10 Movies and Shows Similar to America to Me (2018)

Description: Like 'America to Me', 'The Wire' provides a deep, nuanced exploration of systemic issues affecting marginalized communities, particularly focusing on education, law enforcement, and socio-economic disparities. Both use a documentary-style approach to storytelling, blending fictional narratives with real-world social commentary.

Fact: 'The Wire' was created by former police reporter David Simon, lending it an authentic feel. Many actors were non-professionals recruited from Baltimore streets. The show's detailed portrayal of institutional dysfunction has made it required viewing in some university sociology courses.

Description: This series shares with 'America to Me' an intimate look at American community life through the lens of its education system, particularly how sports intersect with race, class, and local identity. Both show the pressures on young people navigating complex social environments.

Fact: The iconic 'handheld camera' style was achieved by using actual documentary techniques. Many storylines were inspired by real events in Texas high school football. The show's realistic portrayal of marriage made it unusual for a teen-focused drama.

Description: Like 'America to Me', this film presents a deeply personal look at racial realities in America through one tragic incident. Both works humanize their subjects while illuminating broader systemic issues.

Fact: Based on the 2009 shooting of Oscar Grant. Ryan Coogler's feature directorial debut. Won both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at Sundance.

Description: This documentary shares with 'America to Me' an unflinching look at racial injustice in America, particularly how systems fail young people of color. Both examine how media narratives shape public perception of race and crime.

Fact: Directed by Ken Burns and his daughter Sarah Burns. The case led to Donald Trump taking out full-page ads calling for executions. The five men were exonerated after serving 6-13 years in prison.

Description: Like 'America to Me', this series offers a surreal yet authentic look at Black experience in America, blending humor with sharp social commentary. Both use unconventional storytelling to explore race, class, and identity.

Fact: Donald Glover created, writes, directs, and stars in the series. The 'B.A.N.' episode is presented as a fictional TV network. Won Emmys for both comedy acting and directing.

Description: Shares with 'America to Me' an intimate, poetic exploration of Black identity and coming-of-age in challenging environments. Both use unconventional narrative structures to capture complex personal journeys.

Fact: First LGBTQ film and first all-Black cast to win Best Picture. Based on Tarell Alvin McCraney's unpublished play. The three actors playing Chiron never met during filming.

Description: Like 'America to Me', this film explores the challenges of navigating different racial environments, particularly for young Black students in predominantly white institutions. Both address police violence and activism through personal, character-driven narratives.

Fact: Based on Angie Thomas's bestselling YA novel. The title references Tupac's THUG LIFE acronym. Amandla Stenberg turned down 'Black Panther' to star in this film.

Description: Similar to 'America to Me', this series examines racial dynamics in educational institutions through multiple perspectives. Both use an anthology format to explore contemporary race relations with both humor and gravity, blending personal stories with larger social commentary.

Fact: Began as a 2014 indie film before becoming a series. Creator Justin Simien based it on his experiences at Chapman University. Each episode focuses on a different character's perspective.

Description: This series shares with 'America to Me' a multi-perspective look at life in a Black community, particularly how young people navigate violence, relationships, and systemic challenges. Both blend social commentary with intimate character studies.

Fact: Created by Lena Waithe, drawing from her Chicago upbringing. Originally conceived as an anthology series. Features many Chicago natives in the cast and crew.

Description: Like 'America to Me', this film examines systemic racism through a personal love story, showing how institutions affect individual lives. Both use lush visual storytelling to contrast beauty with harsh realities.

Fact: Based on James Baldwin's 1974 novel. Regina King won an Oscar for her supporting role. Barry Jenkins wrote the screenplay before 'Moonlight' but made that film first.