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100+ Movies like The Help

4.1
2011 Drama

Discover movies that explore the themes of racial injustice, the struggles of domestic workers, and the power of friendship and solidarity, just like "The Help." This powerful drama set in 1960s Mississippi follows Aibileen and Minny, two African-American maids who share their harrowing experiences with an aspiring writer, Skeeter. Together, they expose the harsh realities of racism and discrimination faced by domestic workers, while also celebrating their resilience, courage, and the unbreakable bonds they forge. If you were moved by this poignant tale of overcoming adversity and fighting for change, explore our curated list of similar films that tackle these profound themes.

The Secret Life of Bees

The Secret Life of Bees

3.8
2008

Both "The Help" and "The Secret Life of Bees" are set in the American South during the 1960s and explore the themes of racism, the struggles of African Americans, and the relationships between black domestic workers and the white families they work for. The protagonists in both films are young white women who develop close bonds with black women and gain a deeper understanding of racial injustice. Key plot points include a young girl seeking to uncover the truth about her mother's past, black domestic workers facing abuse and discrimination, and the protagonists finding strength and community among the black women they befriend. The films depict the harsh realities of racism while celebrating the resilience, dignity, and humanity of the black characters.

The Color Purple

The Color Purple

5.0
2023

Both "The Color Purple" and "The Help" explore the struggles and mistreatment faced by African American women in the early-to-mid 20th century American South. The protagonists, Celie and Aibileen, are strong-willed black women who endure abuse and oppression from the white-dominated society. They find solace and support in their friendships with other black women like Shug Avery and Minny Jackson. The films depict the harsh realities of racism, domestic violence, and lack of opportunities for black women during that era. However, the protagonists ultimately find empowerment, self-worth, and the courage to stand up against their oppressors. Both movies shed light on the resilience and strength of black women in overcoming adversity and fighting for dignity and equality.

The Butler

The Butler

3.7
2013

Both "The Help" and "The Butler" are historical dramas that explore the experiences of African Americans facing systemic racism and oppression in the 20th century United States. The films follow the lives of black domestic workers and their relationships with the white families they serve, shedding light on the struggles and injustices they endure. Key parallels include: - The protagonists are African American domestic workers who witness and experience racial discrimination and segregation in their daily lives. - The stories span multiple decades, depicting the civil rights movement and the fight for equality and justice. - The main characters face difficult choices between standing up against injustice or maintaining the status quo to protect their livelihoods. - The films explore the complex relationships and dynamics between the black domestic workers and the white families they serve, highlighting both tensions and moments of understanding. - Major events like the assassination of Medgar Evers, the Birmingham Children's Crusade, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 serve as pivotal moments that inspire the characters to take action. - The protagonists ultimately find their voices and courage to challenge the oppressive systems, even at great personal risk, leading to personal growth and societal change.

Till

Till

3.8
2022

Both "The Help" and "Till" explore the harsh realities of racism and racial injustice in the American South during the mid-20th century. They depict the struggles and mistreatment faced by African Americans, particularly through the lens of personal stories and experiences. The movies highlight the courage and resilience of those who stood up against oppression, like Mamie Till and the maids in "The Help", and the pivotal roles they played in sparking the Civil Rights Movement. Key themes include racial violence, discrimination, victim-blaming, and the fight for equality and justice. The plots revolve around tragic, racially-motivated crimes that galvanize activism and social change.

Mississippi Damned

Mississippi Damned

3.0
2009

Both "The Help" and "Mississippi Damned" explore the harsh realities of racism, poverty, and oppression faced by African Americans in Mississippi, particularly women and families. The films depict cycles of abuse, violence, and destructive behaviors stemming from systemic injustice and lack of opportunity. Key parallels include: - Black female protagonists struggling against societal constraints and mistreatment, seeking dignity and a better life. - Themes of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and the toll of trauma on families and communities. - Portrayals of resilience, friendship, and solidarity among the oppressed characters as they support each other. - Narratives that expose the damaging legacy of racism and inequality, while highlighting the strength and perseverance of those affected. - Arcs of characters pursuing education, careers, and escape from their circumstances as paths to empowerment and breaking generational cycles.

Little Women

Little Women

4.0
2019

Both "The Help" and "Little Women" explore the themes of female empowerment, overcoming societal constraints, and the pursuit of personal ambitions. The protagonists in both films - Skeeter in "The Help" and Jo in "Little Women" - defy traditional gender roles and expectations by pursuing careers in writing, challenging the status quo. They form close bonds with other women who support their aspirations, such as the maids in "The Help" and Jo's sisters in "Little Women". The stories depict the struggles these women face in a male-dominated society, but ultimately celebrate their determination and resilience in achieving their goals. Additionally, both films address issues of social injustice and inequality, with "The Help" tackling racism and "Little Women" touching on class divides.

