This curated selection of films delves into the lives of street children, showcasing their struggles, resilience, and the occasional glimmers of hope. These stories not only highlight the harsh realities faced by these young individuals but also celebrate their spirit and the human capacity for compassion. Each film in this collection provides a window into different cultures and eras, offering a profound cinematic experience that resonates with viewers of all backgrounds.

Oliver! (1968)
Description: This musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist" captures the plight of a young orphan in Victorian London, highlighting themes of poverty and exploitation.
Fact: The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was the first British film to win in this category.


Pixote (1981)
Description: A Brazilian film that portrays the brutal reality of street children in São Paulo, focusing on the life of a young boy named Pixote.
Fact: The film was controversial for its raw depiction of violence and exploitation, leading to its ban in several countries.


Salaam Bombay! (1988)
Description: This Indian film follows the life of a young boy who ends up living on the streets of Mumbai, providing an authentic look at street life in India.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.


The City of Lost Children (1995)
Description: A surreal, dystopian film where a mad scientist kidnaps children to steal their dreams, offering a dark, fantastical take on the life of street kids.
Fact: The film was co-directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro, known for their visually stunning and imaginative storytelling.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: While not exclusively about street kids, it features a father and son living in shelters and on the streets, showcasing their resilience and hope.
Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith starred in this film, which was based on a true story.


Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
Description: This film follows a young man from the slums of Mumbai who becomes a contestant on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?", reflecting his street-smart upbringing.
Fact: The film won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


Streetwise (1984)
Description: A documentary that captures the lives of homeless and runaway teenagers in Seattle, offering an unfiltered look at their daily struggles.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


The War Zone (1999)
Description: This British film deals with family dysfunction and includes scenes where the children are left to fend for themselves, reflecting themes of neglect.
Fact: The film was directed by Tim Roth in his directorial debut.


The Runaways (2010)
Description: While not strictly about street kids, this film explores the lives of teenage girls who run away from home, often ending up in precarious situations.
Fact: The film stars Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart, who portray real-life rock musicians.


The Children of Leningradsky (2005)
Description: This documentary focuses on the lives of homeless children living near Moscow's Leningradsky railway station, showing their fight for survival.
Fact: The film was shot over several years to capture the real-life stories of these children.
