10 Must-Watch Films Addressing Social Issues

Description: Based on John Grisham's novel, this film explores racial tensions and justice when a black father takes the law into his own hands after his daughter is brutally attacked.

Fact: The film was shot in Mississippi, where the story is set, to capture the authentic atmosphere of the Deep South.

Description: Set in the 1930s, this film explores themes of justice, racism, and the supernatural through the story of a death row corrections officer and an inmate with mysterious powers.

Fact: The film was adapted from Stephen King's novel of the same name, and its title refers to the green linoleum that covers the floor of the prison's death row.

Description: This drama delves into corporate ethics, media responsibility, and the personal cost of whistleblowing, as a tobacco executive exposes the industry's secrets.

Fact: The film was based on a Vanity Fair article about the real-life events involving Jeffrey Wigand and Lowell Bergman.

Description: This film follows the life of Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who struggles to provide for his son while pursuing a better life. It highlights themes of poverty, perseverance, and the American Dream.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith played father and son in this film, mirroring their real-life relationship. The film's title misspells "Happiness" to reflect the misspelling on the mural in the film.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a homeless African-American teenager who is taken in by a wealthy white family, highlighting issues of race, class, and the power of kindness.

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

Description: "Precious" tells the story of an overweight, illiterate African-American teenager who faces abuse, poverty, and neglect. It's a poignant look at the cycle of poverty and the resilience of the human spirit.

Fact: The film was adapted from the novel "Push" by Sapphire. It won two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Mo'Nique.

Description: Clint Eastwood stars as a Korean War vet who confronts his prejudices and forms an unlikely bond with his Hmong neighbors, exploring themes of racism, cultural misunderstanding, and redemption.

Fact: Eastwood performed most of his own stunts in the film, including driving the iconic Gran Torino.

Description: Set in the 1960s, "The Help" focuses on the lives of African-American maids working in white households in Mississippi, shedding light on racial discrimination and the civil rights movement.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

Description: This film captures the lives of children living in budget motels near Disney World, showcasing the stark contrast between poverty and the "magic" of Disney, and the innocence of childhood amidst economic hardship.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Florida, using real-life residents of the motels as extras.

Description: This film tells the true story of Brandon Teena, a trans man who was raped and murdered after his identity was discovered. It addresses issues of gender identity, violence, and acceptance.

Fact: Hilary Swank won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Brandon Teena.