Moving to a new place can be a life-altering experience, often filled with challenges, growth, and transformation. This curated list of biopic films delves into the lives of real people who made significant moves, whether it was across countries, cultures, or personal boundaries. Each film not only entertains but also offers a window into the emotional and physical journey of relocation, providing insights into resilience, adaptation, and the human spirit's quest for a better life.

The Terminal (2004)
Description: Viktor Navorski's unexpected stay at JFK Airport after his country undergoes a coup, showing the human side of immigration and bureaucracy.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years. Tom Hanks learned to speak Bulgarian for the role.


The Terminal (2004)
Description: Viktor Navorski's unexpected stay at JFK Airport after his country undergoes a coup, showing the human side of immigration and bureaucracy.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, who lived in Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years. Tom Hanks learned to speak Bulgarian for the role.


The Namesake (2006)
Description: This film explores the cultural and personal identity of Gogol Ganguli, born to Indian immigrants in New York, as he navigates his dual heritage.
Fact: The film was adapted from Jhumpa Lahiri's novel of the same name. It was shot in both New York and Kolkata to reflect the characters' journeys.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: Chris Gardner's story of moving from homelessness to success in San Francisco, showcasing the power of perseverance and the American Dream.
Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith played father and son in the film, adding a real-life touch to their on-screen relationship. The film was based on Gardner's autobiography.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: Chris Gardner's story of moving from homelessness to success in San Francisco, showcasing the power of perseverance and the American Dream.
Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden Smith played father and son in the film, adding a real-life touch to their on-screen relationship. The film was based on Gardner's autobiography.


The Immigrant (2013)
Description: Set in the early 20th century, this film follows Ewa Cybulska's journey from Poland to New York, highlighting the struggles of immigration and exploitation.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white to evoke the era's feel. Marion Cotillard learned Polish for her role.


The Immigrant (2013)
Description: Set in the early 20th century, this film follows Ewa Cybulska's journey from Poland to New York, highlighting the struggles of immigration and exploitation.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white to evoke the era's feel. Marion Cotillard learned Polish for her role.


Brooklyn (2015)
Description: This film captures the essence of moving from Ireland to New York in the 1950s, following Eilis Lacey's journey of self-discovery and adaptation to a new world.
Fact: Saoirse Ronan was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Eilis. The film was shot in both Ireland and New York to authentically portray the settings.


Brooklyn (2015)
Description: This film captures the essence of moving from Ireland to New York in the 1950s, following Eilis Lacey's journey of self-discovery and adaptation to a new world.
Fact: Saoirse Ronan was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Eilis. The film was shot in both Ireland and New York to authentically portray the settings.


The Lost City of Z (2016)
Description: Percy Fawcett's quest to find an ancient lost city in the Amazon, which involves moving from England to the unknown wilderness.
Fact: The film was shot in Colombia, representing the Amazon, and the cast and crew faced real jungle conditions. Charlie Hunnam lost significant weight for his role.
