This curated list of films delves into the lives of street children, showcasing their struggles, resilience, and the occasional glimmer of hope. These stories not only entertain but also educate us about the challenges faced by those living on the fringes of society. Each film provides a unique perspective, making this collection a must-watch for anyone interested in social issues, human spirit, and the transformative power of cinema.
Oliver! (1968)
Description: This musical adaptation of Dickens' "Oliver Twist" captures the life of an orphan in Victorian London, highlighting the plight of street urchins.
Fact: It won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and features the iconic song "Consider Yourself."
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Pixote (1981)
Description: A Brazilian film that follows a young boy's descent into crime after being abandoned by his mother, offering a raw depiction of street life.
Fact: The film was banned in Brazil for its portrayal of child exploitation.
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The Lost Boys (1987)
Description: While more of a horror-comedy, it touches on themes of youth culture and the dangers faced by young runaways.
Fact: The film's title is a nod to J.M. Barrie's "Peter Pan."
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Salaam Bombay! (1988)
Description: A poignant look at the life of a young boy in Bombay's slums, this film sheds light on the harsh realities of street children in India.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
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The City of Lost Children (1995)
Description: This surreal, dystopian film explores the plight of children kidnapped by a mad scientist, reflecting the vulnerability of street kids in a fantastical setting.
Fact: The film was co-directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro, known for their unique visual style.
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The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: Though not about street kids per se, it portrays the struggle of a homeless father and son, reflecting the broader theme of survival on the streets.
Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith star as father and son, making it a family affair.
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Streetwise (1984)
Description: A documentary that captures the lives of homeless and runaway teenagers in Seattle, providing an unfiltered look at their daily struggles.
Fact: It inspired the character of Baby in "Singles" by Cameron Crowe.
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Kids (1995)
Description: A controversial film that follows a day in the life of New York City teenagers, some of whom are homeless or runaways.
Fact: It was Harmony Korine's debut screenplay, and he was only 19 when he wrote it.
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The War Zone (1999)
Description: While not exclusively about street kids, it explores family dysfunction and the impact on children, which can lead to street life.
Fact: The film features Ray Winstone and Colin Farrell in early roles.
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The Children of Leningradsky (2005)
Description: This documentary focuses on the lives of homeless children living in Moscow's Leningradsky railway station, offering a stark insight into their world.
Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject.
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