10 Films About Immigrants That Will Move You

Description: A brother and sister flee Guatemala for the United States, facing numerous hardships along the way. This film is a raw depiction of the immigrant's journey, highlighting the perils and the dreams of those seeking refuge.

Fact: The film was preserved in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

Description: Viktor Navorski, a man from a fictional Eastern European country, finds himself stuck in JFK Airport due to a coup in his homeland. This film humorously and poignantly explores the life of an accidental immigrant.

Fact: The film was inspired by the true story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years.

Description: Based on Jhumpa Lahiri's novel, this film follows the Ganguli family, Indian immigrants in the United States, as they navigate cultural identity, family expectations, and the search for belonging.

Fact: The film was shot in both New York City and Kolkata, reflecting the dual worlds of the characters.

Description: While not strictly about immigration, this film captures the essence of the American Dream through the eyes of Chris Gardner, an African-American man struggling to provide for his son, highlighting the universal immigrant struggle for success.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the film, adding a layer of authenticity to their relationship.

Description: A young Mexican boy embarks on a perilous journey to reunite with his mother in the United States, showcasing the lengths to which families will go to be together despite borders.

Fact: The film was a box office success in Mexico and was praised for its heartfelt portrayal of the immigrant experience.

Description: A lonely professor's life changes when he finds an immigrant couple living in his New York apartment. This film explores themes of cultural displacement, friendship, and the unexpected connections that can arise from such encounters.

Fact: Richard Jenkins was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role.

Description: This film tells the story of Carlos, an undocumented Mexican gardener in Los Angeles, and his son, as they navigate the challenges of living in the shadows of society while striving for a better future.

Fact: Demián Bichir received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role as Carlos.

Description: Set in 1921, this film follows Ewa, a Polish immigrant, as she navigates the harsh realities of Ellis Island and the promises of the American Dream. It's a poignant tale of survival and the moral compromises one must make.

Fact: The film was shot in New York City, using many of the same locations where immigrants would have arrived in the early 20th century.

Description: This film captures the bittersweet journey of Eilis Lacey, an Irish immigrant in 1950s New York, as she balances her new life with the pull of her homeland. It's a heartwarming story of love, loss, and the immigrant's struggle with identity.

Fact: Saoirse Ronan was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Eilis.

Description: An Irish family moves to New York City after the death of their son, seeking a fresh start. The film explores themes of grief, hope, and the immigrant experience through the eyes of the family's two young daughters.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life experiences of writer-director Jim Sheridan.