10 Must-Watch Dramas About Unyielding Spirits

Description: Sir Thomas More's stubborn adherence to his principles leads to his downfall when he refuses to acknowledge King Henry VIII as the head of the Church of England. His unwavering faith and moral conviction are at the heart of this drama.

Fact: The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Paul Scofield, who played More, won Best Actor.

Description: The story of a butler, Stevens, whose stubborn dedication to his duties blinds him to the political machinations around him and the personal life he sacrifices. His refusal to change or adapt is both his strength and his tragedy.

Fact: The film was adapted from Kazuo Ishiguro's novel. Anthony Hopkins was nominated for an Academy Award for his role as Stevens.

Description: Alvin Straight's stubborn journey across Iowa on a lawnmower to reconcile with his estranged brother is a poignant tale of determination and the human spirit.

Fact: The film was directed by David Lynch, known for his surreal work, making this a unique entry in his filmography. Richard Farnsworth was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Description: Władysław Szpilman's stubborn will to survive the Holocaust through his music and his refusal to give up hope, even in the darkest times, is a testament to human resilience.

Fact: Adrien Brody won an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film was shot in Warsaw, where the events took place.

Description: Jean-Dominique Bauby's story of living with locked-in syndrome, where he can only communicate through blinking one eye, showcases an incredible stubbornness to live and tell his story.

Fact: The film was shot in France, where Bauby lived. Mathieu Amalric, who played Bauby, learned to communicate using the same method.

Description: Queen Elizabeth II's stubborn adherence to tradition and protocol during the aftermath of Princess Diana's death creates tension with the public and her own government. Her eventual adaptation is a subtle but powerful narrative.

Fact: Helen Mirren won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as the Queen. The film was shot at locations including Balmoral Castle.

Description: Chris Gardner's relentless pursuit of a better life for himself and his son, despite overwhelming odds, is a story of stubborn determination and hope against all odds.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the film. The film was based on Gardner's real-life experiences.

Description: This film delves into the life of Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first female Prime Minister, known for her unwavering resolve and controversial policies. Her stubbornness shaped not only her political career but also the country's future.

Fact: Meryl Streep won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Thatcher. The film was shot in various locations, including Thatcher's childhood home.

Description: King George VI, known for his stammer, must overcome his personal struggle to lead his nation through WWII. His stubbornness in refusing to give up on his speech therapy sessions is both touching and inspiring.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The real-life speech therapist, Lionel Logue, was portrayed by Geoffrey Rush.

Description: Stephen Hawking's life is a testament to stubbornness in the face of adversity. Despite his debilitating illness, he continues his groundbreaking work in physics, refusing to let his condition define him.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Hawking. The film was shot in Cambridge, where Hawking worked.