10 Must-Watch Drama Films About Poverty

Description: Based on John Steinbeck's novel, this film depicts the Joad family's journey from the Dust Bowl to California in search of work during the Great Depression.

Fact: John Ford won the Best Director Oscar for this film, and it's often cited as one of the greatest American films ever made.

Description: An Italian neorealist classic, this film follows a father and son's desperate search for a stolen bicycle, which is their only means of livelihood, in post-World War II Rome.

Fact: The film was shot on location with non-professional actors, giving it an authentic feel of the time's economic struggles.

Description: Set in the early 20th century, this film explores the life of Celie, an African-American woman living in rural Georgia, dealing with poverty, racism, sexism, and domestic violence.

Fact: Despite its critical acclaim, the film was not nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars, leading to some controversy.

Description: This film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman, as he fights to provide for his son while pursuing a better life. It's a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the movie, mirroring their real-life relationship. The film's title misspelling was intentional, reflecting the sign in the daycare where Chris leaves his son.

Description: "Precious" tells the story of an overweight, illiterate African-American girl from Harlem who faces numerous adversities including poverty, abuse, and discrimination. It's a raw depiction of survival and the quest for self-worth.

Fact: The film was adapted from the novel "Push" by Sapphire. Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry were instrumental in bringing this story to the screen.

Description: Randy "The Ram" Robinson, a washed-up professional wrestler, lives in a trailer park, struggling with financial instability and the physical toll of his past career.

Fact: Mickey Rourke's performance was highly praised, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Description: In the Ozark Mountains, a teenage girl named Ree must find her missing father to save her family from eviction, navigating a harsh world of poverty and methamphetamine production.

Fact: Jennifer Lawrence's breakout role, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress at the age of

Description: While not directly about poverty, "Room" deals with the aftermath of captivity, showing the struggle of a mother and son to adjust to life outside their small, confined world, reflecting themes of economic and emotional poverty.

Fact: Brie Larson won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Joy.

Description: Set in a budget motel near Disney World, this film captures the life of a young girl and her single mother living on the edge of poverty, offering a vibrant yet poignant look at childhood innocence amidst economic hardship.

Fact: The film was shot in a real motel, and many of the child actors were local kids from the area, adding authenticity to the portrayal of life in that environment.

Description: This film intertwines a rags-to-riches story with a quiz show, showcasing the harsh realities of life in Mumbai's slums while also celebrating the spirit of hope and love.

Fact: The film won 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and its soundtrack became incredibly popular worldwide.