Films based on real events always arouse immediate curiosity, as they transform historical events into tangible stories on screen. In addition to entertaining, these works function as windows into the past, bringing the audience closer to important events by mixing information and emotion in equal doses. The choice of cast also adds an extra charm in the task of making the details more real!
In this selection, we have gathered 10 titles with high IMDb ratings that prove how dramas, biographies and thrillers can teach, impact and give you goosebumps at the same time. Get ready to remember famous trials, historical feats and stories of overcoming that resulted in great performances and many awards. Keep reading and see our top 10 films based on real events that captivated audiences around the world!
Hustlers (2019)
“Hustlers” is one of the films based on real events that attracted the most attention in 2019. Starring Jennifer Lopez and Constance Wu, the crime drama follows the rise of two dancers who, after the 2008 crisis, create a bold plan to overcome the decline in clientele.
The film was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award and received critical acclaim, with Lopez's performance being particularly noteworthy. On IMDb, the film has a rating of 6.3. Mixing tension and social criticism, it is available to watch on Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max.
Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2019)
Among the films based on real events that surprised the public, “Can You Ever Forgive Me?” portrays the ingenuity of Lee Israel, a journalist on the verge of bankruptcy who discovers that he can profit by falsifying correspondence from deceased celebrities. The narrative mixes dark humor and drama as it follows his tricks, without revealing the consequences that await those who try to prolong the scam.
The comedy-drama received three Oscar nominations, including Best Actress for Melissa McCarthy and Best Supporting Actor for Richard E. Grant, as well as applause at the BAFTAs. With a 7.1 rating on IMDb, the film continues to win over those looking for stories of wit and redemption, and can be seen exclusively on Disney+.
The Conjuring (2013)
Among the films based on real events, “The Conjuring” recreates the visit of investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren to a farm in Harrisville. While unexplained phenomena disturb a large family, the couple realizes that the force haunting the place is older than they imagined.
The narrative balances scares, a 1970s atmosphere and questions of faith, while keeping its climax a secret. Without giving away any twists, the horror film relies on documented accounts to keep the viewer breathless. Recognized by critics, the film won the Empire Award for Best Horror and the Saturn Award for Best Horror Film.
The solid 7.5 rating on IMDb confirms its status as a reference in the supernatural horror genre. You can watch this chilling experience on Max and Amazon Prime. Get ready to have your heart racing as you remember this incredible work among horror films based on real events!
The Theory of Everything (2014)
Featured among Films based on true events, “The Theory of Everything” combines biographical drama and romance. The plot follows the young genius Stephen Hawking at Cambridge University, where he meets Jane Wilde, and a resilient love emerges that faces, without revealing details, the advance of a rare motor disease. The result is an inspiring portrait of the brilliant mind that defied scientific and personal limits.
Nominated for five Oscars in 2015, the film earned Eddie Redmayne the Best Actor statuette, as well as wins at the BAFTA and the Golden Globes; Felicity Jones was also nominated for Best Actress. On IMDb, it boasts a solid rating of 7.7, consolidating itself as a sure choice for moviegoers. You can watch it on Netflix, Telecine Play and Globoplay.
Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is one of the films based on real events that celebrate the trajectory of the iconic Queen. The biographical musical follows the formation of the band and the personal challenges of Freddie Mercury, exploring his talent and the ups and downs of fame, without revealing sensitive details of his life. The narrative is moving as it shows how the group faced excesses and remained united.
Awarded four Oscars, including Best Actor for Rami Malek, the film won over audiences and critics alike. With a rating of 7.9 on IMDb, it is a reference for fans of music and real stories of overcoming adversity. Available on Disney+, “Bohemian Rhapsody” combines drama and rock in an unforgettable experience. It is a sure choice for those who enjoy productions inspired by real and remarkable lives.
Spotlight (2015)
Among the films based on real events, “Spotlight” stands out for telling the intense investigation of journalists who exposed an abuse scandal in the Catholic Church in Boston. The drama follows the team's efforts to reveal hidden truths, maintaining suspense without revealing the outcome of the investigation. The narrative is a dive into the courageous journalism that changed public perception about a sensitive topic.
Awarded with two Oscars, including Best Picture, “Spotlight” also won a Golden Globe and a high approval rating on IMDb, with a score of 8.1. Available on Claro Video and Globoplay, it is an essential work for those who value real and impactful stories. The film combines intense drama and journalistic investigation, and is a reference among productions based on true events. An invitation to reflect on the power of the press in defending the truth.
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Among the films based on real events, “A Beautiful Mind” reveals the fascinating journey of mathematical John Nash. The biographical drama follows his revolutionary talent and his internal struggle with a reality-warping illness.
Without anticipating any twists and turns, the film shows how genius and fragility can walk side by side. Each scene invites the audience to look beyond the numbers and delve into the mind of a genius. Winner of four Oscars in 2002, including Best Picture and Adapted Screenplay, and nominated in four other categories, it established itself during the awards season.
On IMDb, it has a rating of 8.2, reaffirming its prestige among critics and audiences. Classified as a biographical drama, it mixes emotion, psychological suspense and academic inspiration. It is currently not available for streaming; it is worth keeping an eye out for re-releases or using physical media to experience this unforgettable story.
The Fall! Hitler's Last Hours (2004)
Among the films based on real events, “Downfall! Hitler’s Last Hours” reconstructs with documentary rigor the final days in the Berlin bunker. The historical drama shows the tension as the Third Reich collapsed under the Soviet advance, guided by the reports of secretary Traudl Junge. Without revealing the outcome, the script delves into the moral dilemmas of the Nazi high command in a claustrophobic stage of collapse.
Bruno Ganz shines by exposing the human fragility behind the decisions that changed the course of history. Nominated for the Oscar for Best International Feature Film in 2005 and winner of the European Film Award for Best Actor, the film is among the most acclaimed war dramas. Its 8.2 rating on IMDb confirms the public's recognition of the impactful narrative and historical accuracy.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Among the films based on real events, “The Wolf of Wall Street” transforms Jordan Belfort’s memoirs into an electrifying comedy-drama. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film shows the rise and fall of an ambitious broker who becomes rich through illegal schemes in the 1980s, without revealing details of the ending.
Nominated for five Oscars and winner of the Golden Globe for Best Actor for Leonardo DiCaprio, the film won over critics and audiences, with an IMDb rating of 8.2. With plenty of sarcasm and a fast pace, it is a mix of exaggeration, social criticism and pure entertainment. Available on Amazon Prime Video.
Untouchables (2011)
Among the films based on real events that are moving from beginning to end, “The Intouchables” stands out for portraying the unexpected bond between a French aristocrat and his caretaker, who comes from the outskirts of the city. The film mixes lightness, humor and sensitivity when dealing with themes such as inclusion, friendship and overcoming obstacles.
With an IMDb rating of 8.5, the film has garnered worldwide acclaim and received several award nominations, including the César Award for Best Film. This French biographical drama is a true lesson in empathy and respect for differences. It is currently not available on streaming platforms.
Conclusion
Films based on true events have the power to move, inspire and even shock audiences by telling stories that really happened. From investigative journalism to biographical dramas and award-winning musicals, each production brings us closer to real-life characters and events with intensity and authenticity.
Now we want to know: which of these films had the biggest impact on you? Tell us in the comments! And if you like movies, take the opportunity to check it out our special article on the best Bruce Willis movies. Oh, and don't miss the video below with an unmissable selection of films based on real events!
