100+ Movies like Hidden Figures
The Old Negro Space Program
Both "The Old Negro Space Program" and "Hidden Figures" depict the struggles and achievements of African Americans in the space program during the 1960s, when racial segregation and discrimination were prevalent. The protagonists in both films face systemic racism and barriers due to their race and gender, but persevere through determination and brilliance. "Hidden Figures" follows the true story of Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan, who made significant contributions to NASA as mathematicians and engineers, while "The Old Negro Space Program" is a fictional account of an independent group of African American astronauts forming their own space program in the face of NASA's racial exclusion. Both films highlight the resilience and ingenuity of their characters in overcoming adversity and achieving remarkable feats in the pursuit of space exploration, ultimately gaining recognition for their groundbreaking work despite the societal prejudices of the time.
Lucy in the Sky
Both "Lucy in the Sky" and "Hidden Figures" center around women working in the male-dominated field of space exploration and facing discrimination and obstacles due to their gender. The protagonists are driven, ambitious women who excel in their roles but face setbacks and resistance from their male colleagues and superiors. They must overcome systemic barriers and prove their capabilities to achieve their goals in the space program. The movies depict the protagonists' struggles for recognition and respect in their professions, as well as their personal challenges balancing career ambitions with family life. Ultimately, the films celebrate the protagonists' perseverance and pioneering accomplishments in breaking down gender barriers in the space industry.
I.S.S.
Both "I.S.S." and "Hidden Figures" depict a group of underrepresented individuals overcoming discrimination and adversity to make significant contributions to the space program. In "Hidden Figures", African American women mathematicians at NASA face racial and gender barriers while calculating critical flight trajectories. Similarly, in "I.S.S.", the diverse crew of American and Russian astronauts aboard the International Space Station must work together despite cultural tensions and a nuclear war erupting on Earth. The protagonists in each film persevere through prejudice and opposition to achieve their goals, highlighting themes of determination, unity, and the pursuit of knowledge. The movies parallel each other in showcasing marginalized groups defying societal norms to advance humanity's exploration of space.
First Man
Both "Hidden Figures" and "First Man" depict the struggles and triumphs of key figures in the early U.S. space program during the 1960s. They follow the stories of pioneering individuals overcoming discrimination and adversity to make groundbreaking contributions to NASA's efforts to achieve major milestones in the Space Race against the Soviet Union. The movies highlight the personal sacrifices and determination required to push the boundaries of human achievement in space exploration. While "Hidden Figures" focuses on the African-American women mathematicians who played crucial roles in calculating flight trajectories, "First Man" centers on Neil Armstrong's journey to becoming the first person to walk on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission. Both films depict the intense pressure and risks faced by those involved in the space program, as well as the emotional toll on their families. Ultimately, they celebrate the historic accomplishments made possible by the perseverance and brilliance of these unsung heroes.
The Imitation Game
Both "Hidden Figures" and "The Imitation Game" depict the struggles and triumphs of brilliant minds working against discrimination and prejudice to make groundbreaking contributions during wartime. The protagonists - Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Alan Turing - face systemic barriers due to their race, gender, and sexuality, yet persevere through adversity to achieve remarkable feats in mathematics, engineering, and cryptography that aid their nations' war efforts. Despite facing dismissal, segregation, and oppression, they overcome institutional biases and prove their intellectual capabilities, ultimately earning recognition for their pivotal roles in the Space Race and cracking the Enigma code. The films parallel the protagonists' journeys of resilience, determination, and triumph over discrimination to make invaluable impacts in their respective fields.
Fly Me to the Moon
Both "Fly Me to the Moon" and "Hidden Figures" revolve around the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union in the 1960s, with a focus on the historic Apollo 11 moon landing mission. They depict the determination and struggles of unlikely heroes - anthropomorphized flies in "Fly Me to the Moon" and African American women mathematicians in "Hidden Figures" - who play crucial behind-the-scenes roles in the success of the mission. The movies highlight the racial and gender discrimination faced by the protagonists, as well as their perseverance in overcoming these obstacles. They also showcase the intense rivalry between the US and Soviet operatives trying to undermine each other's space efforts. Ultimately, both films celebrate the triumph of the human (or fly) spirit and the achievement of a monumental scientific milestone.
Gifted
Both "Hidden Figures" and "Gifted" explore the struggles and triumphs of gifted women in male-dominated fields. The protagonists, Katherine Johnson and Mary Adler, face societal barriers and discrimination due to their gender and race, but persevere through their exceptional mathematical abilities. They are supported by mentors who recognize their talents, like Al Harrison and Frank Adler, while facing opposition from those who underestimate them, such as Paul Stafford and Evelyn Adler. The films highlight the importance of nurturing gifted individuals while allowing them to have normal childhoods, and the protagonists ultimately achieve success in their respective fields despite the obstacles. Both movies celebrate the empowerment of women in STEM and the breaking of societal barriers through determination and talent.
