If you were moved by the inspiring documentary 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' (2020), you might be looking for more films and shows that celebrate activism, civil rights, and the power of perseverance. This article highlights 10 similar movies and documentaries that share the same spirit of courage, justice, and the fight for equality. Whether you're a history buff, a social justice advocate, or simply love powerful storytelling, these recommendations will keep you engaged and inspired.

Eyes on the Prize (1987)
Description: Like 'John Lewis: Good Trouble,' 'Eyes on the Prize' is a comprehensive documentary series that chronicles the civil rights movement in the United States. Both works highlight key figures and events that shaped the fight for racial equality, providing historical context and personal narratives.
Fact: The series won numerous awards, including Emmy and Peabody Awards. It was produced by Blackside, Inc., a company founded by Henry Hampton. The title is inspired by a folk song associated with the civil rights movement.


Malcolm X (1992)
Description: Spike Lee's biopic of Malcolm X shares themes with 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' as both films explore the lives of influential civil rights leaders. While Malcolm X advocated for more radical change, both figures were pivotal in the fight for racial justice.
Fact: Denzel Washington stars as Malcolm X. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards. Spike Lee co-wrote the screenplay with Arnold Perl.


The Butler (2013)
Description: This historical drama parallels 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' by chronicling the civil rights movement through the eyes of a White House butler. Both films provide a personal perspective on the broader struggle for equality.
Fact: The film stars Forest Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey. It is loosely based on the life of Eugene Allen. The movie spans several decades of American history.


Fruitvale Station (2013)
Description: This film, like 'John Lewis: Good Trouble,' addresses issues of racial injustice and police violence. 'Fruitvale Station' tells the true story of Oscar Grant, whose death sparked outrage and protests, similar to the events John Lewis fought against.
Fact: The film was Ryan Coogler's directorial debut. It stars Michael B. Jordan as Oscar Grant. The movie won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.


The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution (2015)
Description: This documentary shares similarities with 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' as both explore the civil rights movement and the fight for racial equality. 'The Black Panthers' focuses on the radical activism of the Black Panther Party, while 'Good Trouble' highlights John Lewis's nonviolent approach. Both films emphasize the importance of activism and the struggle for justice.
Fact: The film features rare archival footage of the Black Panther Party. It includes interviews with former members of the party. The documentary was directed by Stanley Nelson, a renowned filmmaker known for his work on African American history.


Just Mercy (2019)
Description: Like 'John Lewis: Good Trouble,' 'Just Mercy' is a powerful story about fighting for justice and equality. The film follows Bryan Stevenson's work to defend wrongfully convicted individuals, echoing John Lewis's lifelong commitment to civil rights.
Fact: The film stars Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx. It is based on Bryan Stevenson's memoir. The movie highlights the flaws in the American criminal justice system.


Marshall (2017)
Description: This biographical film about Thurgood Marshall shares similarities with 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' as both depict the lives of pioneering African American leaders in the fight for civil rights. Both films highlight the legal and political battles that shaped the movement.
Fact: Chadwick Boseman stars as Thurgood Marshall. The film focuses on one of Marshall's early cases as a lawyer. It was directed by Reginald Hudlin.


The Hate U Give (2018)
Description: This narrative film shares themes with 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' by addressing police brutality and racial injustice. Both works emphasize the importance of speaking out against injustice and the power of youth activism.
Fact: The film is based on the bestselling novel by Angie Thomas. It stars Amandla Stenberg as the protagonist, Starr Carter. The title references Tupac Shakur's acronym 'THUG LIFE.'


Whose Streets? (2017)
Description: This documentary resonates with 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' as both films address contemporary issues of racial injustice and activism. 'Whose Streets?' focuses on the Ferguson uprising after the killing of Michael Brown, showcasing grassroots activism similar to the movements John Lewis was part of.
Fact: The film was directed by Sabaah Folayan and Damon Davis. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The documentary combines firsthand accounts with footage from the protests.


King in the Wilderness (2018)
Description: This documentary about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. aligns with 'John Lewis: Good Trouble' in its exploration of civil rights leadership and the challenges faced by activists. Both films highlight the personal sacrifices and moral convictions of their subjects.
Fact: The film was produced by HBO. It features interviews with close associates of Dr. King. The documentary focuses on the last years of King's life.
