If you loved the drama and depth of The Help, you’re in for a treat! This genre often explores complex social issues, human relationships, and personal growth. Here are 15 movies that capture similar themes and emotions. For trailers, click on the provided links to see a glimpse of each film.
1. The Color Purple
The Color Purple is a heart-wrenching tale of a young African American woman named Celie, who faces a lifetime of abuse and hardship. Starring Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Danny Glover, this film is a powerful exploration of resilience and redemption.
2. Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures tells the inspiring true story of three African American women mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, this film highlights their incredible contributions and perseverance.
3. The Butler
The Butler follows the life of Cecil Gaines, an African American butler who served eight presidents at the White House. Forest Whitaker leads an all-star cast including Oprah Winfrey and David Oyelowo in this sweeping historical drama.
4. 12 Years a Slave
12 Years a Slave is based on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free African American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. Chiwetel Ejiofor delivers a stunning performance, with support from Lupita Nyong’o and Michael Fassbender.
5. The Secret Life of Bees
Set in 1964 South Carolina, The Secret Life of Bees follows a young girl named Lily Owens who is searching for answers about her mother. Featuring Dakota Fanning, Queen Latifah, and Jennifer Hudson, this film explores themes of family, race, and self-discovery.
6. Fences
Fences is a gripping drama about a former baseball player turned garbage man who struggles to provide for his family while dealing with his own regrets. Denzel Washington and Viola Davis deliver powerhouse performances in this adaptation of August Wilson’s play.
7. The Pursuit of Happyness
Based on a true story, The Pursuit of Happyness follows Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who fights to create a better life for his son. Will Smith and his real-life son Jaden Smith star in this uplifting drama about determination and hope.
8. The Long Walk Home
Set during the Montgomery Bus Boycott, The Long Walk Home tells the story of two women, one African American and one white, who form an unlikely friendship. Starring Whoopi Goldberg and Sissy Spacek, this film highlights the impact of the civil rights movement.
9. Selma
Selma chronicles the historic 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. David Oyelowo stars as Dr. King, supported by Carmen Ejogo and Tom Wilkinson, in this powerful portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history.
10. The Blind Side
The Blind Side tells the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless teenager who becomes an All-American football player with the help of a caring woman and her family. Sandra Bullock and Quinton Aaron star in this heartwarming drama about compassion and opportunity.
11. Loving
Loving is based on the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple whose marriage led to a landmark Supreme Court case. Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga deliver compelling performances in this poignant film about love and justice.
12. The Great Debaters
Inspired by true events, The Great Debaters follows a debate team from a small African American college as they challenge the status quo. Denzel Washington directs and stars alongside Forest Whitaker and Kimberly Elise in this inspiring drama.
13. The Shack
The Shack is a spiritual journey of a man who meets God in a shack after suffering a great loss. Starring Sam Worthington, Octavia Spencer, and Tim McGraw, this film explores themes of faith, redemption, and healing.
14. To Kill a Mockingbird
Based on Harper Lee’s classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird follows lawyer Atticus Finch as he defends a wrongfully accused African American man in the racially charged South. Gregory Peck stars in this timeless film about justice and morality.
15. Mississippi Burning
Mississippi Burning is a gripping drama about two FBI agents investigating the disappearance of civil rights activists in 1964 Mississippi. Gene Hackman and Willem Dafoe lead this intense film that delves into the depths of racial hatred and the fight for justice.