The Midnight Sky
Both "Hidden Figures" and "The Midnight Sky" explore themes of perseverance, overcoming adversity, and the pursuit of scientific progress. In "Hidden Figures", a group of brilliant African-American women mathematicians at NASA defy racial and gender discrimination to make groundbreaking contributions to the space program. Similarly, in "The Midnight Sky", Augustine Lofthouse, a reclusive academic, risks his life to warn a space crew about a cataclysmic event on Earth and ensure their survival, overcoming personal struggles and physical limitations. Both films highlight the dedication and sacrifices made by individuals in the face of immense challenges to advance humanity's exploration of space and scientific understanding. Additionally, the movies share a focus on the importance of human connections, as seen in Katherine's relationships in "Hidden Figures" and Augustine's bond with his estranged daughter Sully in "The Midnight Sky".
The Dish
Both "Hidden Figures" and "The Dish" depict true stories of underappreciated groups overcoming adversity and discrimination to make crucial contributions to historic space missions. In "Hidden Figures", African-American women mathematicians at NASA face racial and gender barriers while calculating critical flight trajectories for the Mercury and Apollo programs. Similarly in "The Dish", the Australian team operating the Parkes Radio Telescope is initially underestimated by NASA but ends up providing the iconic footage of the Apollo 11 moon landing against all odds. The movies parallel each other in highlighting the vital yet overlooked roles played by marginalized groups in major scientific achievements, and their perseverance in the face of prejudice and systemic obstacles.
Moonfall
Both "Hidden Figures" and "Moonfall" feature stories of overcoming adversity and discrimination to achieve groundbreaking accomplishments in space exploration. In "Hidden Figures", a group of brilliant African American women mathematicians at NASA face racial and gender discrimination but persevere to play crucial roles in the early space program, including calculating trajectories for key missions. Similarly, in "Moonfall", a diverse team including a disgraced astronaut and a conspiracy theorist must overcome skepticism and obstacles to uncover the truth about the Moon's artificial nature and prevent a catastrophic collision with Earth. Both films highlight the importance of marginalized individuals' contributions to major scientific achievements and the struggle against systemic biases. Additionally, both movies depict the high stakes and dangers involved in space missions, as well as the personal sacrifices made by those dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and exploration.
Interstellar
Both "Hidden Figures" and "Interstellar" revolve around the themes of space exploration and overcoming adversity in pursuit of scientific progress. The protagonists in both films are driven by a desire to push the boundaries of human knowledge and make groundbreaking discoveries. They face societal barriers and discrimination, whether due to race, gender, or skepticism about their abilities, but persevere through determination and intellect. The movies parallel each other in depicting the vital roles played by brilliant mathematicians and scientists, often working behind the scenes, in enabling major space missions and technological advancements. They highlight the collaborative efforts required for such ambitious endeavors, with diverse teams coming together to solve complex problems. Both films also explore the personal sacrifices made by the characters, such as being separated from loved ones, in order to achieve their goals. The protagonists must grapple with difficult choices between their professional pursuits and personal lives, ultimately prioritizing their contributions to humanity's greater good.
Ape vs. Monster
Both "Ape vs. Monster" and "Hidden Figures" follow the stories of marginalized groups overcoming discrimination and prejudice to make significant contributions to the space program. In "Hidden Figures", three African American women mathematicians at NASA face racial and gender barriers but ultimately play crucial roles in major space missions. Similarly, in "Ape vs. Monster", Dr. Linda Murphy faces skepticism due to her gender but leads efforts to understand and control a mutated chimpanzee astronaut, Abraham, who becomes vital in repelling an alien invasion. The protagonists in both films defy societal expectations, challenge authority figures, and prove their capabilities in high-stakes, space-related endeavors. Themes of perseverance, breaking down barriers, and achieving recognition for marginalized groups are central to both narratives.
Space Cowboys
Both "Hidden Figures" and "Space Cowboys" revolve around groups of underappreciated individuals who make crucial contributions to the U.S. space program despite facing discrimination and adversity. In "Hidden Figures", a team of African-American women mathematicians at NASA overcome racial and gender barriers to play vital roles in key space missions, including the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Similarly, in "Space Cowboys", a group of aging former Air Force pilots and engineers, initially dismissed due to their age, are called upon to repair a Soviet satellite and end up saving the day through their unique skills and experience. Both films highlight the perseverance and determination of these marginalized groups in overcoming societal prejudices and proving their worth in the face of skepticism and institutional barriers. The movies also share themes of teamwork, personal sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
On the Basis of Sex
Both "Hidden Figures" and "On the Basis of Sex" depict the struggles of pioneering women fighting against systemic discrimination and gender barriers in male-dominated fields during the 1960s. The protagonists - Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, Dorothy Vaughan in "Hidden Figures", and Ruth Bader Ginsburg in "On the Basis of Sex" - face blatant sexism and prejudice in their workplaces and careers. They persevere through adversity, challenging unjust laws and policies, and ultimately achieve groundbreaking accomplishments that pave the way for greater equality and opportunities for women. The films highlight the protagonists' resilience, intellect, and determination to overcome societal norms and biases, while also depicting their personal struggles to balance career ambitions with family responsibilities. Both movies celebrate the pivotal roles these trailblazing women played in advancing civil rights and gender equality through their pioneering work.
