10 Drama Films About Correcting Mistakes

Description: This timeless classic tells the story of Andy Dufresne, who is wrongfully convicted of murder and sent to Shawshank Prison. Over the years, he forms an unlikely friendship with fellow inmate Ellis "Red" Redding, and together they navigate the harsh realities of prison life while Andy seeks to clear his name and find redemption.

Fact: The film was not a box office hit upon release but has since become one of the most beloved films of all time, often topping IMDb's Top 250 list. The iconic scene where Andy plays opera music over the prison loudspeakers was improvised by director Frank Darabont.

Description: In this adaptation of Stephen King's novel, a death row corrections officer experiences a series of supernatural events that lead him to question his life's choices and seek redemption for his past actions.

Fact: The film's title refers to the green linoleum that covers the floor of the prison's death row. Michael Clarke Duncan, who played John Coffey, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: Set against the backdrop of Afghanistan's turbulent history, this film follows Amir, who, as an adult, returns to his homeland to confront his past and attempt to make amends for his betrayal of his childhood friend Hassan.

Fact: The film was shot in China due to security concerns in Afghanistan. The book on which it's based was banned in some countries for its depiction of life under the Taliban.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who takes custody of his son while pursuing a career in stockbroking. Despite facing numerous setbacks, Chris's determination to provide a better life for his son drives him to overcome his past mistakes and achieve his dreams.

Fact: Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, played his on-screen son in the film, adding a real-life father-son dynamic to their performances. The film's title misspells "Happiness" intentionally, reflecting the sign Chris Gardner saw in real life.

Description: Atonement explores the devastating consequences of a young girl's lie, which leads to the separation of two lovers. As Briony Tallis grows up, she realizes the gravity of her mistake and spends her life trying to atone for it, weaving a narrative of guilt, love, and the quest for forgiveness.

Fact: The film's famous five-minute continuous shot at Dunkirk was meticulously planned and took three days to film. Keira Knightley and James McAvoy, who play the star-crossed lovers, had to learn to type on vintage typewriters for their roles.

Description: Michael Oher, a homeless African-American teenager, is taken in by a well-to-do white family. They help him overcome his past and nurture his talent for football, leading to a story of personal redemption and success.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The real Michael Oher was present at the premiere and was moved by the film's portrayal of his life.

Description: In post-World War II Germany, a young man has an affair with an older woman who later turns out to have been involved in the Holocaust. Years later, he must confront the truth about her past and his own complicity in silence.

Fact: Kate Winslet won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Hanna Schmitz. The film was adapted from Bernhard Schlink's novel of the same name.

Description: Matt King, a wealthy landowner in Hawaii, must deal with his comatose wife's infidelity and the decision about selling their family land. Through this journey, he seeks to mend his relationship with his daughters and find a way to move forward from his wife's mistakes.

Fact: George Clooney won a Golden Globe for his performance in this film, and it was also nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The film was shot entirely in Hawaii, showcasing its natural beauty.

Description: Charlie, a shy and introverted high school freshman, navigates the complexities of adolescence, friendship, and love, learning to overcome his past traumas and find his place in the world.

Fact: The film's author, Stephen Chbosky, also directed the movie, ensuring a faithful adaptation of his book. The film's soundtrack features songs from the '80s and '90s, reflecting the time period of the story.

Description: Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teenager with terminal cancer, falls in love with Augustus Waters, a former basketball player with a prosthetic leg. Together, they embark on a journey to live life to the fullest, correcting the mistakes of not living enough.

Fact: The film was shot in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where the story is set. Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort, who play Hazel and Augustus, had previously starred together in "Divergent."