"A Streetcar Named Desire," a film adaptation of Tennessee Williams' renowned play, follows the journey of Blanche DuBois, a troubled former schoolteacher who relocates from small-town Mississippi to live with her sister, Stella Kowalski, and Stella's husband, Stanley, in the city of New Orleans.

Blanche's arrival in the Kowalski household brings forth a range of emotions, particularly given the existing volatility in Stella and Stanley's relationship. Blanche's Southern charm and coquettish demeanor clash with the raw atmosphere of her new surroundings, leading to increased tension within the family.

As the story progresses, Blanche's past comes to light, and her facade of composure begins to crack to reveal her vulnerabilities. Her presence acts as a catalyst that triggers even more intense conflicts and power struggles in the household.

The film's message of confronting one's past and the consequences of succumbing to illusions remains as relevant today as it was upon its release. As one of the best movies about the American dream, "A Streetcar Named Desire" serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of desires and the refuge in fantasy can lead to the unraveling of one's carefully constructed façade. The narrative explores the clash between reality and illusion, questioning the resilience of our human spirit.

Release: 1951

Stars: Vivien Leigh, Marlon Brando, Kim Hunter

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%

Set in 1927 Chicago, "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" follows the recording session of the legendary blues singer Ma Rainey (Viola Davis) and her band. As the band gathers at a recording studio, tensions rise among the musicians due to their varying ambitions and the presence of racial inequalities in the music industry.

Levee Green, a talented and ambitious trumpet player, dreams of having his own band and recording his own music. He clashes with the older, more experienced members of Ma Rainey's band, particularly Cutler and Toledo, who are skeptical of his brash and impulsive demeanor.

Throughout the session, Ma Rainey asserts her power and demands respect from the studio owner and her white manager, pushing back against their attempts to control her music and image. As the day progresses, tensions continue to mount, culminating in a heated confrontation between Levee and the other band members over a tragic incident from his past.

"Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" is a poignant and thought-provoking film that shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of African American artists during the Jazz Age. It presents a raw and unapologetic examination of race, power, and the quest for self-determination, leaving a lasting impact on its audience as one of the best movies about the American dream.

Release: 2020

Stars: Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Glynn Turman

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%

"Of Mice and Men" is a film adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novella set during the Great Depression. The story follows two drifters, George Milton and Lennie Small, who travel together in search of work on ranches in California.

George is intelligent and quick-witted, while Lennie is mentally disabled but armed with great physical strength. Despite their contrasting personalities, George cares deeply for Lennie and acts as his protector and caregiver. Lennie, on the other hand, looks up to George as a father figure and relies on him for guidance and companionship.

Throughout the film, George and Lennie's dream of owning a piece of land - a small farm where they can be independent and free from the struggles of migrant labor - remains a central theme, offering hope and solace to the two men amidst the harsh realities of their lives. The film's stellar performances, particularly by Gary Sinise and John Malkovich as our two protagonists, bring life to the characters and make "Of Mice and Men" one of the timeless, most classic cinematic works in history.

Release: 1992

Stars: John Malkovich, Gary Sinise, Ray Walston

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%

"Hustle & Flow" tells the story of DJay, a middle-aged pimp struggling to survive in the harsh streets of Memphis, Tennessee. Frustrated with his current life and yearning for a better future, he becomes determined to break free from his criminal lifestyle and pursue his passion for music.

Inspiration comes in the form of an old friend, now a successful figure in the recording industry, who reignites DJay's love for music. Drawing from his own experiences in the underground world, DJay channels his emotions and experiences into creating raw and powerful rap music.

With newfound motivation, DJay sets his sights on a life-changing opportunity when he learns that a renowned rap superstar will be visiting his city. Determined to seize the chance, he devises a plan to gain the rapper's attention and, ultimately, secure a record deal.

"Hustle & Flow" carries a message of hope, demonstrating that despite the challenges and setbacks in life, one can find strength in pursuing their passions and dreams. It challenges societal stereotypes and provides a glimpse into the complexities of human nature, reminding us that every individual has a story worth telling.

Release: 2005

Stars: Terrence Howard, Ludacris, Anthony Anderson

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%

"The Founder" tells the true story of Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton), a struggling salesman from Illinois who stumbles upon the fast-food restaurant McDonald's in 1954. Impressed by the efficiency and quality of the operation, which was run by brothers Richard "Dick" McDonald and Maurice "Mac" McDonald (John Carroll Lynch), Ray sees an opportunity to gain massive success and achieve his American dream.

Ray convinces the brothers to let him franchise the restaurant and takes on the task of expanding the business nationwide. As the McDonald's brand starts to grow, tensions arise between Ray and the original owners over control and profits. Ray's relentless ambition and ruthless business tactics lead him to eventually wrestle the rights to the McDonald's name and concept away from the brothers.

As the fast-food empire continues to flourish, Ray's success comes at a personal cost. He faces ethical dilemmas, betrays the trust of his business partners, and alienates his own wife. Despite the fame and fortune, Ray finds himself struggling with the price of his ambition.

In "The Founder," director John Lee Hancock expertly navigates the delicate balance between portraying Ray Kroc as a driven and ambitious entrepreneur while also highlighting the consequences of his actions. The film does not shy away from showcasing Kroc's flaws and the ethical challenges he faces, allowing the audience to form their own opinions about the his decisions.

Release: 2016
Stars: Michael Keaton, Nick Offerman, John Carroll Lynch

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%