Green Book is a heartwarming drama that explores the unlikely friendship between a bouncer and a classical pianist during a road trip through the American South in the 1960s. If you’re a fan of this genre, you’ll love these 19 movies that capture similar themes of friendship, social issues, and personal growth. Check out the trailers for these movies to get a taste of each story.
1. The Help
The Help is a powerful drama set in the 1960s that follows an aspiring author who decides to write a book from the perspective of African American maids. Starring Viola Davis, Emma Stone, and Octavia Spencer, the film delves into themes of racism and social justice.
2. Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures tells the true story of three African American women mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the Space Race. Featuring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, this inspiring film highlights their groundbreaking contributions and struggles against discrimination.
3. The Pursuit of Happyness
The Pursuit of Happyness is a biographical drama starring Will Smith as Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son. The film showcases his relentless determination to create a better life, emphasizing themes of perseverance and hope.
4. Driving Miss Daisy
Driving Miss Daisy is a classic film about the evolving relationship between an elderly Jewish woman and her African American chauffeur in the American South. Starring Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman, this touching story explores themes of friendship and racial tension.
5. A Beautiful Mind
A Beautiful Mind is a biographical drama about John Nash, a brilliant but troubled mathematician who struggles with schizophrenia. Russell Crowe delivers a compelling performance, supported by Jennifer Connelly, in this film that delves into mental health and personal triumph.
6. 12 Years a Slave
12 Years a Slave is a harrowing historical drama based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free African American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. The film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Lupita Nyong’o, and Michael Fassbender, and it powerfully portrays the brutality of slavery.
7. Invictus
Invictus is a biographical sports drama that tells the story of how Nelson Mandela used the 1995 Rugby World Cup to unite South Africa. Starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon, the film highlights themes of reconciliation and national unity.
8. The Blind Side
The Blind Side is a heartwarming drama based on the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager who becomes a football star with the help of a caring family. Sandra Bullock and Quinton Aaron star in this inspiring film about kindness and opportunity.
9. Remember the Titans
Remember the Titans is a sports drama that follows the integration of a high school football team in Virginia during the 1970s. Featuring Denzel Washington and Will Patton, the film explores themes of teamwork, racism, and unity.
10. The Intouchables
The Intouchables is a French comedy-drama about the unlikely friendship between a wealthy quadriplegic and his caregiver from the projects. Omar Sy and François Cluzet star in this uplifting film that balances humor and heartfelt moments.
11. The Theory of Everything
The Theory of Everything is a biographical drama about the life of physicist Stephen Hawking and his relationship with his first wife, Jane. Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones deliver standout performances in this film that explores love, science, and resilience.
12. Ray
Ray is a biographical film about the life of Ray Charles, the legendary musician who overcame blindness and personal struggles to achieve fame. Jamie Foxx stars in this captivating portrayal of the ups and downs of Charles’s life and career.
13. Selma
Selma is a historical drama that chronicles the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Starring David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo, and Tom Wilkinson, the film powerfully depicts the fight for civil rights.
14. The Butler
The Butler is a historical drama inspired by the true story of an African American butler who served in the White House for over three decades. Forest Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey star in this film that spans multiple presidencies and social changes.
15. Cinderella Man
Cinderella Man is a biographical sports drama about James J. Braddock, a boxer who makes a comeback during the Great Depression. Russell Crowe and Renée Zellweger star in this inspiring film about determination and family.
16. The Soloist
The Soloist is a drama based on the true story of a journalist who befriends a homeless, schizophrenic musician. Starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx, the film explores themes of friendship, mental illness, and the power of music.
17. The Green Mile
The Green Mile is a fantasy drama about a death row corrections officer who discovers that one of his inmates has supernatural abilities. Tom Hanks and Michael Clarke Duncan star in this emotionally charged film that delves into themes of justice and humanity.
18. Catch Me If You Can
Catch Me If You Can is a biographical crime drama about Frank Abagnale Jr., a young con artist who successfully impersonates various professionals. Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks star in this entertaining film that captures the cat-and-mouse chase between Abagnale and the FBI.
19. The King’s Speech
The King’s Speech is a historical drama about King George VI’s efforts to overcome his stammer with the help of an unorthodox speech therapist. Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush deliver stellar performances in this inspiring film about courage and friendship.
