10 Movies and Shows Similar to Detachment (2011)

Description: Similar to 'Detachment' in its portrayal of a teacher transforming the lives of disadvantaged students through understanding and respect. Both films deal with racial and class tensions in education.

Fact: Sidney Poitier's character was based on a real teacher, E.R. Braithwaite. Lulu sang the title song which became a #1 hit. The film was shot in London's East End.

Description: Like 'Detachment,' this film explores adolescent alienation and the complex inner lives of students. Both use a school setting to examine broader societal pressures on young people.

Fact: Shot in sequence over just six weeks. The library scenes were filmed in a real high school on weekends. John Hughes wrote the script in just two days.

Description: Shares with 'Detachment' themes of inspirational teaching and the conflict between institutional education and personal growth. Both films feature teachers who use unconventional methods to reach their students.

Fact: Robin Williams improvised many of his teaching scenes. The phrase 'Carpe Diem' became widely popular after the film. Shot at St. Andrew's School in Delaware.

Description: Shares with 'Detachment' the theme of a teacher reaching out to troubled students in a challenging school setting. Both films deal with issues of poverty, violence, and the struggle to make education relevant.

Fact: Inspired by the autobiography of LouAnne Johnson. The film's soundtrack featured Coolio's 'Gangsta's Paradise.' Michelle Pfeiffer performed many of her own stunts.

Description: Shares with 'Detachment' themes of wasted potential, the healing power of mentorship, and the struggle to overcome personal trauma. Both feature brilliant but troubled protagonists.

Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck wrote the script together. Robin Williams' Oscar-winning role was originally offered to Bill Murray. The bar scenes were filmed in a real Boston pub.

Description: Like 'Detachment,' this film focuses on a teacher's efforts to connect with and inspire at-risk students. Both highlight the transformative power of education and the challenges faced by educators in difficult environments.

Fact: Based on a true story. Hilary Swank spent time with the real Erin Gruwell to prepare for her role. The students' diaries from the real-life class were published as a book.

Description: Similar to 'Detachment' in its exploration of education's purpose and the complex relationships between teachers and students. Both films question traditional teaching methods and value systems.

Fact: Based on Alan Bennett's play of the same name. Most of the original stage cast reprised their roles. The film explores the value of knowledge versus exam results.

Description: Similar to 'Detachment' in its portrayal of a troubled educator and the emotional struggles of students in an underprivileged environment. Both films explore themes of personal demons, redemption, and the impact of mentorship.

Fact: Ryan Gosling received an Academy Award nomination for his role. The film was shot in just 20 days. The director, Ryan Fleck, was inspired by a documentary about a middle school in Brooklyn.

Description: Similar to 'Detachment' in its raw portrayal of urban hardship and the role of education as a potential escape. Both films feature protagonists dealing with severe trauma and finding solace in creative expression.

Fact: Based on the novel 'Push' by Sapphire. Gabourey Sidibe was a college student with no acting experience when cast. Mo'Nique won an Oscar for her supporting role.

Description: Like 'Detachment,' this film explores adolescent trauma, mental health issues, and the healing power of human connection. Both feature protagonists who are observers of life struggling to engage with it.

Fact: Written and directed by the novel's author, Stephen Chbosky. Emma Watson's first major role after Harry Potter. Filmed in Pittsburgh where the story is set.