10 Drama Films Exploring Social Mobility

Description: Will Hunting, a genius from South Boston, must navigate his way out of his working-class roots with the help of a therapist. The film explores themes of self-worth, education, and the potential for personal growth beyond one's circumstances.

Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck wrote the screenplay, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: This film follows Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman, as he struggles to provide for his son while pursuing a better life through an unpaid internship at a brokerage firm. It's a testament to the American Dream and the lengths one will go to achieve it.

Fact: Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, plays his son in the movie, adding a real-life father-son dynamic to the film.

Description: While not directly about social mobility, this film explores the fashion industry's ruthless hierarchy and the personal sacrifices made for career advancement. It's a satirical look at the world of high fashion and the quest for success.

Fact: Meryl Streep's performance as Miranda Priestly was inspired by Vogue editor Anna Wintour.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy, who is adopted by a wealthy family. His journey from the streets to the NFL highlights the transformative power of opportunity and support.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in this film.

Description: Based on the true story of Jordan Belfort, this film showcases the rise and fall of a stockbroker who builds an empire through fraud and excess. It's a dark look at the pursuit of wealth and the moral compromises made along the way.

Fact: The film was banned in Malaysia and Nepal due to its explicit content.

Description: F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel comes to life in this adaptation, exploring themes of wealth, love, and social climbing in the Roaring Twenties. Gatsby's quest for acceptance into the upper echelons of society is both tragic and aspirational.

Fact: The film's soundtrack was curated by Jay-Z, featuring contemporary artists like Lana Del Rey and Florence + The Machine.

Description: Set in the 1960s, this film examines the lives of African-American maids working for white families in Mississippi. It's a story of empowerment, change, and the slow but sure shift in social dynamics.

Fact: The film was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's novel, which was initially rejected by 60 literary agents.

Description: King George VI must overcome his stammer to lead his country through WWII. His journey from a reluctant monarch to a symbol of national unity showcases personal growth and the pressures of royal duty.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture, and Colin Firth won Best Actor for his portrayal of King George VI.

Description: This biopic of Stephen Hawking focuses on his relationship with his first wife, Jane, and his rise to fame as a physicist despite his debilitating illness. It's a story of intellectual and personal triumph over adversity.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking.

Description: Set in Mumbai, this film tells the story of Jamal Malik, an 18-year-old orphan from the slums, who becomes a contestant on the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" His journey reflects the harsh realities of poverty and the quest for upward mobility.

Fact: The film won 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was shot in the real slums of Mumbai.