From Rags to Riches: Biopics of the Underprivileged

Description: Set during WWII, this film portrays the life of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist who survives the Holocaust by hiding in the ruins of Warsaw, facing extreme poverty and isolation.

Fact: Adrien Brody lost 30 pounds for the role and learned to play Chopin's music. The film won the Palme d'Or at Cannes and three Academy Awards.

Description: Set during the Great Depression, this film recounts the life of James J. Braddock, a washed-up boxer who makes an astonishing comeback to become the heavyweight champion of the world.

Fact: Russell Crowe underwent extensive training to portray Braddock, including learning to box. The film was shot in Toronto, which was transformed to look like 1930s New York.

Description: This film tells the story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, who suffers a massive stroke and becomes paralyzed, yet manages to write a book using only his left eye. It's a tale of resilience in the face of adversity.

Fact: The film was shot in France, and the director, Julian Schnabel, won the Best Director award at Cannes. The real Bauby's book was published posthumously.

Description: This film tells the real-life story of Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who becomes a stockbroker. It's a testament to the power of perseverance and hope against all odds.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the movie, mirroring their real-life relationship. The film was shot in San Francisco, where the real events took place.

Description: This film explores the life of Nathaniel Ayers, a homeless, mentally ill musician who was once a promising student at Juilliard. It's a story of friendship, music, and the human spirit.

Fact: Jamie Foxx learned to play the cello for his role, and the film's score was composed by A. R. Rahman, who also scored "Slumdog Millionaire."

Description: This film is based on the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who becomes an All-American football player and first-round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring family.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The real Michael Oher made a cameo in the film.

Description: Set in the slums of Mumbai, this film follows Jamal Malik, an 18-year-old orphan who becomes a contestant on the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" It's a story of love, luck, and the indomitable spirit of the underprivileged.

Fact: The film won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The child actors were all from the slums of Mumbai, giving the film an authentic feel.

Description: This film focuses on King George VI's struggle with a stammer, but it also touches on the financial and emotional hardships faced by the royal family during the economic depression.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The real Lionel Logue's diaries were used to ensure historical accuracy.

Description: While not strictly about poverty, this film delves into the life of Stephen Hawking, who faced immense personal and physical challenges, including financial struggles in his early career.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Hawking. The film was shot in Cambridge, where Hawking studied and worked.

Description: This film follows Phiona Mutesi, a Ugandan girl living in a slum who becomes a chess prodigy. It's an uplifting story of how chess can change lives in the face of poverty.

Fact: The film was shot in Uganda, providing an authentic backdrop to Phiona's story. Lupita Nyong'o learned to play chess for her role as Phiona's mother.