10 Must-Watch Biopics About Street Life

Description: John Singleton's directorial debut explores the lives of three young men growing up in South Central Los Angeles, dealing with gang violence and the quest for a better life.

Fact: Singleton was the youngest person ever to be nominated for Best Director at the Academy Awards at age

Description: Eminem stars as Jimmy "B-Rabbit" Smith Jr., a white rapper trying to make it out of the Detroit trailer park scene, showcasing the harsh realities of street life and the battle rap culture.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, drawing from Eminem's own life experiences. The final rap battle was filmed in one take.

Description: Follow the journey of DJay, a Memphis pimp, who dreams of becoming a hip-hop artist. This film delves into the gritty realities of street life and the pursuit of dreams.

Fact: Terrence Howard performed all his own rapping in the film. The song "It's Hard out Here for a Pimp" won an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Description: Inspired by real events, this film follows a probation officer who forms a football team from juvenile delinquents, offering them a chance to turn their lives around.

Fact: The film was based on the real-life Camp Kilpatrick Mustangs, a football team made up of juvenile inmates. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson underwent rigorous training to portray the coach.

Description: This film captures the essence of street life through the lens of Chris Gardner's struggle to provide for his son while homeless. It's a testament to the human spirit's resilience against all odds.

Fact: Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, played his real-life son in the film. Also, the film was shot in San Francisco, where the real events took place.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a journalist who befriends a homeless, mentally ill musician, highlighting the intersection of street life and artistic talent.

Fact: Jamie Foxx learned to play the cello for his role. The film was shot on location in Los Angeles, capturing the city's diverse street scenes.

Description: This heartwarming story follows Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who finds a family and a future in football, showcasing the transformative power of compassion.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film was based on the book "The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game" by Michael Lewis.

Description: This film tells the story of Claireece "Precious" Jones, an overweight, illiterate teen who faces abuse at home and finds solace and hope through education and friendship.

Fact: Gabourey Sidibe, who played Precious, was a first-time actress. The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Mo'Nique.

Description: Robert De Niro's directorial debut, this film tells the story of a young Italian-American boy torn between his honest father and a local mob boss, reflecting the complexities of street life.

Fact: The film is based on Chazz Palminteri's one-man play, which he also wrote and starred in. De Niro was so impressed by the play that he bought the rights to make it into a movie.

Description: Set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro, this Brazilian film explores the rise of a young boy named Rocket amidst the violence and drug trade, offering a vivid portrayal of street life.

Fact: The film was shot in real favelas with many non-professional actors from those communities. It was nominated for four Academy Awards.