His films like 'I, Daniel Blake' and 'Kes' expose the systemic struggles of working-class individuals trapped in poverty through intimate, naturalistic storytelling.

Films such as 'Do the Right Thing' and 'Clockers' unflinchingly chronicle urban poverty, racial inequality, and community tensions in inner-city America.

His landmark film 'City of God' portrays the brutal reality of life in Rio's favelas with visceral energy, capturing poverty, violence, and survival.