10 Dramatic Films About Overcoming Adversity

Description: A janitor at MIT with a genius-level IQ must confront his past and personal demons with the help of a therapist, showcasing the journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance.

Fact: The screenplay was written by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, who won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Robin Williams won Best Supporting Actor for his role as the therapist.

Description: A single mother with no legal training takes on a powerful corporation, leading to one of the largest class action lawsuits in U.S. history, proving that determination can overcome any obstacle.

Fact: Julia Roberts won an Oscar for her role as Erin Brockovich. The real Erin Brockovich made a cameo in the film.

Description: This film chronicles the life of John Nash, a mathematical genius who battles schizophrenia, showing how he overcomes his mental illness to achieve greatness.

Fact: The film took liberties with Nash's life story for dramatic effect, including the portrayal of his hallucinations. Russell Crowe learned to write mathematical equations for his role.

Description: After suffering a massive stroke, Jean-Dominique Bauby, editor of French Elle, must adapt to life with locked-in syndrome, dictating his memoir through blinking his left eye.

Fact: The film was shot from Bauby's perspective, with the camera representing his limited field of vision. The real Bauby died just days after his book was published.

Description: This film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman, as he battles homelessness while trying to provide for his son and secure a better future. It's a powerful tale of perseverance and hope.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the film, mirroring their real-life relationship. The film's title is intentionally misspelled, reflecting the way Chris's son spelled it.

Description: The true story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who becomes an All-American football player, thanks to the love and support of a caring family.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Oscar for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The real Michael Oher was involved in the film's production as a consultant.

Description: King George VI must overcome his debilitating stammer to give a speech that will inspire his nation during World War II, showcasing the personal struggle behind public duty.

Fact: The film was originally rated R due to some language, but was re-rated PG-13 after appeals. The real Lionel Logue's grandson was involved in the film as a consultant.

Description: A wealthy aristocrat, paralyzed from the neck down, hires a young man from the projects to be his caregiver, leading to an unlikely friendship that changes both their lives.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life friendship between Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and Abdel Sellou. It became the second highest-grossing non-English language film in the U.S.

Description: Stephen Hawking's life story, focusing on his relationship with his wife and his battle with motor neuron disease, highlighting his incredible intellectual achievements despite physical limitations.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Oscar for his portrayal of Hawking. The film was based on Jane Hawking's memoir, offering a personal perspective on their life together.

Description: A tale of an underdog female boxer who, with the help of a reluctant trainer, rises to the top, only to face a life-altering tragedy that tests her resilience.

Fact: Clint Eastwood directed, produced, and starred in the film, winning Best Director at the Oscars. The film's ending was controversial, leading to mixed reactions.