The Pursuit of Happyness
Will Smith, Thandiwe Newton, Jaden Smith
A struggling salesman takes custody of his son as he's poised to begin a life-changing professional career.
Why you'll love it
It's an inspiring story of a father's determination and resilience to provide a better life for his son, similar to the themes of personal growth in 'Wadjda' and 'Akeelah and the Bee'.
Billy Elliot
Jamie Bell, Julie Walters, Jean Heywood
A talented young boy becomes torn between his unexpected love of dance and the disintegration of his family.
Why you'll love it
This film tells the story of a boy who pursues his passion for dance despite societal expectations, echoing the themes of pursuing dreams in 'Akeelah and the Bee'.
Spellbound
Angela Arenivar, Ubaldo Arenivar, Jorge Arenivar
Spellbound follows eight teenagers on their quest to win the 1999 National Spelling Bee.
Why you'll love it
A documentary that follows several contestants of the National Spelling Bee, capturing the spirit of competition and personal growth similar to 'Akeelah and the Bee'.
Queen of Katwe
Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong'o
A Ugandan girl sees her world rapidly change after being introduced to the game of chess.
Why you'll love it
It follows a young girl from Uganda who aspires to become a chess champion, similar to Akeelah's journey in the world of spelling bees.
Bend It Like Beckham
Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, Jonathan Rhys Meyers
Jess Bhamra dreams of playing professional football, but her Sikh parents have plans for her: a law degree and a marriage. Jules, a white female striker, spots Jess playing football and invites her to join the local women's team.
Why you'll love it
This film showcases a young woman's struggle to play football against her traditional family's wishes, resonating with the theme of challenging norms present in 'Wadjda'.