10 Must-Watch Social Issue Dramas

Description: This adaptation of Alice Walker's novel focuses on the life of Celie, an African-American woman living in rural Georgia, exploring themes of racism, sexism, and the strength of sisterhood.

Fact: Whoopi Goldberg made her film debut in this movie and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a tobacco industry whistleblower and a 60 Minutes producer, delving into corporate corruption, media ethics, and personal courage.

Fact: Al Pacino and Russell Crowe both received Academy Award nominations for their performances. The film was nominated for seven Oscars.

Description: This biopic delves into the life of John Nash, a mathematician who struggles with schizophrenia. It's a compelling look at mental illness, genius, and the human spirit's resilience.

Fact: Russell Crowe won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Nash. The film itself won four Oscars, including Best Picture.

Description: This film follows Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman, as he battles homelessness while trying to provide for his son and secure a better future. It's a poignant exploration of poverty, determination, and the American Dream.

Fact: Will Smith and his real-life son Jaden Smith star as father and son, adding a layer of authenticity to their relationship on screen. The film is based on the true story of Chris Gardner.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows Michael Oher, a homeless teen, who is taken in by a wealthy family and eventually becomes an NFL star, highlighting issues of race, class, and opportunity.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film was nominated for Best Picture.

Description: Set in Harlem, this film tells the story of an overweight, illiterate teen who faces abuse at home and school but finds hope through education and support. It's a raw depiction of the cycle of poverty and abuse.

Fact: Gabourey Sidibe, who played Precious, was a first-time actress and received an Academy Award nomination for her role. The film won two Oscars, including Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This film tells the story of a young man from the slums of Mumbai who becomes a contestant on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" It's a vibrant exploration of poverty, corruption, and the quest for a better life.

Fact: The film won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It was shot in Mumbai, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.

Description: Clint Eastwood stars as a Korean War vet dealing with his prejudices and the changing demographics of his neighborhood, offering a nuanced look at racism and redemption.

Fact: Eastwood directed, produced, and starred in the film. It was his first starring role since "Million Dollar Baby" in

Description: Set in the 1960s, this film explores the lives of African-American maids working for white families in Mississippi, highlighting racial tensions and the fight for civil rights.

Fact: The film was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's best-selling novel. It was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: Set in East Germany, this film examines the life of a Stasi officer who becomes emotionally involved with the lives of the people he's surveilling, offering a critique of surveillance and the human cost of political oppression.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It was the first German film to win this award since