Films About Hard Life: A Collection of Cinematic Stories

Description: This adaptation of Alice Walker's novel tells the story of Celie, an African American woman living in rural Georgia, who faces numerous hardships but finds strength through sisterhood and self-discovery.

Fact: Oprah Winfrey made her film debut in this movie, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Description: Based on the true story of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist who survived the Holocaust by living in hiding in Warsaw. It's a harrowing tale of survival amidst the horrors of war.

Fact: Adrien Brody lost 30 pounds to play the role of Szpilman, and he learned to play the piano for the film. He also won an Oscar for Best Actor.

Description: In a small New Zealand coastal village, a young girl challenges the traditions of her Maori tribe, proving that she is the true leader they need.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual village where the story is set, and many of the actors were local residents.

Description: This film follows the real-life story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son. It's a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of a better life against all odds.

Fact: Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, plays his son in the movie. The film's title misspells "Happiness" to reflect the misspelling on the mural in the movie.

Description: A father and son journey through a post-apocalyptic world, facing starvation, cannibals, and the harsh elements, all while trying to hold onto their humanity.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations to depict the desolate landscape, including Pittsburgh, Oregon, and Louisiana.

Description: This film portrays the life of Claireece "Precious" Jones, an overweight, illiterate teen who is pregnant with her second child by her own father. It's a story of overcoming unimaginable adversity.

Fact: The film was adapted from the novel "Push" by Sapphire. Gabourey Sidibe, who played Precious, was discovered in a casting call and had no prior acting experience.

Description: An aging professional wrestler tries to reconnect with his estranged daughter and find meaning in his life outside the ring, where he has spent most of it.

Fact: Mickey Rourke, who plays the wrestler, was a former boxer and had to get back into shape for the role. The film was inspired by the life of Randy "The Ram" Robinson, a real wrestler.

Description: Set in the Ozark Mountains, this film follows a teenage girl who must track down her drug-dealing father to save her family's home from being seized by the authorities.

Fact: Jennifer Lawrence was only 19 when she starred in this film, which was her breakout role. The film was shot on location in Missouri, providing an authentic feel.

Description: A mother and her young son live in captivity in a small room, but their escape leads to a new set of challenges as they adjust to the outside world.

Fact: The film was shot in a real, purpose-built room to capture the claustrophobic feel. Brie Larson won an Oscar for her role as the mother.

Description: Set in the slums of Mumbai, this film tells the story of a young man from the slums who becomes a contestant on India's "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" and how his life experiences help him answer the questions.

Fact: The film was shot in real slums, providing an authentic backdrop to the story. It won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture.