Undoubtedly, nothing captures more aptly the relationship between fact and fiction than this quote. No matter how creative you are, how vast your imagination, there are things we still cannot conjure but which, reality gives us nonchalantly. Of course, some of these like movies based on true stories are inspiring and moving, tales that leave us in awe and proud of human capabilities. While, others leave us in distaste over human cruelty that cannot even be imagined even in the worse of horror stories. Therefore, here’s an article lists some such tales of the best movies based on true stories which instantly capture your attention. So, If you’ve been looking for good movies to watch, check these out today!
“What the Imagination can’t conjure, Reality delivers with a Shrug.”
Dalton Trumbo
Complete List of Movies Based on True Stories
Yes, let’s Check it Out!
Biographical Movies Based on Real Stories to Inspire you in these Dark Times
Truly, biographies make the most entertaining as well as educating films to watch. That’s why, these movies are an ideal way to deal with your stubborn child who refuses to behave or focus on studies.
1. Rebel in the Rye (2017)
Directed by: Danny Strong
Starring: Nicho8 Should, Kevin Spacey, Zoey Deutch
Ratings: 6.2/10 on IMDB, 29% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: Based on the life of the renowned and reclusive author, J.D Salinger, this biopic captures the events leading to the publication of this most famous novel Catcher in the Rye. Besides, the film is set during World War II and revolved around the youth and romantic life of Salinger.
What the Reviews Say: In short, extremely intelligent and complex characters make the film interesting to see. Plus, it gets a solid 9 on the authenticity scale from the critics.
2. Becoming Jane (2007)
Directed by: Julian Jarrold
Starring: Anne Hathaway, James McAvoy
Ratings: 7/10 on IMDB, 58% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: Similarly, another biopic of a famous author, this movie centers around a twenty year old Jane Austen and her romance with Thomas Langlois Lefroy, a young Irishman of middle class background. Again, it tells the story of the early life of our beloved and witty Jane Austen.
What the Reviews Say: Truly, a good blend of fact with fiction. This film, although not entirely accurate still gives us a nice glimpse into the life of Austen. Moreover, the touching tale of Real Love and the heart break surrounding it makes it a Must-Watch for fans of Romantic movies.
3. The Miracle Worker (1962)
Directed by: Arthur Penn
Starring: Patty Duke, Anne Bancroft
Ratings: 8.1/10 on IMDB, 96% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: Based on the autobiography of Helen Keller, a blind and deaf author in the 20th century known for her political activism and disability rights support. To summarize, the film tells the struggle of Anne Sullivan, Keller’s instructor and lifelong companion, to teach a young Helen how to communicate without the gift of sight and hearing.
What the Reviews Say: No doubt, anyone who’s read the “The Story of My Life” by Helen Keller knows the great struggle this young girl has to face in communication. However, despite her disability she became one of the most prominent figure in American History. Hence, This inspiring film, with outstanding story, is great for anyone who’s been feeling under the weather due to the recent events of Covid-19 lockdown.
Read Also: Books Based on True Stories that Should be on Your Reading List this Summer!
4. The King’s Speech (2010)
Directed by: Tom Hooper
Starring: Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter
Ratings: 8/10 on IMDB, 94% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: Likewise, another film set in World War II, Here, the film centers around King George VI as he tries to overcome his speech impediment problem with the help of Lionel Logue, a speech therapist. Again, the movie perfectly captures the struggle of stammering king trying to become a worthy leader who can lead his country through the war.
What the Reviews Say: Amazingly, strong acting on part of Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush is what makes this movie great. Not to mention, it’s pretty accurate as far as the history is concerned.
War/Military Movies Based on Real Life Events to Refresh your Knowledge of History
Want a thriller movie but still educational? Here, we have some great thriller war movies that feature real life events.
5. The Monuments Men (2014)
Directed by: George Clooney
Starring: George Clooney, Matt Damon, Mill Murray, Cate Blanchett
Ratings: 6.1/10 on IMDB, 30% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: In summary, an odd WWII platoon, consisting of museum directors, curators and art historians, risk their lives to rescue art masterpieces and paintings from the hands of Nazi thieves in order to save centuries of culture and history.
