10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Green Book (2018)

Description: This film shares with 'Green Book' the central theme of an evolving interracial friendship in the American South during a time of racial tension. Both stories explore class differences and personal growth through the relationship between a white employer and their African American employee. The gentle humor mixed with serious social commentary creates a similar tone.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture in

Description: Like 'Green Book', this film explores racial integration through the lens of personal relationships, set against the backdrop of American segregation. Both stories show how shared goals and mutual respect can overcome prejudice. The sports setting provides a similar framework for examining racial tensions and eventual unity.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of the 1971 T.C. Williams High School football team. Denzel Washington turned down the role three times before accepting. Many of the football scenes were filmed using actual high school players as extras.

Description: Similar to 'Green Book', '42' tells a true story of breaking racial barriers, in this case Jackie Robinson integrating Major League Baseball. Both films showcase the courage required to challenge segregation and the personal costs of being a trailblazer. The inspirational sports drama shares the same uplifting yet serious tone.

Fact: The number 42 was retired across all MLB teams in 1997 in honor of Jackie Robinson. Harrison Ford took a significant pay cut to play Branch Rickey. Chadwick Boseman's portrayal of Jackie Robinson was his breakthrough role before becoming famous as Black Panther.

Description: While not about race relations, this film shares with 'Green Book' the theme of overcoming societal barriers through perseverance. Both are based on true stories of men facing significant challenges while maintaining their dignity. The emotional journey and father-son relationship create a similar heartfelt tone.

Fact: Will Smith's real-life son Jaden plays his on-screen son. The misspelling of 'happiness' in the title comes from the actual daycare center in the true story. Chris Gardner, the real-life inspiration, makes a cameo at the end of the film.

Description: Similar to 'Green Book', this film portrays an unlikely friendship that crosses racial and class lines. Both stories are based on true events and show how compassion can change lives. The uplifting sports drama shares the same blend of serious themes with heartwarming moments.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won her first Academy Award for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The real Michael Oher served as a consultant on the film. It's one of only three sports movies to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars.

Description: Like 'Green Book', 'The Butler' examines racial inequality in America through the lens of one man's personal journey. Both films span several decades of American history and show the protagonist navigating racial barriers while serving white employers. The historical backdrop and focus on dignity in service are strong parallels.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the real life of Eugene Allen, who served as a White House butler for 34 years. Oprah Winfrey returned to acting after a 15-year hiatus for this film. The movie features an extraordinary cast with over 20 famous actors playing historical figures.

Description: Similar to 'Green Book', 'The Help' explores themes of racial discrimination and unlikely friendships in the American South. Both films highlight the struggles of African Americans during different periods of history, with a focus on personal relationships that transcend societal norms. The emotional tone is also similar, blending drama with moments of warmth and humor.

Fact: The film is based on Kathryn Stockett's 2009 novel of the same name. Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer both received Academy Award nominations for their roles, with Spencer winning Best Supporting Actress. The movie was shot in Mississippi, where the story is set.

Description: Like 'Green Book', 'Loving' tells a true story about challenging racial discrimination in America, focusing on the landmark Supreme Court case that legalized interracial marriage. Both films handle their serious subject matter with quiet dignity and focus on the human relationships at their core.

Fact: The film is based on the documentary 'The Loving Story'. Ruth Negga received an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Mildred Loving. The real-life Lovings' daughter Peggy makes a cameo in the film.

Description: Like 'Green Book', 'Hidden Figures' tells a true story of African Americans overcoming racial barriers, this time in the context of the space race. Both films celebrate unsung heroes and showcase the power of perseverance and talent in the face of systemic racism. The uplifting tone and historical significance are key similarities.

Fact: The film focuses on three real-life NASA mathematicians: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson. Taraji P. Henson, who plays Katherine Johnson, actually studied engineering in college before becoming an actress. The movie was released the same year Katherine Johnson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Description: Similar to 'Green Book', 'Marshall' explores racial injustice through the lens of a true historical figure - in this case, Thurgood Marshall early in his career. Both films showcase African American professionals navigating a prejudiced system while fighting for justice. The courtroom drama shares the same blend of historical significance and personal story.

Fact: Chadwick Boseman plays Thurgood Marshall, having previously portrayed Jackie Robinson in '42'. The film focuses on one of Marshall's early cases before he became the first African American Supreme Court Justice. Sterling K. Brown, who plays the defendant, is actually a distant cousin of Thurgood Marshall.