10 Movies and Shows Similar to 12 Years a Slave (2013)

Description: 'Roots' shares with '12 Years a Slave' a deep exploration of the brutality of slavery and its impact on individuals and families. Both narratives are based on true stories, offering a harrowing look at the African American struggle for freedom and identity.

Fact: It was a groundbreaking miniseries that aired over eight consecutive nights. Based on Alex Haley's novel, which won a Pulitzer Prize. It remains one of the most-watched television events in U.S. history.

Description: Similar to '12 Years a Slave', 'The Color Purple' explores themes of oppression, resilience, and the African American experience during a time of racial and gender inequality. Both films depict the harsh realities of slavery and its aftermath, focusing on the strength and endurance of the human spirit.

Fact: Directed by Steven Spielberg, it was his first dramatic film. Based on Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Whoopi Goldberg made her film debut in this movie.

Description: 'Glory' shares with '12 Years a Slave' a focus on the African American experience during the Civil War era. Both films portray the resilience and courage of black individuals fighting against systemic oppression, whether through military service or personal survival.

Fact: Won three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Denzel Washington. Based on the true story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment. Features a memorable score by James Horner.

Description: 'Amistad' parallels '12 Years a Slave' in its depiction of the legal and moral struggles surrounding slavery. Both films are based on true events and emphasize the fight for justice and human dignity against a system designed to oppress.

Fact: Directed by Steven Spielberg. Features a powerful performance by Djimon Hounsou. The case depicted in the film was a pivotal moment in the abolitionist movement.

Description: Similar to '12 Years a Slave', 'Beloved' delves into the psychological and emotional scars left by slavery. Both films use haunting narratives to explore the legacy of trauma and the struggle for healing and identity.

Fact: Based on Toni Morrison's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Oprah Winfrey produced and starred in the film. The novel was inspired by the true story of Margaret Garner.

Description: 'Lincoln' complements '12 Years a Slave' by providing a political perspective on the abolition of slavery. Both films are set during the Civil War and highlight the moral and legal battles surrounding slavery.

Fact: Directed by Steven Spielberg. Daniel Day-Lewis won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Lincoln. Focuses on the passage of the 13th Amendment.

Description: Like '12 Years a Slave', 'Django Unchained' confronts the horrors of slavery head-on, though through Quentin Tarantino's signature stylized violence and dark humor. Both films highlight the dehumanization of slaves and the quest for liberation.

Fact: Won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay. Features an iconic performance by Christoph Waltz as Dr. King Schultz. The film's title is a reference to the 1966 spaghetti western 'Django'.

Description: 'The Birth of a Nation' mirrors '12 Years a Slave' in its unflinching portrayal of slavery's brutality and the fight for freedom. Both films are based on true stories and highlight the resilience and rebellion of enslaved individuals.

Fact: Written, directed, and produced by Nate Parker. The film's title is a deliberate contrast to D.W. Griffith's 1915 racist epic. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to critical acclaim.

Description: Like '12 Years a Slave', 'Harriet' tells the true story of an individual's extraordinary journey from slavery to freedom. Both films emphasize the courage and determination required to overcome the horrors of slavery.

Fact: Cynthia Erivo received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Harriet Tubman. The first feature film about Tubman's life. Features original songs performed by Erivo.

Description: Similar to '12 Years a Slave', 'The Underground Railroad' is a harrowing depiction of slavery and the quest for freedom. Both narratives use a mix of historical accuracy and creative storytelling to explore the depths of human suffering and resilience.

Fact: Based on Colson Whitehead's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Directed by Barry Jenkins. The series reimagines the Underground Railroad as an actual railroad.