Real-life stories make some of the best movies, offering a peek into extraordinary lives and events. Here are eight captivating films based on true stories and real events.Â
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The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film portrays the tumultuous life of stockbroker Jordan Belfort, who became infamous on Wall Street for his fraudulent activities and excesses. It dives deep into his rise to wealth and the subsequent downfall due to his unethical practices.
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12 Years a Slave (2013)
Under Steve McQueen’s direction, this intense film is based on Solomon Northup’s autobiography. It recounts Northup’s kidnapping and brutal enslavement, offering a stark and poignant depiction of slavery in 19th-century America.
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The Social Network (2010)
Directed by David Fincher, this film chronicles the inception of Facebook by Mark Zuckerberg. It delves into the subsequent legal disputes and provides a riveting examination of ambition, innovation, and the intricate dynamics of friendship and business.
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The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Directed by Gabriele Muccino, this movie is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, who rose from homelessness to become a successful stockbroker. The film emphasises themes of perseverance, hope, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.
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A Beautiful Mind (2001)
This biographical drama, directed by Ron Howard, follows the life of mathematician John Nash. It highlights his battle with schizophrenia while showcasing his significant contributions to game theory, blending personal struggle with intellectual triumph.
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Apollo 13 (1995)
Directed by Ron Howard, this film recounts the perilous journey of the Apollo 13 mission. It details the astronauts’ desperate efforts to return safely to Earth following a catastrophic onboard explosion, showcasing human ingenuity and resilience.
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Moneyball (2011)
Directed by Bennett Miller, this film is based on a non-fiction book about the Oakland Athletics baseball team. It focuses on the team’s use of advanced sabermetric techniques to assemble a competitive roster on a limited budget, revolutionising the sport.
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Schindler’s List (1993)
Directed by Steven Spielberg, this powerful film tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved over 1,100 Jewish workers from the Holocaust. It highlights his bravery and the resilience of the human spirit amidst the atrocities of Nazi-occupied Poland.
