What makes a hero? Often, it’s the stories of ordinary people who conquer extraordinary challenges. These five films highlight real-life tales of bravery, resilience, and perseverance, reminding us of the human spirit’s power to overcome adversity. Each film redefines what it means to be brave, offering both emotional and thrilling experiences. Some are available to stream now; others will soon be hitting cinemas.
Hidden Figures: Breaking Barriers in Space
Hidden Figures showcases the groundbreaking contributions of three African-American women at NASA during the space race. Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson used their exceptional mathematical skills to help launch astronaut John Glenn into space in 1962, at a time when racism and sexism were rampant in the workplace.
Why Watch?
Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe bring these unsung heroes to life in a feel-good, fast-paced film that’s both uplifting and eye-opening. Their courage in the face of prejudice and their pioneering efforts in the male-dominated field of space science make this film an inspiring must-watch.
Stream on: Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV, and more.
The Salt Path: A Search for Home
In The Salt Path, Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs star in this adaptation of Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir. When Raynor’s husband, Moth, was diagnosed with a terminal illness, they lost their home and faced homelessness. Undeterred, they embarked on a life-changing journey along Britain’s dramatic coastline.
Why Watch?
This is not just a tale of survival but also one of profound human connection. The couple’s year-long, 630-mile trek in harsh conditions is a remarkable story of resilience and transformation. With the breathtaking scenery of the British coast and a deeply emotional journey, The Salt Path shows the healing power of nature and the indomitable human spirit.
The Salt Path will be in UK cinemas from May 30.
Last Breath: Ripped-From-the-Headlines Thriller
Last Breath is a heart-pounding thriller based on the true story of a 2012 deep-sea diving accident. Diver Chris Lemons was trapped 300 feet beneath the North Sea with only five minutes of oxygen left when a freak storm caused the ship to drift away, leaving him stranded.
Why Watch?
This intense, real-life survival story, starring Woody Harrelson, is one of the most dramatic diving accidents in recent memory. The film captures the suffocating fear and tension of Chris’s life-or-death struggle in the icy depths of the ocean. If you love thrillers that make your heart race, this is one you won’t want to miss.
In UK cinemas now.
The Pursuit of Happyness: Against the Odds
In The Pursuit of Happyness, Will Smith stars as Chris Gardner, a homeless salesman who becomes a stockbroker intern while raising his young son, played by Jaden Smith. Despite being penniless and homeless, Chris never loses hope, eventually finding success.
Why Watch?
This heartfelt drama is a timeless story about overcoming hardship. The father-son bond at the heart of the film makes it emotionally powerful and deeply inspiring. The Pursuit of Happyness touches on themes of poverty, perseverance, and the lengths a parent will go to for their child, making it a compelling watch for viewers of all ages.
Stream on: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
Rabbit-Proof Fence: The Stolen Ones
Rabbit-Proof Fence is a hard-hitting Australian drama based on the true story of three young Indigenous girls who were forcibly removed from their families by the government in the 1930s. Molly, Daisy, and Gracie were sent to a government-run institution, but they made a daring 1,500-mile escape, relying only on their wits and the rabbit-proof fence to guide them home.
Why Watch?
This powerful film sheds light on a dark chapter of Australian history—the forced removal of Indigenous children from their families. The young girls’ courage and determination to return to their families against all odds make this a harrowing and unforgettable story of survival. The film is a stark reminder of the injustices faced by Indigenous people, but also of their strength and resilience.
Stream on: Available on various streaming platforms.
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