10 Biopics About Overcoming a Tough Childhood

Description: Gilbert Grape's life in a small town, dealing with his mentally challenged brother and his mother's obesity, reflects the challenges of his upbringing and his path to self-discovery.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio received his first Academy Award nomination for his role as Arnie Grape. The film was based on the novel by Peter Hedges.

Description: Will Hunting's genius is overshadowed by his troubled past, including abuse and foster care, which the film explores through his relationship with his therapist.

Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. Robin Williams also won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: Władysław Szpilman's survival during the Holocaust, including his childhood experiences, is depicted, showcasing his resilience and the power of music in the face of extreme adversity.

Fact: Adrien Brody won an Academy Award for Best Actor, and the film also won for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: While not solely about childhood, John Nash's early life struggles with mental illness are depicted, showing how his genius and perseverance led to a Nobel Prize despite personal hardships.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Russell Crowe was nominated for Best Actor for his portrayal of Nash.

Description: Jean-Dominique Bauby's life after a stroke that left him with locked-in syndrome is explored, reflecting on his childhood and the journey to communicate his story.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards. The real Bauby wrote the book by blinking his left eye.

Description: Chris Gardner's story of overcoming homelessness and poverty to become a successful stockbroker is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, showing the power of determination in the face of adversity.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the film. The title misspelling is intentional, reflecting a real-life sign Chris Gardner saw.

Description: This film tells the story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who finds a new life with a caring family. It's a testament to how love and support can transform a life marked by hardship.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The real Michael Oher was a professional NFL player.

Description: Precious Jones, an overweight, illiterate teen, faces abuse, poverty, and an unexpected pregnancy. This film captures her journey towards education and self-discovery, highlighting the harsh realities of her upbringing.

Fact: The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Mo'Nique. It was adapted from the novel "Push" by Sapphire.

Description: King George VI's struggle with a stammer, rooted in his childhood, and his journey to overcome it, especially poignant given his role during WWII, is both moving and inspiring.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Colin Firth won Best Actor for his portrayal of the King.

Description: Stephen Hawking's life, marked by his battle with motor neuron disease from a young age, is portrayed, focusing on his academic achievements and personal life.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Hawking. The film was adapted from the memoir by Jane Hawking.