10 Heartfelt Films About Families in Poverty

Description: Based on John Steinbeck's novel, this classic film depicts the Joad family's journey from the Dust Bowl to California in search of a better life, highlighting the plight of the poor during the Great Depression.

Fact: John Ford won the Best Director Oscar for this film. The film was one of the first to be added to the National Film Registry for preservation.

Description: Based on Alice Walker's novel, this film explores the life of Celie, an African American woman living in rural Georgia, dealing with poverty, racism, and sexism. It's a story of survival and empowerment.

Fact: Whoopi Goldberg made her film debut in this movie. Steven Spielberg directed the film, marking a departure from his usual genre.

Description: Set in Sheffield, this comedy-drama follows a group of unemployed steelworkers who turn to male stripping to make ends meet. It's a humorous yet poignant look at unemployment and family dynamics.

Fact: The film's title is a British slang term for "the whole thing." The film was a surprise hit, becoming one of the highest-grossing British films at the time.

Description: Set during the 1984 miners' strike in England, this film tells the story of Billy, a young boy from a poor mining family, who discovers his passion for ballet. It's a tale of breaking free from societal expectations and finding one's true calling.

Fact: The film was adapted into a successful West End musical. Jamie Bell, who played Billy, had no prior acting experience before this role.

Description: This film follows Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman, as he struggles to provide for his son while pursuing a better life through an unpaid internship. It's a testament to the power of perseverance and the bond between father and son.

Fact: Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, plays his son in the film. The film's title misspelling is intentional, reflecting the misspelling on the mural in the real Chris Gardner's office.

Description: Precious Jones, an overweight, illiterate teen, lives in Harlem with her abusive mother. The film explores her journey to education and self-discovery amidst extreme poverty and hardship.

Fact: The film was adapted from the novel "Push" by Sapphire. Gabourey Sidibe, who played Precious, was discovered through an open casting call.

Description: Set in the Ozarks, this film follows Ree Dolly, a teenage girl trying to keep her family together after her father goes missing. It's a gritty, realistic portrayal of rural poverty and family loyalty.

Fact: Jennifer Lawrence received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role as Ree Dolly. The film was shot in Missouri, where the story is set.

Description: This film tells the story of a mother and son who have been held captive in a small room for years. It's a powerful narrative about the bond between a mother and child in the face of extreme adversity.

Fact: Brie Larson won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film was shot in a single location to reflect the confined space of the room.

Description: This film captures the lives of families living in budget motels near Disney World, focusing on a spirited six-year-old girl and her young single mother. It's a poignant look at poverty in the shadow of affluence.

Fact: The film was shot on location in real budget motels. The director, Sean Baker, used non-professional actors for many roles to add authenticity.

Description: This adaptation of Frank McCourt's memoir recounts his childhood in poverty-stricken Ireland. It's a tale of resilience, humor, and the harsh realities of growing up in a poor family.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Ireland. The book on which the film is based won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography.