Have you just seen “Oppenheimer” and now find yourself craving more history told the Hollywood way? Whether it’s the finely tailored historical biopics of complex figures or a glimpse into a rapidly changing future, cinema has a lot to offer.
It’s no secret that Hollywood has a soft spot for biopics. Just flip through the Oscar ceremonies of the past two decades, and you’ll see why. But who can blame us? We all love getting a dose of history without having to crack open a textbook.
With “Oppenheimer” taking the cinemas by storm, we thought it would be the perfect time to put together a list of other films based on true stories. From engaging period pieces to gripping modern tales, these films provide a thrilling way to learn about the past and present.
So grab some popcorn and settle in; these historical biopics are sure to keep you glued to the screen, eager for more. Whether you’re a history buff or just in the mood for an engaging story, there’s something on this list for everyone.
10 Historical Biopic Movies You Must See
1. The First Man on the Moon (2018)
Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon, presents a challenging subject for a movie. His deeply private, quiet, and reserved nature doesn’t necessarily translate to a dynamic film character.
However, Ryan Gosling brings a thoughtful, introspective quality to his portrayal of Armstrong in “First Man.” He captures the essence of Armstrong as the quiet workhorse amid the frenzy of the space race. Damien Chazelle, known for his theatrical style, directs the film, reuniting with Gosling after their collaboration on “La La Land.” Surprisingly, Chazelle manages to infuse the exploration of the unknown with a musical, rhythmic quality that’s both engaging and fitting.
The moon landing, one of history’s most iconic moments, could easily overwhelm any filmmaker. But Chazelle handles it with such impact and authenticity that you almost feel like you’re witnessing the event for the very first time. It’s a fresh take on a well-known story, breathing life into the character of a man who, while perhaps remote and inscrutable, accomplished something truly extraordinary.
2. Social Network (2010)
Even recent events can be considered historical, particularly when they relate to the birth of social media, an invention that seems to have accelerated the pace of life itself.
Most people are familiar with “The Social Network,” David Fincher and Aaron Sorkin’s film about the creation of Facebook. Starring Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, and Justin Timberlake, the movie launched the actors into fame for their portrayals of young tech whizzes turned millionaires.
While “The Social Network” has earned its place as the quintessential movie about the internet age, what stands out is that it continues to be a compelling film. This is true even as social media platforms face challenges and scrutiny, largely due to the arrogance often associated with Silicon Valley’s culture – a theme that is central to the film itself.
3.Hidden Figures (2016)
Some biopics carve out a person’s fame or notoriety, while others shed light on stories that might have otherwise been lost in the annals of history. “Hidden Figures” definitely falls into the latter category, focusing on the lives of three African-American female mathematicians who played crucial roles in sending John Glenn into space.
The imagery of the space race often conjures pictures of men in horn-rimmed glasses, wearing white shirts with rolled-up sleeves, working tirelessly in mission control. But “Hidden Figures,” starring Taraji P. Henson, Janelle Monae, and Octavia Spencer, challenges that perception and reminds us that history isn’t always as it seems in textbooks. The film is not only enlightening but also deeply moving, capturing the unsung contributions of these brilliant women.
4. Capote (2005)
Philip Seymour Hoffman’s loss is something the world will never truly get over. His exceptional talent for enhancing every role he played is widely celebrated, and his work in the film “Capote” is no exception. Although the film was already well-crafted, Hoffman’s portrayal earned him an Oscar for his brilliant performance.
“Capote” explores the life of the eccentric novelist, Truman Capote, known for his works like “In Cold Blood” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” It’s a film that melds history with a narrative that feels stranger than fiction. The story focuses on Capote’s journey to Kansas to write “In Cold Blood,” his final novel. The book cemented him as a significant American novelist, delving into a series of murders and an unlikely friendship that Capote develops with the main suspect. The film skillfully weaves these elements together, offering a compelling glimpse into a complex mind and a fascinating period in American literary history.
5. The Wolf of Wall Street (2014)
The Wolf of Wall Street,” directed by the renowned Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, takes us into the world of Jordan Belfort, one of the most notorious business figures of recent times.
The film explores Belfort’s rise after the Wall Street crash, where he discovers ways to manipulate the system to reach the top, often without regard for those he tramples along the way. But his empire of excess and inflated ego eventually crumbles as the law catches up with him.
DiCaprio’s performance as Belfort is exceptional, capturing the character’s charisma and ruthlessness with striking authenticity. Alongside him, Margot Robbie shines as his wife, Naomi Lapaglia. Her portrayal adds a spark of energy to the film, making her character both engaging and entertaining. Together, their performances are just a couple of the many reasons to watch this captivating story unfold.
