Top 10 Films About Courage

Description: Oskar Schindler's transformation from a profiteer to a savior of over 1,000 Jewish refugees during the Holocaust is a profound display of moral courage against the backdrop of one of history's darkest periods.

Fact: The film was shot in black and white to give it a documentary feel, and Steven Spielberg donated his salary to the Shoah Foundation, which records testimonies of Holocaust survivors.

Description: William Wallace's fight for Scottish independence against the English is a classic tale of courage, leadership, and sacrifice for a greater cause.

Fact: Mel Gibson, who directed and starred in the film, was initially hesitant to take on the role due to his age, but his portrayal earned him an Academy Award for Best Director.

Description: This film captures the harrowing reality of World War II, focusing on a group of soldiers tasked with finding and bringing home a paratrooper whose brothers have been killed in action. Their journey is a testament to the courage required in the face of overwhelming odds.

Fact: The film's opening sequence, depicting the D-Day invasion, was so realistic that it caused PTSD symptoms in some veterans. Steven Spielberg used real amputees as extras to portray soldiers with severe injuries.

Description: Based on the true story of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist who survives the Holocaust by hiding in the ruins of Warsaw, this film illustrates the courage to survive against all odds.

Fact: Adrien Brody lost 30 pounds for the role and learned to play the piano, dedicating himself entirely to the character's experience.

Description: This film tells the real-life story of Chris Gardner, who, despite homelessness and poverty, pursues his dream of becoming a stockbroker, demonstrating the courage to never give up.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the movie, mirroring their real-life relationship.

Description: This heartwarming story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who becomes an All-American football player, showcases the courage to overcome personal and societal barriers.

Fact: The real Michael Oher was adopted by the Tuohy family, and the film was based on their book about the experience.

Description: This biographical drama showcases the courage of King George VI as he overcomes his stammer with the help of an unorthodox speech therapist, highlighting the personal bravery needed to lead a nation through war.

Fact: Colin Firth, who played King George VI, learned to stutter for the role, and the film was the first to be allowed to film inside the real Buckingham Palace.

Description: The story of Aron Ralston, who must make the ultimate decision to amputate his own arm to free himself from a boulder, showcases the extreme courage required for self-preservation.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual canyon where the real event took place, and James Franco performed many of the stunts himself.

Description: Based on the true story of a family caught in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, this film highlights the courage of a mother and her son as they fight for survival and reunion.

Fact: The film was shot in Thailand, where the actual tsunami occurred, and Naomi Watts was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance.

Description: This film recounts the true story of the Coast Guard's daring rescue of the crew from the SS Pendleton, showcasing the bravery of ordinary men in extraordinary circumstances.

Fact: The film was based on the book by Michael J. Tougias and Casey Sherman, and the actual rescue was one of the most daring in Coast Guard history.