"The Pursuit of Happyness" (2006)
* Elements of the Myth: This film portrays the struggles of Chris Gardner, a single father who faces immense adversity and ultimately achieves success through sheer determination and hard work. He embodies the "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" attitude associated with the Horatio Alger myth.
* Critique: The film also highlights the systemic inequalities and challenges faced by marginalized communities, suggesting that success is not always solely determined by individual effort. Chris Gardner's journey is made even more difficult by his race and socioeconomic background.
"The Social Network" (2010)
* Elements of the Myth: The film depicts the meteoric rise of Mark Zuckerberg, a young college student who built Facebook into a global phenomenon through his ingenuity and hard work.
* Critique: The film portrays Zuckerberg as a complex and flawed character, emphasizing the ethical compromises and personal costs associated with his success. It questions whether his achievement is purely based on merit, highlighting the role of privilege, opportunism, and luck.
"The Wolf of Wall Street" (2013)
* Elements of the Myth: The film depicts the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who built a lavish lifestyle through questionable means. It initially portrays his success as a result of hard work and ambition.
* Critique: The film ultimately exposes the dark underbelly of Belfort's success, revealing his greed, deceit, and ultimately his downfall. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the potentially destructive consequences of chasing wealth at all costs.
"Hidden Figures" (2016)
* Elements of the Myth: The film highlights the contributions of three brilliant African-American women mathematicians to NASA's early space program. Their intelligence, perseverance, and dedication led to their success.
* Critique: The film also highlights the systemic racism and sexism these women faced, showcasing how their achievements were often overlooked or minimized. It underscores the challenges and injustices experienced by marginalized groups in pursuing their dreams.
While recent movies may not fully embrace the traditional Horatio Alger myth, they often utilize its core elements – ambition, hard work, and overcoming obstacles – to explore contemporary themes of success, social mobility, and the complexities of the American dream.