Top 10 Films About Life in the Slums

Description: This film tells the story of Krishna, a young boy who ends up in the slums of Bombay after being abandoned by his mother. It provides a poignant look at the life of street children in one of India's largest cities.

Fact: The film was Mira Nair's directorial debut and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Description: While not entirely about slums, this film includes scenes where Che Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado encounter poverty in various Latin American countries, providing insight into the conditions of the urban poor.

Fact: The film was shot on location in several countries, capturing the real essence of the places visited by Che.

Description: Set partly in the slums of Nairobi, this film delves into pharmaceutical corruption and the exploitation of the poor, highlighting the dire living conditions and the fight for justice.

Fact: The film was adapted from John le Carré's novel and features a compelling performance by Rachel Weisz, who won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Description: While not exclusively set in slums, this film captures the struggle of Chris Gardner, who lives in poverty with his son, highlighting the desperation and resilience found in urban slums.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played the roles of father and son, adding a real-life dynamic to their performances.

Description: This film follows the life of Jamal Malik, an 18-year-old from the slums of Mumbai, who becomes a contestant on the Indian version of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" The narrative weaves through his past, showcasing the gritty reality of slum life, and how his experiences help him answer the quiz show questions.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Mumbai's slums, providing an authentic backdrop. It won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: Three boys living in the slums of Rio de Janeiro find a wallet and are drawn into a dangerous adventure involving corruption and police brutality, showcasing the stark contrast between the rich and the poor.

Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Andy Mulligan and features a mix of professional and non-professional actors.

Description: Set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, this film explores the lives of two boys growing up in the notorious Cidade de Deus. One becomes a photographer, the other a drug dealer, illustrating the stark choices faced by those living in poverty.

Fact: The film uses real slum residents as actors, adding to its raw authenticity. It was nominated for four Academy Awards.

Description: Set in the shantytowns of South Africa, this film follows a young gang leader who steals a car only to find a baby in the backseat. It explores themes of redemption and the harsh life in the townships.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, highlighting the global appeal of its story.

Description: This film follows Balram Halwai, a driver from a rural village who navigates his way through the slums of Delhi to become an entrepreneur, offering a satirical look at India's class divide.

Fact: The film was adapted from Aravind Adiga's Booker Prize-winning novel and stars Adarsh Gourav, who received critical acclaim for his role.

Description: This documentary captures the lives of children born to prostitutes in Calcutta's red-light district, focusing on their photography project that offers them a glimpse of hope and escape from their surroundings.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, highlighting the power of art in transforming lives.