Best Films About Children Facing Challenges

Description: This classic tale follows Mary Lennox, an orphaned girl sent to live with her uncle in England, where she discovers a secret garden that helps her and her cousin Colin to heal from their emotional and physical ailments.

Fact: The film was shot at the real Misselthwaite Manor, which was actually Highclere Castle, also known as the setting for Downton Abbey.

Description: Set in the 1970s, this film explores the lives of two brothers whose father returns from Vietnam, dealing with PTSD, while they face their own battles at home and school.

Fact: Kevin Costner, who also directed the film, stars as the father, delivering a powerful performance.

Description: While not exclusively about a child, the film focuses on Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman, and his son, highlighting their struggle and perseverance in the face of extreme adversity.

Fact: The film is inspired by the real-life story of Chris Gardner, and Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, played his on-screen son.

Description: Set during World War II, this film follows Bruno, the son of a Nazi officer, who befriends Shmuel, a Jewish boy in a concentration camp. Their friendship, despite the horrific backdrop, showcases innocence and the devastating effects of war on children.

Fact: The film was adapted from John Boyne's novel, and its ending is known for its emotional impact.

Description: Hushpuppy, a young girl living in a bayou community, faces the challenges of her father's illness and the impending environmental disaster. Her story is one of survival, imagination, and the strength of community.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This film tells the story of Jack, a five-year-old boy, and his mother, who have been held captive in a small room for seven years. It's a poignant exploration of the bond between mother and child, and Jack's journey to understand the world outside their confinement.

Fact: Brie Larson won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Joy, Jack's mother. The film was adapted from Emma Donoghue's novel of the same name.

Description: Six-year-old Moonee lives in a budget motel with her struggling single mother. The film captures the vibrant, yet precarious, world of childhood against the backdrop of poverty and the harsh realities of adult life.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Florida, using real-life residents as extras to maintain authenticity.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Saroo, who gets lost on a train in India at age five and is adopted by an Australian couple. Years later, he uses Google Earth to find his way back to his birth family.

Fact: Dev Patel was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the adult Saroo.

Description: This Iranian film tells the story of Mohammad, a blind boy, and his struggles with his father's rejection and the harsh realities of life in rural Iran.

Fact: The film was shot in the beautiful landscapes of Iran, providing a stark contrast to the emotional narrative.

Description: An Iranian film about a brother and sister who share one pair of shoes due to their family's poverty, leading to a series of events that test their ingenuity and bond.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, showcasing the universal appeal of its story.