If you were moved by the powerful drama of “Precious,” you’re in for a treat with these 20 similar films. Each of these movies delves deep into the human experience, offering compelling narratives and outstanding performances. Learn more about the genre here.

1. The Pursuit of Happyness

In this inspiring drama, Will Smith stars as Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who becomes homeless while raising his young son, played by Jaden Smith. The film highlights the challenges and triumphs of overcoming adversity.

2. The Color Purple

Based on Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this film tells the story of Celie, a young African-American woman in the early 20th century South. Starring Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Danny Glover, it explores themes of racism, sexism, and redemption.

3. Moonlight

This Academy Award-winning film follows the life of Chiron, a young black man grappling with his identity and sexuality while growing up in a rough Miami neighborhood. Starring Mahershala Ali and Trevante Rhodes, it’s a poignant exploration of self-discovery.

4. Fruitvale Station

Starring Michael B. Jordan, this film recounts the tragic true story of Oscar Grant, a young black man who was fatally shot by a police officer at the Fruitvale BART station. The movie highlights systemic racism and the impact of violence on communities.

5. Boyz n the Hood

Directed by John Singleton, this film follows the lives of three young African-American men in South Central Los Angeles. Starring Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, and Laurence Fishburne, it addresses issues of violence, friendship, and family.

6. Antwone Fisher

This biographical drama stars Derek Luke as Antwone Fisher, a young Navy sailor with a troubled past who finds solace and healing through therapy. Denzel Washington directs and co-stars in this moving story of redemption.

7. The Blind Side

Starring Sandra Bullock, this film tells the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American teenager who is taken in by a wealthy white family and goes on to become an NFL star. The movie explores themes of family, opportunity, and resilience.

8. Akeelah and the Bee

Keke Palmer stars as Akeelah, an eleven-year-old girl from South Los Angeles who competes in the National Spelling Bee. Supported by Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett, the film is a heartwarming tale of determination and community.

9. Stand and Deliver

This inspiring drama stars Edward James Olmos as Jaime Escalante, a high school teacher who motivates his underprivileged students to excel in mathematics. The film is based on a true story and highlights the power of education.

10. Lean on Me

Morgan Freeman stars as Joe Clark, a tough principal who turns around a troubled high school in New Jersey. This film is based on a true story and showcases the challenges and rewards of educational reform.

11. Freedom Writers

Hilary Swank stars as Erin Gruwell, a dedicated teacher who inspires her at-risk students to express themselves through writing. Based on a true story, the film underscores the transformative power of education and empathy.

12. Good Will Hunting

Matt Damon stars as Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT with a hidden genius for mathematics who struggles with his past and identity. Robin Williams co-stars as his therapist, in this powerful story of self-discovery and redemption.

13. Slumdog Millionaire

This film follows Jamal Malik, an 18-year-old from the slums of Mumbai who competes on the Indian version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” Starring Dev Patel, it’s a gripping tale of love, destiny, and resilience.

14. Erin Brockovich

Julia Roberts stars as Erin Brockovich, a single mother who takes on a powerful corporation accused of polluting a town’s water supply. Based on a true story, the film highlights the fight for justice and environmental activism.

15. Billy Elliot

This heartwarming film stars Jamie Bell as Billy, an 11-year-old boy from a coal mining town in England who discovers a passion for ballet. The movie explores themes of family, ambition, and breaking societal norms.

16. The Help

Set in the 1960s South, this film stars Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, and Emma Stone, and tells the story of African-American maids working in white households. It’s a powerful narrative about race, friendship, and courage.

17. 12 Years a Slave

This harrowing film stars Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup, a free black man who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. Directed by Steve McQueen, it’s a brutal yet essential look at America’s history of slavery.

18. Selma

Starring David Oyelowo as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., this film chronicles the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches. Directed by Ava DuVernay, it’s a powerful depiction of the civil rights movement.

19. Hidden Figures

This film stars Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe as three African-American women mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the Space Race. It’s an inspiring story of intellect, perseverance, and breaking barriers.

20. The Hate U Give

Based on Angie Thomas’s novel, this film stars Amandla Stenberg as Starr Carter, a young girl who witnesses the police shooting of her best friend. It tackles issues of race, identity, and activism in contemporary America.