What the Reviews Say: Of course, this lively and entertaining movie is extremely underrated and deserves more recognition. However, It’s a must watch for a light-hearted evening that also provokes you to reflect on thousands of years of culture that has lead to this moment in time.
6. The Imitation Game (2014)
Directed by: Morten Tyldum
Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Mathew Goode
Ratings: 8/10 on IMDB, 89% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: In fact, the film revolving around Alan Turing, a British mathematician who made several breakthroughs in computing and technology. Again, the story is based on the events of WWII as he builds a machine to decipher the German Enigma Code.
What the Reviews Say: A great spy thriller film with Sci-fi aspects that are still true. Additionally, strong acting from famous stars like Benedict Cumberbatch and Kiera Knightley portraying even stronger characters makes the movie an amazing experience. A one hell of a war related movies based on true stories to watch!
Sports Movies Inspired by Real Sportsmen to Check out this Weekend
Undoubtedly, there’s no denying that sports is one of the best healthy habits for kids. But, rarely do kids these days like to participate in them willing. That’s why, here are a few sports/football movies to show your children how awesome sports can be and get them interested!
7. Concussion (2015)
Directed by: Peter Landesman
Starring: Will Smith, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Alec Baldwin
Ratings: 7.2/10 on IMDB, 59% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: Yes, Based on “Game Brain” by Jeanne Laskas, this movie tells the story of Dr. Bennet Omalu, an accomplished pathologist, as he tries of raise public awareness regarding a head trauma common in football players. Consequently, his endeavors lead to an epic clash with N.F.L that marked headlines for months.
What the Reviews Say: Gripping and realistic, this film draws you in with its strong acting and thought provocativeness. No wonder, it is one of the most fantastic movies based on true stories.
8. Rudy (1993)
Directed by: David Anspaugh
Starring: Sean Astin, Jon Favreau, Ned Beatty
Ratings: 7.5/10 on IMDB, 78% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: To cut it short, it’s the story of Rudy Ruettiger, the only football player to record a sack in college football. He was always discouraged to play football because of his short height. However, he overcame all odds and fulfilled his dream to play for University of Notre Dame.
What the Reviews Say: It’s an inspiring film and always a people pleaser. For example, the crowd enchanting scene as he records a sack and be carried off the ground leaves the audience giddy and cheerful. Not to mention the important life lesson this film teaches all the young students out there – to always follow your dreams!
9. Ali (2001)
Directed by: Michael Mann
Starring: Will Smith, Jamie Foxy, Jada Pinketh Smith
Ratings: 6.8/10 on IMDB, 68% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: As a matter of fact, its story of Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali, a young boxer who reaches overnight fame by winning his debut championship. Charmingly, this biopic captures his many achievements and controversies like converting to Islam and refusing to fight in Vietnam war.
What the Reviews Say: Yes, it’s Will Smith’s portrayal of the loud, brash, witty, and captivating Ali makes the movie memorable.
Films Based on Science and Technology that’ll Leave You in Awe
Truly, new technology and invention is always exciting. So, check out these cool science and technology films to refresh your faith in human capabilities. (We can get through this pandemic!)
10. The Theory of Everything (2014)
Directed by: James Marsh
Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones
Ratings: 7.7/10 on IMDB, 80% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: In summary, it’s the life of Stephen Hawking as a young student of astrophysics in University of Cambridge. He strives to derive a perfect theory despite his motor neuron disease with only two years to live.
What the Reviews Say: Of course, The strong acting of Eddie Redmayne takes us to the intelligent and enchanting world of Hawking. Accordingly, this emotional film will not only leave you in tears but also in awe of the universe we occupy.
11. The Social Network (2010)
Directed by: David Fincher
Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, Justin Timberlake
Ratings: 7.7/10 on IMDB, 96% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: Revolving around Mark Zuckerberg as he creates the first social networking site, Facebook shortly, it tells the story of instant popularity of this innovative way of communication. And, how it lead to a new generation and lawsuits regarding online security.
What the Reviews Say: The Oscar-Winning film is Intense, realistic and cleverly captures the genius of Zuckerberg.
Medical Drama Movies Based on True Stories to Watch During COVID-19 Quarantine
As a matter of fact, medical Drama is one of the most popular genres of film. Therefore, here are some heart-touching medical films Based on true stories that you should see.
