Family Films About Prostitutes: A Unique Perspective

Description: This film, based on Alice Walker's novel, includes themes of abuse and prostitution but focuses on resilience, sisterhood, and empowerment, making it a powerful choice for family discussions on these topics.

Fact: Whoopi Goldberg received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role as Celie. The film was directed by Steven Spielberg.

Description: This iconic film tells the story of Vivian Ward, a prostitute who meets and falls in love with a wealthy businessman, Edward Lewis. It's included for its uplifting narrative and the transformation of its characters, offering a family-friendly look at redemption and love.

Fact: Julia Roberts was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Vivian. The film was initially intended to be a dark drama but was rewritten as a romantic comedy.

Description: This legal thriller involves a young boy who becomes entangled with a prostitute and a mob lawyer. It's included for its engaging plot and the moral dilemmas it presents, suitable for family discussions on ethics and justice.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by John Grisham. Susan Sarandon was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Reggie Love.

Description: Although not strictly a family film, this movie explores the relationship between a suicidal alcoholic and a prostitute, offering a deep, emotional narrative about redemption and human connection that can be discussed in a family setting with older children.

Fact: Nicolas Cage won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ben Sanderson. The film was adapted from the semi-autobiographical novel by John O'Brien.

Description: This adaptation of W. Somerset Maugham's novel features a subplot involving a brothel, providing a backdrop for themes of forgiveness, duty, and love. It's a beautifully shot film with a compelling narrative for mature family audiences.

Fact: The film was shot on location in China, capturing the beauty of the country. Edward Norton and Naomi Watts deliver powerful performances.

Description: This historical drama about Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, includes elements of her life where she was involved with a man who frequented prostitutes, offering a nuanced look at societal expectations and personal freedom.

Fact: Keira Knightley's performance as Georgiana was widely praised, and the film was nominated for three Academy Awards. The costumes were designed by Michael O'Connor, who won an Oscar for his work.

Description: While not directly about prostitution, this film includes a subplot involving a character who was once a prostitute, highlighting themes of second chances and the beauty of aging. It's a feel-good movie with a diverse cast, perfect for family viewing.

Fact: The film was so successful that it spawned a sequel, "The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel." It features an ensemble cast of British acting legends.

Description: While not a traditional family film, this adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel includes characters with complex backgrounds, including prostitution, offering a gritty yet compelling story for older teens and adults.

Fact: The film was directed by David Fincher and features a haunting score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. Rooney Mara's performance as Lisbeth Salander was critically acclaimed.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Mark O'Brien, a poet paralyzed from the neck down, who hires a sex surrogate, Cheryl Cohen-Greene, to lose his virginity. It's a poignant exploration of human connection and intimacy, suitable for mature family audiences.

Fact: Helen Hunt won the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Cheryl. The film was critically acclaimed for its sensitive handling of the subject matter.

Description: This political drama includes a subplot involving a character's past as a prostitute, exploring themes of political integrity, personal history, and public perception, suitable for older family members.

Fact: Joan Allen was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Senator Laine Hanson. The film was written and directed by Rod Lurie.