Precious

Precious

3.7
2009

Both "The Help" and "Precious" depict the struggles and abuse faced by African American women in oppressive environments. The protagonists, Aibileen and Precious, endure physical, emotional, and sexual abuse from those around them. They find solace and support through mentors (Ms. Rain and Skeeter) who help them gain literacy and self-confidence. The films explore themes of racism, poverty, and the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming trauma. Key plot points involve the protagonists breaking free from their abusive situations and finding hope for a better future through education and self-empowerment. The stories parallel each other in their raw, unflinching portrayals of the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities.

Freedom Song

Freedom Song

2.9
2000

Both "The Help" and "Freedom Song" are set in the 1960s American South and explore the themes of racism, segregation, and the civil rights movement from the perspective of African Americans. The protagonists in both films are young people who become involved in the struggle for racial equality, facing resistance and backlash from the white establishment. Key plot points include the humiliation and mistreatment of black characters by racist whites, the efforts to register black voters and stage nonviolent protests like sit-ins, and the eventual triumph of the civil rights movement in dismantling segregation laws. The films depict the courage and resilience of black communities in the face of oppression, as well as the importance of allies in the fight for justice.

Jewel

Jewel

2.4
2001

Both "The Help" and "Jewel" explore the struggles and resilience of mothers caring for children with special needs in the face of societal prejudice and discrimination. The central characters, Aibileen and Jewel, are devoted mothers who fiercely love and advocate for their children, Mae Mobley and Brenda Kay, despite the challenges they face. Both films depict the mothers' battles against the ignorance and cruelty of those around them, as well as their determination to provide the best possible care and opportunities for their children. The stories parallel each other in their portrayal of the deep emotional bonds between mother and child, the sacrifices made for the child's well-being, and the mothers' unwavering commitment to nurturing their children's growth and independence. Ultimately, both films celebrate the power of a mother's love to overcome adversity and societal barriers.

The Paperboy

The Paperboy

2.8
2012

Both "The Help" and "The Paperboy" explore themes of racism, social injustice, and the mistreatment of marginalized groups in the Southern United States during the 1960s. The stories center around young, idealistic writers who seek to expose the harsh realities faced by African Americans and other oppressed communities. In "The Help", Skeeter interviews black maids to document their experiences, while in "The Paperboy", Ward and Yardley investigate a wrongful conviction to shed light on systemic racism. The narratives involve complex relationships between the writers and those they aim to help, as well as tensions with the racist establishment. Ultimately, the protagonists face backlash and personal sacrifices for their pursuit of truth and justice, but their efforts lead to greater awareness and societal change.

The Thirteenth Tale

The Thirteenth Tale

3.3
2013

Both "The Help" and "The Thirteenth Tale" explore themes of oppression, racism, and the mistreatment of marginalized groups through the lens of female protagonists. The stories follow young women writers (Skeeter and Margaret) who uncover dark secrets and disturbing truths about the past through their relationships with older women (the maids and Vida). The plots revolve around the protagonists' efforts to give a voice to those who have been silenced and bring their stories to light, challenging the status quo and systemic injustices. Key narrative arcs involve overcoming societal barriers, confronting personal demons, and finding the courage to expose harsh realities. The films also depict the complex dynamics between women of different social classes and races, highlighting the power of empathy, compassion, and solidarity in the face of adversity.

Jean of the Joneses

Jean of the Joneses

3.3
2016

Both "The Help" and "Jean of the Joneses" explore the complex dynamics and relationships within families, particularly between women of different generations and backgrounds. The central characters, Skeeter in "The Help" and Jean in "Jean of the Joneses", are aspiring writers navigating their careers and personal lives while confronting societal issues and family secrets. The movies delve into themes of racial prejudice, identity, and the struggles of marginalized communities. They also highlight the resilience and strength of women in overcoming adversity and finding their voices. The plots revolve around revelations about estranged family members, with Skeeter uncovering the truth about her maid Constantine and Jean learning about her grandfather Gordan. Both films culminate in a sense of healing and reconciliation within the families after confronting painful truths.

Big Stone Gap

Big Stone Gap

3.0
2014

Both "The Help" and "Big Stone Gap" explore themes of racism, discrimination, and the struggles of marginalized communities in small Southern towns. The protagonists, Skeeter in "The Help" and Ave Maria in "Big Stone Gap", are independent women who challenge societal norms and fight for equality and justice. They form close bonds with African American characters like Aibileen and Minny in "The Help", and the Melungeon community in "Big Stone Gap", giving a voice to their stories and experiences. The plots revolve around the protagonists' personal journeys of self-discovery, overcoming prejudices, and standing up against oppressive social structures. Both films depict the harsh realities of racism and discrimination faced by minorities, while celebrating their resilience, strength, and the power of community.

