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10 Must-Watch Biographical Movies That Bring Real-Life Stories to the Big Screen

Written by Ella Anderson & Likewise Pix | Sep 12, 2024 Embark on a captivating journey through cinema with these 10 powerful biographical movies that bring the compelling true-life stories of diverse individuals to the big screen. From the gritty underworld of the Mafia to the dazzling life of Elvis Presley, each of these films offers a window into the lives of extraordinary people.

1. GoodFellas (1990)

GoodFellas
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

"GoodFellas" presents the rise and fall of Henry Hill, a kid of Irish-Sicilian descent who ascends the ranks of a Mafia family under the mentorship of the shrewd gangster Jimmy Conway. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this gritty portrayal of organized crime is as entertaining as it is harrowing. With stellar performances and an unforgettable narrative, it remains a staple in the genre of crime films.

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2. Schindler's List (1993)

Schindler's List
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Steven Spielberg's "Schindler's List" tells the profoundly moving true story of Oskar Schindler, a businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives by employing them in his factory during WWII. With its stark black-and-white cinematography and unforgettable performances, this film is an essential portrait of courage and human decency amidst unimaginable horrors.

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3. Oppenheimer (2023)

Oppenheimer
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"Oppenheimer" explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant physicist crucial to the development of the atomic bomb during WWII. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film delves deep into Oppenheimer's scientific contributions and the moral dilemmas he faced. It's a compelling look at the man behind one of history's most significant and devastating inventions.

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4. The Pianist (2002)

The Pianist
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"The Pianist" tells the heartbreaking and inspiring story of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish Jew and brilliant pianist who survives the atrocities of the Nazi occupation in Warsaw. Directed by Roman Polanski, the film captures Szpilman's harrowing experiences and his unwavering spirit through Adrian Brody’s Oscar-winning performance. It’s a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

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5. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

The Pursuit of Happyness
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"The Pursuit of Happyness" follows the incredible journey of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who takes custody of his son as he begins a life-changing professional career. Will Smith's portrayal of Gardner is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, encapsulating the essence of perseverance and hope in the face of adversity.

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6. The King's Speech (2010)

The King's Speech
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"The King's Speech" tells the story of King George VI and his battle to overcome a speech impediment with the help of unconventional speech therapist Lionel Logue. Directed by Tom Hooper, the film is a testament to personal triumph and the power of friendship. Colin Firth's Oscar-winning performance as King George VI brings this inspiring story to life.

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7. Into the Wild (2007)

Into the Wild
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Based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, "Into the Wild" depicts his journey across America and into the Alaskan wilderness after giving up his savings to charity and abandoning his possessions. Directed by Sean Penn, the film explores themes of freedom, identity, and the raw beauty of nature. McCandless's story is a poignant cry for independence and self-discovery.

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8. The Imitation Game (2014)

The Imitation Game
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"The Imitation Game" chronicles the life of Alan Turing, the mathematical genius whose code-breaking work during WWII was pivotal in defeating Nazi Germany. Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Turing brings to light both his brilliance and the immense challenges he faced, including his prosecution for homosexuality. This gripping film underscores the heroism and tragedy of Turing’s life.

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9. Elvis (2022)

Elvis
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

The vibrant film "Elvis" traces the meteoric rise of Elvis Presley through the lens of his complex relationship with his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, this biographical drama captures the highs and lows of Elvis's career, offering a fresh perspective on the King of Rock 'n' Roll and the price of fame.

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10. tick, tick... BOOM! (2021)

tick, tick... BOOM!
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"tick, tick... BOOM!" dives into the life of Jonathan Larson, a promising theater composer navigating love, friendship, and the pressure to create something monumental before time runs out. Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and starring Andrew Garfield, this film is a musical and emotional journey, highlighting Larson's passion and the indelible mark he left on the world of theater.

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These ten biographical films each deliver powerful narratives that reveal intriguing facets of human perseverance, ingenuity, and transformation. They capture the essence of their subjects' lives and legacies, offering viewers not just entertainment but profound insights into the human condition. Dive into these cinematic masterpieces for an unforgettable exploration of real-life stories brought to life on the big screen.

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