There are certain types of stories that really seem to resonate with fans and become regular fixtures in movies. The classic rags-to-riches story certainly falls into that category and continues to be beloved by audiences. These stories focus on a character who starts the story from meager beginnings only to achieve great things and find unexpected success.
What is interesting about this type of story is how many different ways it can be told. It can be an inspiring tale of overcoming the odds or a cautionary tale of the dark side of ambition. While there are countless examples of the rags-to-riches stories, there are some that have come to define the genre.
Trading Places (1983)
The buddy comedy Trading Places has the unique opportunity to tell two very different rags-to-riches stories. The movie stars Dan Aykroyd as a successful investor and Eddie Murphy as a street con artist who becomes the target of a bet by bored millionaires.
The rich men decide to see what will happen when Aykroyd and Murphy switch places, with the investor losing everything and the con artist suddenly introduced to a life of luxury. The highlight of the movie is seeing Murphy's character get used to his new life, but it is also fun seeing Aykroyd attempt to get his old life back.
Annie (1982)
In the big-screen adaptation of the famous Broadway musical, Annie tells the story of a young street tough orphan who is suddenly taken in by a rich businessman. Her spunky spirit and cheerful demeanor brighten up the lives of the rich household while others try to capitalize on Annie's newfound wealth.
Set during the 1930s, this is the perfect fairy tale story of the Depression Era. What makes the story so heartwarming, besides the memorable music, is the fact that Annie is so likable and the audience wants to see her find a happy life.
Cinderella (1950)
Most rags-to-riches stories feel like fairy tales of sorts, and many of them draw inspiration from the classic tale of Cinderella. While there are many different takes on this story, the Disney animated version stands out as the best for most fans.
It follows the titular Cinderella, a kind young girl who lives as a destitute servant for her evil stepmother. However, a visit from her fairy godmother gives Cinderella the chance to live one night as a princess with the chance to make all her dreams come true.
Mr. Deeds (2002)
While fans of the original movie, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town, might not have been amused by this goofy take on the story, Adam Sandler's brand of humor does lend itself well to the rags-to-riches story.
Sandler plays Longfellow Deeds, a friendly small-town man who inherits a massive fortune and lucrative business from his uncle. As he moves to New York City, Deeds begins bringing his good-natured approach to the greed corporate world.
The Pursuit Of Happyness (2006)
Loosely based on a true story, The Pursuit of Happyness gives Will Smith one of the best acting roles of his career. Though Smith might not seem like the obvious choice for an underdog story, he shines as a struggling salesman attempting to raise his son while pursuing a professional career.
The movie has some harrowing and emotional moments, like when Smith is forced to sleep in a public bathroom with his young son. But his determination, his intelligence, and his work ethic to become a success makes his eventual achievement so rewarding.
My Fair Lady (1964)
My Fair Lady is another very familiar tale told in a way that elevates it in comparison to the other versions. This classic musical follows a snobbish professor who takes a wager to transform a working-class girl into a high-society woman.
While the movie feels somewhat dated now, it's hard not to get wrapped up in the journey the charming Eliza Doolittle takes. The romance story is also very compelling and the musical numbers are among the most iconic of all time.
Scarface (1983)
Not all rags-to-riches stories are triumphant stories, as evidenced by Brian De Palma's crime epic Scarface. Al Pacino plays a Cuban immigrant named Tony Montana who comes to the United States with nothing, but is determined to make himself into a success by any means.
He gradually begins rising within Miami's drug world until he becomes the most powerful crime figure in the city. This is a fascinating dark take on this type of story, as Tony's rise to power leads to a life of destructive excess and the death of everyone close to him.
Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
The Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire is a unique story in which a very unassuming protagonist has his journey to great fortune in front of the entire world. Jamal is a young man from the slums of Mumbai who becomes a contestant on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?
Much to everyone's surprise, he begins winning on the televised event as he looks back on his life and what he has learned. It is a touching and exciting story about how one's life experiences can make for valuable learning experiences too.
Citizen Kane (1946)
Considered by many to be the greatest movie of all time, Citizen Kane tells the life story of a business tycoon named Charles Foster Kane. Beginning with his death and his mysterious final words, the movie examines his journey from being plucked out of poverty to becoming one of the most important figures in America.
Unlike many of the movies on this list, Citizen Kane is not an upbeat success story. Its infamous ending hints at the idea of how someone who comes from nothing to have everything might lose something important along the way.
Rocky (1976)
Rags-to-riches stories have always been underdog stories, and there is no better underdog story in the history of cinema than Rocky. Sylvester Stallone created his breakout role in the movie he wrote about an amateur boxer who is given a shot to go the distance.
Stallone's reserved performance really makes this first movie such an unforgettable tale. Rocky is not someone chasing a dream and is rather self-conscious about being thrust into this situation. But his heart and grit make him an inspiring hero to cheer for.