A Madea Christmas

A Madea Christmas

3.3
2013

Both "A Madea Christmas" and "The Help" explore themes of racism and prejudice in the American South, with a focus on the struggles and mistreatment faced by African Americans. In "The Help", the story centers around African American maids sharing their experiences of discrimination and oppression, while in "A Madea Christmas", the interracial marriage between Lacey and Conner faces opposition from Lacey's mother Eileen due to her prejudiced views. The movies also depict characters overcoming their biases and finding acceptance, with Eileen eventually coming to terms with her daughter's marriage. Additionally, both films feature strong female protagonists who stand up against injustice and work to create positive change in their communities.

Mudbound

Mudbound

3.7
2017

Both "The Help" and "Mudbound" are set in the racially segregated American South during the mid-20th century and explore the struggles and mistreatment faced by African Americans, particularly those working as domestic servants for white families. The stories follow parallel narratives of black and white characters whose lives intersect, revealing the harsh realities of racism, poverty, and social injustice. Key themes include the dehumanizing effects of racism, the strength and resilience of oppressed communities, and the moral awakening of white characters who confront the evils of prejudice. Both films depict the brutality of racist violence, with "Mudbound" featuring a graphic scene of a hate crime by the Ku Klux Klan. The stories also highlight the importance of human dignity, compassion, and the pursuit of equality in the face of oppression.

Harriet

Harriet

3.7
2019

Both "The Help" and "Harriet" depict the struggles and resilience of African American women against racial oppression and injustice in different historical periods. The protagonists, Aibileen and Harriet Tubman, are strong-willed women who defy societal norms and risk their safety to fight for freedom and equality. They inspire others to join their cause, with Aibileen contributing to a book exposing the mistreatment of maids, and Harriet becoming a conductor on the Underground Railroad, freeing dozens of slaves. The films portray the cruelty of racist individuals like Hilly and Gideon Brodess, contrasted with the compassion of allies like Skeeter and William Still. Ultimately, the protagonists' courage and determination lead to personal growth, societal change, and a powerful legacy of resistance against oppression.

Shirley

Shirley

3.0
2020

Both "The Help" and "Shirley" explore the dynamics of power, oppression, and marginalization through the lens of women's experiences. In "The Help", African-American maids in 1960s Mississippi share their stories of discrimination and mistreatment by their white employers, while in "Shirley", a young housewife becomes entangled in the dysfunctional relationship between a famous writer and her husband. The movies parallel each other in depicting the struggles of women navigating societal constraints and finding their voices. Key similarities include the central female protagonists overcoming oppressive circumstances, the exploration of complex relationships between women of different backgrounds, and the themes of empowerment and self-discovery through writing and storytelling.

Maudie

Maudie

3.9
2016

Both "The Help" and "Maudie" explore the struggles and resilience of marginalized women in the face of societal prejudice and oppression. The protagonists, Aibileen and Maud, are strong-willed individuals who find solace and empowerment through their creative pursuits - writing and painting, respectively. They form unlikely bonds with individuals from the privileged class, Skeeter and Everett, who help amplify their voices and stories. The films shed light on the harsh realities of discrimination, domestic abuse, and the pursuit of dignity and self-worth. Ultimately, the protagonists overcome adversity and find fulfillment in their art, leaving a lasting impact on their communities and those around them.

Deadly Illusions

Deadly Illusions

2.5
2021

Both "Deadly Illusions" and "The Help" explore themes of deception, betrayal, and the darker side of relationships. In "The Help", the maids share their stories anonymously to expose the racism and mistreatment they face, paralleling how Mary in "Deadly Illusions" writes a book inspired by her nanny Grace's disturbing behavior. The nanny characters, Aibileen and Grace, play central roles in revealing uncomfortable truths about the protagonists' lives. Both films depict the protagonists, Skeeter and Mary, navigating complex social dynamics and facing backlash for their actions that challenge the status quo. Ultimately, the movies shed light on the struggles and hardships faced by marginalized individuals in their respective settings.

The Boss

The Boss

2.9
2016

Both "The Help" and "The Boss" follow the story of a strong-willed woman who faces adversity and societal prejudices, but ultimately overcomes them through determination and the support of an unlikely group. In "The Help", Skeeter challenges racial segregation by writing a book exposing the mistreatment of black maids, while in "The Boss", Michelle Darnell rebuilds her business empire after being imprisoned for insider trading with the help of a former employee and her daughter. The protagonists in both films confront powerful antagonists (Hilly in "The Help" and Renault in "The Boss") who represent the oppressive societal norms they are fighting against. Both movies also explore themes of female empowerment, overcoming adversity, and the importance of found family and support systems. The character arcs of Skeeter and Michelle parallel each other as they grow from privileged but naive individuals to champions of social change and self-made success through their experiences and relationships with the supporting characters.