6. A Beautiful Mind (2001)
John Nash might not be a name recognized by everyone, but this Nobel Prize-winning mathematician has made a significant contribution to our understanding of game theory, a field that studies the mathematical patterns of logical interactions.
The film “A Beautiful Mind,” directed by the skilled Ron Howard, brings Nash’s story to life. Russell Crowe portrays Nash, delivering an Oscar-nominated performance, though he didn’t win the award, unlike his talented co-star Jennifer Connelly. The movie initially follows Nash’s quest to find patterns and codes in magazines to intercept Soviet messages, but the story takes a turn when he is diagnosed with schizophrenia, and it becomes apparent that things are not what they seem.
With Howard’s masterful direction and a strong emotional pull, “A Beautiful Mind” provides an insightful look into the life and mind of a brilliant but troubled mathematician. Howard’s ability to craft sentimental and moving stories shines through, making the film a memorable and touching experience.
7. Malcolm X (1992)
Malcolm X remains a complex and often controversial figure in American history. Known for his strong opinions and religious beliefs, he played a crucial role in the civil rights movement for the black community in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s.
The biopic “Malcolm X,” directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington, takes an artistic and theatrical approach to its subject. Instead of simply retracing historical facts, the film creatively blends stylized filmmaking with a deep understanding of the man at its core. Through Lee’s lens, the movie isn’t just a recounting of history but a revitalization of Malcolm X’s legacy, seeking to re-educate a 1990s audience that might have lost touch with what he truly represented.
Denzel Washington’s compelling portrayal and Spike Lee’s unique storytelling combine to offer a fresh perspective on an influential figure, making “Malcolm X” more than just a historical film but a cultural commentary.
8. The Enigma Code (2014)
While Oppenheimer was engrossed in developing the atomic bomb in New Mexico during World War II, a parallel story was unfolding in England. There, a team of codebreakers was diligently working to decipher German messages that could tip the balance of the war.
Among these codebreakers was Alan Turing, a brilliant cryptanalyst whose tragic hormonal treatment after his homosexuality was revealed remains a dark chapter in history. Turing was instrumental in cracking the Enigma code, the complex system the Nazis used to encrypt their communications. The film “The Imitation Game” follows Turing and his team at Bletchley Park as they race against time to crack the code and help the Allies win the war.
Though the film fits the mold of a classic British war movie, it’s set apart by the exceptional performances of its cast. Benedict Cumberbatch’s nuanced portrayal of Turing, supported by talents like Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode, and Rory Kinnear, adds a layer of depth and quality to the film, elevating it beyond the traditional war drama. It’s a touching and thrilling exploration of a pivotal moment in history, as well as a tribute to a remarkable individual whose contributions extended far beyond the battlefield.
9. Milk: One Man, One Revolution, One Hope (2008)
“Milk” is a compelling biopic that earned Sean Penn an Oscar for his portrayal of the groundbreaking Harvey Milk, the first openly gay man elected to public office in California.
Directed by Gus Van Sant and penned by Dustin Lance Black, the film explores Milk’s early life, his ascendancy in San Francisco politics, and his passionate campaign for gay inclusion and community empowerment. Tragically, his life and career were cut short when he was murdered by a colleague.
Though the structure of “Milk” might be considered straightforward compared to other biopics, it doesn’t diminish the impact of the story. There’s an inherent power in Milk’s tale that resonates deeply, and the absence of overly stylized characterizations adds to the authenticity of the narrative. The film serves as a poignant reminder of Milk’s legacy, a story that remains relevant and inspiring to this day.
10. JFK (1991)
Since hitting theaters, the film “Oppenheimer” has been frequently compared to Oliver Stone’s 1991 film “JFK.” Both movies have the unique ability to transform what might seem like dry and tedious courtroom dialogue into riveting cinematic experiences.
“Oppenheimer,” featuring Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr., focuses on the protection of careers within the development of the atomic bomb. In contrast, “JFK” revolves around the investigation of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.
Boasting a star-studded cast that includes Kevin Costner, Kevin Bacon, Tommy Lee Jones, and Gary Oldman (who also appears in “Oppenheimer”), “JFK” takes some liberties with the story. It tends toward sensationalism and conspiracy theories rather than a sober reflection of the truth. Despite this, and its substantial three-hour runtime, the film remains engaging, and the hours fly by.
Both films showcase the ability to bring historical and complex legal subjects to life on the big screen, captivating audiences with intense drama and storytelling.
