If you were moved by the heartwarming and inspiring true story of 'Lena: My 100 Children' (1987), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores films and series that share themes of resilience, compassion, and the power of one person to change countless lives. Whether you're drawn to historical dramas, biographical tales, or stories of extraordinary kindness, this list has something for you.

Sophie's Choice (1982)
Description: This film explores the devastating psychological and emotional scars left by traumatic wartime experiences, focusing on a woman's impossible decision and its lifelong repercussions.
Fact: Meryl Streep learned to speak Polish and German for the role, and her performance is often cited as one of the greatest in cinema history.


Schindler's List (1993)
Description: A powerful historical drama that explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the impact of one individual's actions during a time of immense suffering. The emotional depth and portrayal of human resilience resonate strongly.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white to reflect the documentary style of the era, and the girl in the red coat is one of the few instances of color in the movie.


Life Is Beautiful (1997)
Description: A poignant blend of humor and tragedy, this film showcases a father's efforts to shield his son from the horrors of their reality, emphasizing love and hope in the darkest times.
Fact: Roberto Benigni improvised many scenes, and the film was initially met with skepticism for its comedic approach to such a serious subject.


The Pianist (2002)
Description: This film delves into the harrowing experiences of a musician trying to survive in war-torn Warsaw, highlighting themes of perseverance and the human spirit's endurance against overwhelming odds.
Fact: Adrien Brody lost 30 pounds to portray the emaciated Władysław Szpilman and became the youngest actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor at the time.


The Book Thief (2013)
Description: A touching narrative about the transformative power of words and stories during a time of fear and oppression, seen through the eyes of a young girl.
Fact: The film's narration by Death gives a unique perspective on the events, blending melancholy with moments of beauty.


The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008)
Description: Through the innocent perspective of a child, this film portrays the tragic consequences of hatred and prejudice, emphasizing the loss of innocence and the bonds of friendship.
Fact: The film's ending was so emotionally intense that the crew reportedly needed time to recover after filming it.


The Diary of Anne Frank (1959)
Description: A moving adaptation of the famous diary, capturing the innocence and fear of a young girl hiding from persecution, with themes of family, hope, and the loss of childhood.
Fact: The film was shot on the same set as the Broadway play adaptation, and Millie Perkins was cast as Anne Frank despite having no prior acting experience.


Defiance (2008)
Description: A gripping tale of resistance and survival in the face of persecution, focusing on a group of Jewish partisans who fought back against their oppressors.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Bielski partisans, one of the most significant Jewish resistance efforts during the war.


Sarah's Key (2010)
Description: This film intertwines past and present to uncover a heartbreaking story of loss and remembrance, emphasizing the long-lasting impact of historical trauma.
Fact: The film is based on a bestselling novel that was inspired by the real-life Vel' d'Hiv Roundup in Paris during World War II.


The Zookeeper's Wife (2017)
Description: This film highlights the courage and compassion of individuals who risked everything to save others, showcasing the power of humanity in the midst of brutality.
Fact: The story is based on the real-life account of Antonina Żabińska, who saved hundreds of Jews by hiding them in the Warsaw Zoo.