12. Patch Adams (1998)
Directed by: Tom Shadyac
Starring: Robin Williams, Monica Potter
Ratings: 6.8/10 on IMDB, 22% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: This comedy drama tells the story of Hunter Adams, a doctor who uses humor to treat his patients. Besides, the opposition from the medical community vs. the support from the patients and nurses is the main theme of this movie.
What the Reviews Say: A heart-warming tale! Funny and emotional. Also, it brings to light the importance and physiological effects of humor. Yes, that’s our way of telling you to take a break and have a good laugh in these trying times!
13. Philadelphia (1993)
Directed by: Jonathan Demme
Starring: Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington
Ratings: 7.7/10 on IMDB, 80% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: To summarize, it’s a medical Drama about a young Philadelphia lawyer suing his company over wrongful dismissal because he has AIDS. Moreover, this was the first mainstream movie ever to acknowledge homosexuality, AIDS/HIV and homophobia.
What the Reviews Say: Truly, a tear-jerking and thought-provoking film about discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Must-Watch Lifetime Movies Based on real life to See this Spring
Lifetime is a cable network channel known for making the most horrifying, disturbing and scandalous movies based on true stories. Keep in mind, none of these films are appropriate to watch with children
Synopsis: This sweet romance film presents the nine year courtship period of beloved Duke and Duchess of CambridgeNone of these films are appropriate to watch with children.
14. The Lover in the Attic (2018)
Directed by: Melora Walters
Starring: Molly Burnett, Kevin Fonteyne, David Fierro
Ratings: 5.4/10 on IMDB, 67% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: A married woman hides her lover in the attic for over a decade. Accordingly, it’s the real life sensational story that graced the headlines in the ’20s.
What the Reviews Say: Undoubtedly, the mostScandalous and bizarre story that seems more fiction than reality!
15. William and Kate: The Movie (2011)
Directed by: Mark Rosman
Starring: Camilla Luddington, Nico Everse-Swindell
Ratings: 5/10 on IMDB, 39% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: Indeed, this sweet romance film presents the nine year courtship period of beloved Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Hence, it is full of family pressure, scrutiny from media and the fairytale aspect of a commoner becoming royalty.
What the Reviews Say: Some say it’s ridiculous and unrealistic. But still, it grabs the heart-pounding romance every one of us long for
Thriller Films Based on Real Life Kidnappings that are not for the Faint of Heart
Finally, here’s a list of thriller films based on real events. Moreover, a great number of kidnapping movies are produced by Lifetime, these are no different. Although, triggering and disturbing, these films still carry an uplifting aspect to them. Because, we see the victims get rescued and returned to a good life.
16. Taken in Broad Daylight (2009)
Directed by: Gary Yates
Starring: Sara Canning, James Van Der Beck, LeVar Burton
Ratings: 5.6/10 on IMDB, 34% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: In short, a teenager in Nebraska, Anne Sluti, gets kidnapped by Anthony Steven Wright in 2001. Yes, it’s a chilling real-life story of daytime kidnapping of a girl who uses her wits to get herself rescued.
What the Reviews Say: Disturbing and Triggering. Also, Not for the faint of heart. But an inspirational story of a strong girl nonetheless. In fact, a great example of movies based on true stories.
17. I Am Elizabeth Smart (2017)
Directed by: Sarah Walker
Starring: Alana Boden, Skeet Ulrich, Deirdre Lovejoy and Elizabeth Smart
Ratings: 6.4/10 on IMDB, 62% on Rotten Tomatoes
Synopsis: In 2002, Brain Mitchell abducts a 14-year old Elizabeth Smart from her own bedroom in Salt Lake City house. She’s held captive for 9 months and suffers brutality until she’s finally rescued.
What the Reviews Say: A triggering story of sexual abuse, torture and horror that’s real and a common part of our lives. Additionally, the film stars Smart herself as a narrator as we see her redefine victimhood, reclaim herself and emerge as a strong woman.
The Real Impact of Movies Based on True Stories
To conclude, is great but reality is not less entertaining either. Thats why, this article lists great movies ranging over diverse genres that you should check out this spring break. After all, watching movies and reading books is one of the best hobbies. Or you can do both at the same time!
Check out: Movies Based on Books to Read During Quarantine
