10 Biopics That Highlight Social Movements

Description: This epic biographical film traces the life of Mohandas K. Gandhi, from his early days in South Africa to his leadership of the Indian independence movement against British rule through nonviolent civil disobedience.

Fact: Ben Kingsley won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Gandhi. The film was shot in India, with many scenes filmed on location where historical events took place.

Description: This film is based on the true story of Erin Brockovich, a single mother who becomes a legal assistant and almost single-handedly brings down a California power company accused of polluting a city's water supply. It's a tale of environmental activism and personal triumph.

Fact: Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Erin Brockovich. The real Erin Brockovich made a cameo in the film.

Description: Meryl Streep stars as Margaret Thatcher in this biopic that explores her rise to power and her controversial policies, including her stance on social issues like union strikes and the Falklands War.

Fact: Meryl Streep won her third Academy Award for her performance. The film was criticized for its portrayal of Thatcher's later years with dementia.

Description: "Milk" tells the story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, and his fight for gay rights in the 1970s. The film captures the essence of his activism, his assassination, and the legacy he left behind.

Fact: Sean Penn won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Harvey Milk. The film was shot on location in San Francisco, where Milk's story unfolded.

Description: This film chronicles the historic 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., to secure equal voting rights for African Americans. It's a poignant portrayal of the civil rights movement, highlighting the determination and courage of those who fought for justice.

Fact: Oprah Winfrey, who plays Annie Lee Cooper, was also one of the film's producers. The film was nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars.

Description: While not strictly a social movement film, "Invictus" captures Nelson Mandela's use of the 1995 Rugby World Cup to unite a post-apartheid South Africa, showcasing his leadership in promoting reconciliation and social cohesion.

Fact: Morgan Freeman, who plays Mandela, was personally chosen by Mandela for the role. The film was shot in South Africa, with many scenes filmed at the actual locations of the events depicted.

Description: This film follows Cecil Gaines, a White House butler who served eight presidents over three decades. It provides a unique perspective on the civil rights movement, as Cecil witnesses history unfold from the sidelines while his son becomes deeply involved in activism.

Fact: Oprah Winfrey and Forest Whitaker star in this film, which was inspired by the true story of Eugene Allen, a White House butler.

Description: Set in the 1960s, "The Help" tells the story of African American maids working in white households in Mississippi, and their contributions to the civil rights movement through their stories and the book they help write.

Fact: The film was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's novel of the same name. It was nominated for four Academy Awards.

Description: This film focuses on the life of Cesar Chavez, a Latino American civil rights activist who co-founded the United Farm Workers. It highlights his non-violent tactics to fight for better working conditions for farm laborers.

Fact: Michael Peña, who plays Chavez, learned Spanish for the role, as Chavez was fluent in both English and Spanish.

Description: Set in early 20th century London, "Suffragette" follows the lives of women fighting for the right to vote. It's a powerful depiction of the suffragette movement, showcasing the personal sacrifices and the collective strength of women.

Fact: Meryl Streep plays Emmeline Pankhurst, but her role was limited due to scheduling conflicts. The film was shot in various locations around London to authentically capture the era.