2007 Venice Film Festival. Many of the actors were non-professionals, adding to the film's authentic and naturalistic feel.

Description: A touching story of a young boy's search for love and stability in a world that seems to have abandoned him. The film's focus on the child's perspective and the emotional weight of his journey is reminiscent of the reference film.

Fact: The film won the Grand Prix at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. The young lead actor, Thomas Doret, was discovered by the directors while he was playing in a park.

Description: A vibrant yet heartbreaking portrayal of childhood on the margins of society, seen through the eyes of a spirited young girl. The film's blend of joy and hardship, and its unflinching look at poverty, echoes the reference film's themes.

Fact: The film was shot on location in the actual motels near Disney World where the story is set. Many of the child actors were non-professionals, adding to the film's authenticity.