10 Movies & Shows Like Midsummer in Newtown

Description: A touching story about siblings navigating life's hardships with innocence and determination, highlighting the power of familial bonds and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Fact: It was the first Iranian film to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The entire film was shot in just 45 days.

Description: This documentary follows eight young competitors in the National Spelling Bee, highlighting their dedication, the pressures they face, and the support of their communities.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. One of the spellers featured in the film later became a neuroscientist.

Description: A documentary that captures the joy and challenges of New York City public school students as they learn ballroom dancing, showcasing the impact of arts education on young lives.

Fact: The film was shot over eight weeks in 2004 and features real students and teachers, not actors. It inspired a wave of ballroom dancing programs in schools across the U.S.

Description: This film tells the inspiring true story of an 84-year-old Kenyan man who enrolls in primary school, emphasizing themes of lifelong learning and the transformative power of education.

Fact: The real-life Maruge, on whom the film is based, was listed in the Guinness World Records as the oldest person to start primary school. The film was shot on location in Kenya.

Description: This film explores the dynamics of a multicultural classroom, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of both students and teachers, much like the themes of resilience and community in urban education settings.

Fact: The film is based on a semi-autobiographical novel by François Bégaudeau, who also stars in the movie as the teacher. It won the Palme d'Or at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This documentary examines the controversial issue of exotic pets in America, shedding light on the emotional and ethical complexities surrounding the topic.

Fact: The film won the Best Documentary Award at the San Diego Film Festival. It features real-life footage of dangerous encounters between exotic animals and their owners.

Description: This documentary follows four families competing for spots in a high-performing charter school, highlighting the inequalities in the American education system.

Fact: The film was shot in Harlem and explores the debate over charter schools versus traditional public schools. It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.

Description: A powerful documentary that addresses the pervasive issue of bullying in schools, capturing the emotional toll on victims and the urgent need for systemic change.

Fact: The film's release led to a nationwide campaign against bullying. It was initially rated R, but the rating was later changed to PG-13 after public outcry.

Description: A documentary that exposes the prevalence of sexual assault on college campuses and the institutional failures to address it, resonating with themes of justice and advocacy.

Fact: The film features Lady Gaga's song 'Til It Happens to You,' which was nominated for an Academy Award. It sparked nationwide discussions about campus sexual assault policies.

Description: A documentary that delves into the lives of at-risk high school students in a rural community, focusing on their struggles and the educators who strive to help them succeed.

Fact: The film won the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Vérité Filmmaking at the Sundance Film Festival. It was shot over the course of one school year.