Race to Space
Both "Hidden Figures" and "Race to Space" explore the themes of overcoming racial and gender barriers in the context of the 1960s space race between the United States and the Soviet Union. In "Hidden Figures", African American women mathematicians at NASA face discrimination and segregation, but persevere to make crucial contributions to the space program. Similarly, in "Race to Space", a young boy named Billy forms a bond with a chimpanzee astronaut and helps train it for a historic space mission, while also uncovering a sabotage plot that threatens the mission. The movies parallel each other in depicting the struggles and triumphs of marginalized individuals in the male-dominated, racially segregated world of 1960s NASA and the space race.
Hawking
Both "Hidden Figures" and "Hawking" follow the stories of brilliant minds overcoming societal barriers and discrimination to make groundbreaking scientific contributions. The protagonists face skepticism and dismissal from their peers due to prejudices against their race, gender, or disabilities. However, through perseverance and dedication to their work, they ultimately gain recognition and respect for their achievements. The movies parallel each other in depicting the protagonists' struggles against systemic discrimination and their determination to pursue their passions despite adversity. They highlight the importance of mentors and supportive figures who encourage the protagonists to challenge the status quo. Both films culminate in the protagonists' pivotal roles in major scientific breakthroughs that advance human knowledge and understanding of the universe. The overarching themes of challenging societal norms, overcoming prejudice through intellectual prowess, and the pursuit of scientific truth despite obstacles are common threads that connect the narratives of "Hidden Figures" and "Hawking".
The Challenger
Both "Hidden Figures" and "The Challenger" depict real-life stories of individuals fighting against systemic discrimination and bureaucracy to reveal the truth and make important contributions to the U.S. space program. In "Hidden Figures", Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan face racial and gender discrimination at NASA but persevere to play crucial roles in major space missions. Similarly, in "The Challenger", Dr. Richard Feynman battles NASA's culture of secrecy and public relations spin to uncover the truth behind the Challenger disaster, despite opposition from the presidential commission. Both films highlight the struggles of marginalized groups and individuals challenging authority and established norms to advance scientific progress and accountability.
Space Odyssey: Voyage to the Planets
Both "Hidden Figures" and "Space Odyssey: Voyage to the Planets" follow the stories of pioneering groups overcoming adversity and discrimination to make groundbreaking contributions to the space program. In "Hidden Figures", a team of African-American women mathematicians at NASA face racial and gender discrimination but persevere to play crucial roles in major space missions like the Mercury and Apollo programs. Similarly, in "Space Odyssey", the diverse crew of the Pegasus spacecraft, including women and people of different nationalities, confront challenges and setbacks during their ambitious multi-year voyage to explore the planets of the solar system. The movies parallel each other in depicting the determination and brilliance of underrepresented groups in STEM fields who defy societal biases to achieve remarkable scientific and technological feats that advance humanity's exploration of space.
A Million Miles Away
"A Million Miles Away" parallels "Hidden Figures" in depicting the struggles and triumphs of an underrepresented minority overcoming systemic barriers to achieve greatness in the field of aerospace engineering and space exploration. Both films follow the journey of a talented individual from a disadvantaged background who faces discrimination and obstacles due to their race and socioeconomic status, but perseveres through hard work, determination, and the support of mentors. The protagonists defy societal expectations, break down racial barriers, and make groundbreaking contributions to NASA's space program, ultimately earning recognition and inspiring future generations. The movies celebrate diversity, highlight the importance of equal opportunity, and showcase the transformative power of pursuing one's dreams against all odds.
LOLA
Both "Hidden Figures" and "LOLA" center around brilliant women who make groundbreaking contributions to major historical events despite facing discrimination and adversity. In "Hidden Figures", Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan overcome racial and gender barriers to play crucial roles in the early U.S. space program. Similarly, in "LOLA", the sisters Thomasina and Martha use their invention to aid the British war effort during World War II, facing skepticism and opposition from authorities. Both films highlight the resilience and determination of the protagonists in overcoming systemic injustice and societal prejudices to achieve remarkable accomplishments that impact the course of history. The stories parallel each other in depicting the struggles and triumphs of marginalized individuals who defy expectations and challenge the status quo through their intelligence and perseverance.