10 Must-Watch Dramas About Social Movements

Description: Based on John Steinbeck's novel, this film follows the Joad family as they migrate from the Dust Bowl to California in search of work, highlighting the plight of the working poor and the labor movement of the time.

Fact: The film was directed by John Ford and won two Academy Awards, including Best Director.

Description: Julia Roberts stars as Erin Brockovich, a single mother who becomes a legal assistant and almost single-handedly brings down a California power company accused of polluting a city's water supply. It's a story of environmental justice and personal triumph.

Fact: Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role.

Description: This film chronicles the historic 1965 voting rights marches from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It's a poignant portrayal of the civil rights movement, highlighting the struggle for voting rights and the sacrifices made for equality.

Fact: Oprah Winfrey was one of the producers of the film, and it was nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

Description: This film spans several decades, focusing on the life of Cecil Gaines, a butler who served in the White House during pivotal moments of the civil rights movement, offering a unique perspective on the era's social changes.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the life of Eugene Allen, who served as a White House butler for 34 years.

Description: Set in the 1960s, "The Help" explores the lives of African-American maids working in white households in Mississippi, highlighting the racial inequalities and the quiet revolution of change.

Fact: The film was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's best-selling novel of the same name.

Description: This biographical film focuses on the life of Cesar Chavez, the Mexican-American labor leader and civil rights activist who co-founded the United Farm Workers. It's a testament to his fight for better working conditions and rights for farm laborers.

Fact: Michael Peña, who plays Chavez, learned Spanish for the role despite being fluent in English.

Description: Set in early 20th-century London, this film follows the lives of women fighting for the right to vote. It's a gripping narrative that showcases the determination and sacrifices of the suffragette movement.

Fact: Meryl Streep plays Emmeline Pankhurst, the leader of the British suffragette movement, in a cameo role.

Description: This heartwarming film tells the true story of the unlikely alliance between a group of gay and lesbian activists and striking miners in 1984 Wales, showcasing solidarity across different social movements.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life group Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners.

Description: Sally Field stars as Norma Rae, a Southern textile worker who becomes involved in the labor union movement, leading to significant changes in workers' rights. It's a powerful story of individual courage against corporate exploitation.

Fact: Sally Field won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role.

Description: "Milk" tells the story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, and his fight for gay rights. It's an inspiring tale of activism, courage, and the impact one person can have on society.

Fact: Sean Penn won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Harvey Milk.