Movies like American Heart

In Stand by Me, a group of young boys set out on an adventure searching for a dead body, but ultimately it's a journey of self-discovery and the bonds of friendship. Its heartfelt and sincere approach to coming-of-age trials complements the evocative storytelling of American Heart.

Based on a true story, The Pursuit of Happyness sees Will Smith as a struggling salesman who becomes homeless with his young son, fighting to create a better life. Fans of American Heart will resonate with this gripping tale of fatherhood and the pursuit against all odds.

Moonlight is a beautifully poignant film charting the life of a young man grappling with his identity and personal relationships in Miami. The film shares American Heart's deep dive into a character's struggle for self-discovery and connection.

The Basketball Diaries explores the descent of a promising high school basketball star into drug addiction. Like American Heart, it provides a realistic portrayal of how life's limits can push young men to the edge.

My Own Private Idaho follows two friends living on the streets of Portland as they embark on a journey of personal discovery. Similar to American Heart, it offers an exploration of complex relationships amid the harsh realities of life.

In Boys Don't Cry, a young transgender man navigates love and identity in rural America. While thematically different, the grittiness and raw emotional grounding will appeal to those who appreciated the authenticity of American Heart.

In A Perfect World, a kidnapped boy forms a bond with his convict abductor, played by Kevin Costner. This film's intricate look at a makeshift father-son relationship echoes the themes of family and redemption found within American Heart.

South Central presents a powerful story of a former gang member reentering society and seeking to keep his son from gang life. This film draws parallels to American Heart through its themes of crime, family, and hope for change.