If you were moved by 'Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story' (2024), you'll love these 10 similar films and shows that explore heroism, resilience, and the human spirit. This article highlights compelling stories of real-life and fictional heroes who inspire us to overcome adversity, just like Christopher Reeve did. Whether you're a fan of documentaries, biopics, or uplifting dramas, this list has something for everyone.

Rain Man (1988)
Description: A story about two brothers, one of whom is autistic, learning to connect and understand each other, highlighting themes of family and acceptance.
Fact: The film popularized the term 'Rain Man' and increased public awareness of autism. Dustin Hoffman's portrayal was based on extensive research and interaction with autistic individuals.


Awakenings (1990)
Description: A poignant narrative about patients who awaken from decades-long catatonic states, exploring themes of rebirth and the fragility of life.
Fact: The film is based on Oliver Sacks' 1973 memoir of the same name. The real-life patients' awakenings were triggered by the drug L-DOPA.


A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Description: A story about a genius mathematician grappling with mental illness, illustrating the struggles and triumphs of living with a debilitating condition.
Fact: The film is based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics. It took years to secure the rights to Nash's life story for the movie.


The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Description: A deeply moving story about a man who, despite being paralyzed, finds a way to communicate and express his inner world, highlighting the power of the human mind.
Fact: The film is based on the autobiography of Jean-Dominique Bauby, who wrote the book by blinking his left eyelid. It was shot from the protagonist's perspective for much of the film.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: A tale of a father's relentless struggle to provide for his son despite homelessness and financial hardship, emphasizing hope and determination.
Fact: Will Smith's real-life son Jaden Smith plays his son in the movie. The film is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, who later became a millionaire.


The King's Speech (2010)
Description: This film depicts a man overcoming a speech impediment with the help of an unorthodox therapist, showcasing perseverance and the importance of support.
Fact: The movie won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The real Lionel Logue's notebooks were used as a primary source for the script.


The Intouchables (2011)
Description: A heartwarming tale of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and his caretaker, focusing on joy, humor, and the breaking of social barriers.
Fact: The film is inspired by the real-life relationship between Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his caretaker Abdel Sellou. It became one of the highest-grossing non-English films of all time.


The Sessions (2012)
Description: This film portrays the journey of a man with polio seeking personal fulfillment and intimacy, emphasizing themes of vulnerability and courage.
Fact: The movie is based on the true story of Mark O'Brien, a poet and journalist who lived most of his life in an iron lung. It was originally titled 'The Surrogate.'


The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: This film explores the life of a brilliant individual overcoming physical limitations, showcasing resilience and the human spirit's triumph over adversity.
Fact: The movie is based on the memoir by Jane Hawking, which details her life with Stephen Hawking. Eddie Redmayne spent months studying ALS to accurately portray Hawking's condition.


Gleason (2016)
Description: A documentary that follows a former NFL player's battle with ALS, capturing his determination to live fully and leave a legacy for his family.
Fact: Steve Gleason recorded thousands of hours of video diaries after his diagnosis, which formed the basis of the documentary. The film was crowdfunded by fans and supporters.
