5 Must-Watch Movies That Perfectly Capture the Struggles of Being Broke!

by

Money might not guarantee happiness, yet it undeniably simplifies life’s complexities. Conversely, being financially strapped offers neither joy nor ease. Many films explore this theme, and we’ve curated a collection that delves into the reality of utter destitution. These movies will amuse, sadden, and motivate you to persevere through life’s challenges. Let’s delve into our selection.

1. ‘Sorry We Missed You‘ (2019)

The Main Topic: Since the 2008 financial crisis, Ricky Turner and his family have been grappling with debt. With no formal education or professional background, Ricky seizes the chance to be a self-employed delivery driver for a franchise under Maloney’s watchful eye. To purchase a van for work, Ricky persuades his wife Abby to sell their family car, even though it is essential for her job as a home care nurse. The tough job conditions cause stress for Ricky and he incurs fines due to delays. Meanwhile, Abby’s job becomes increasingly difficult without a car, leading to a significant drop in the family’s quality of life.

Reason to watch: The film ‘Sorry We Missed You’ offers an unflinching portrayal of the harsh realities of the “gig economy.” This employment model often benefits the employer at the expense of the worker, leaving them with minimal free time and no insurance coverage for job-related or non-job related incidents. The film serves as a sobering reminder that hard work does not always guarantee success, and that the adage ‘the more you work, the more you succeed’ is not universally applicable.

2. ‘Rent’ (2005)

The main subject revolves around Christmas Eve 1989: Filmmaker Mark Cohen and his flatmate Roger Davis discover that their landlord, Benny Coffin III, intends to displace homeless people to construct a cyber studio. To achieve this, Benny proposes providing free rent as an incentive for Mark to convince his ex-girlfriend, Maureen, to call off her protest against his scheme. However, Mark and Roger refuse this proposition. Simultaneously, their former roommate Tom Collins gets mugged, subsequently forming a connection with a street drummer named Angel, who like Tom, is also living with HIV.

Why I Think You’ll Enjoy It: Steer clear if musicals aren’t your cup of tea, but if they resonate with you, get ready for an engaging watch! ‘Rent’, unlike other musicals, tackles more than just financial hardship; it delves into the unique struggles faced by individuals who are both economically disadvantaged and part of marginalized societal groups.

3. ‘Pursuit of Happyness‘ (2006)

In 1981, Chris Gardner put all his savings into bone-density scanners, hoping they could replace standard X-rays. Unfortunately, this plan didn’t pan out, leaving him bankrupt and on the brink of divorce. Struggling to make ends meet while caring for their young son, Christopher Jr., the financial instability also took a toll on Chris and his wife’s relationship.

During an unsuccessful sales pitch, Chris managed to impress Jay Twistle, a senior manager at an investment firm, by solving a Rubik’s Cube. Facing financial difficulties, he skipped paying for a taxi fare, leading to a chase into a BART station where he lost one of the scanners. However, this encounter with Jay eventually led Chris to secure an internship as a stockbroker.

Why it’s worth watching: ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ is a film inspired by real events about Chris Gardner’s struggle with homelessness before achieving great success and wealth. If you need a boost today on themes like resilience, determination, and the power of human spirit, this exceptional movie is definitely for you.

4. ‘Precious‘ (2009)

‘Precious’ narrates the story of Claireece Precious Jones, a resident of Harlem, New York, living in government-subsidized apartments alongside her unemployed mother. Precious grapples with numerous hardships – she is impoverished, intellectually disadvantaged, and obese, enduring ongoing verbal, physical, and sexual abuse. To compound matters, she is a young mom to one child already, expecting another. When Claireece’s school principal learns of her dire living conditions, she enrolls Precious in a unique program aimed at offering her some glimmer of hope for the future.

Why you ought to watch it: ‘Precious’ transcends the ordinary portrayal of poverty, presenting a character who is not only financially destitute but also mentally trapped, unable to escape her circumstances. The film showcases remarkable acting, particularly by Gabourey Sidibe as Precious and Mo’Nique as her abusive mother. Their performances have garnered acclaim, with Mo’Nique receiving an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

5. ‘The Florida Project‘ (2017)

In my own words: I’m six-year-old Moonee, dwelling with my resourceful mom Halley at an affordable motel close to Walt Disney World, Florida. With her recent job loss, Halley juggles life by peddling imitation perfumes to tourists and accepting food from Ashley, a diner employee. Yet, amidst our hardships, Scooty, Jancey, and I spend our summer days stirring up trouble while forging an unbreakable bond. All the while, Bobby, our caring motel manager, keeps a watchful eye on us.

Why you should watch it: What’s life like for those struggling financially even at the supposedly happiest place on Earth? ‘The Florida Project’ provides an answer, primarily through the perspective of its child characters. Although the film is set near Walt Disney World, it delves into the harsh reality of severe poverty.

Read More

2025-05-27 01:46