- Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
- The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
- The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
- The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
- The Finest Hours (2016)
- The Theory of Everything (2014)
- The Shape of Water (2017)
- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (2017)
- The Professor and the Madman (2019)
- The Elephant Man (1980)
Are you a fan of both romance and science? Then this collection of films is just for you! Here, we've gathered ten melodramas where the protagonists are biologists, blending the passion for discovery with the passion of love. These films not only offer a heartwarming narrative but also provide a glimpse into the fascinating world of biology, making them a unique treat for those who appreciate both genres.

Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Description: Based on the true story of Dian Fossey, this film explores her dedication to gorilla conservation and her complex personal life, highlighting the intertwining of love for nature and human relationships.
Fact: Sigourney Weaver was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Dian Fossey.


The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: This film, while more of an adventure, features a biologist character who helps solve the mystery of man-eating lions, showcasing the intersection of science and survival.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Tsavo maneaters in Kenya.


The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: While not directly about biology, Walter Mitty's adventures include a biologist's quest to find a rare snow leopard, blending adventure, romance, and the beauty of nature.
Fact: The film was inspired by a short story by James Thurber published in


The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Description: This film, though not about biology per se, explores the life of Jean-Dominique Bauby, who, after a stroke, communicates through blinking. His story touches on themes of human resilience and the beauty of life, akin to the spirit of scientific discovery.
Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards.


The Finest Hours (2016)
Description: This film, while primarily a rescue drama, includes a biologist character whose scientific knowledge aids in the rescue operation, showcasing the importance of biology in real-world scenarios.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the 1952 SS Pendleton rescue.


The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: This film tells the love story of physicist Stephen Hawking and his wife Jane, focusing on their relationship amidst his groundbreaking work in cosmology. While not strictly about biology, the film captures the essence of scientific passion and personal life.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking.


The Shape of Water (2017)
Description: This fantasy drama features a mute janitor who falls in love with an amphibious creature, blending themes of love, acceptance, and the beauty of the unknown, akin to biological exploration.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (2017)
Description: This film explores the ethical and scientific implications of the HeLa cell line, derived from Henrietta Lacks, and the impact on her family, blending science with personal drama.
Fact: Oprah Winfrey stars as Deborah Lacks, Henrietta's daughter.


The Professor and the Madman (2019)
Description: While centered on lexicography, the film includes elements of biology through the character of Dr. William Chester Minor, whose contributions to the Oxford English Dictionary are intertwined with his personal struggles.
Fact: The film was based on the book by Simon Winchester.


The Elephant Man (1980)
Description: While focusing on medicine rather than biology, this film delves into the life of Joseph Merrick, showcasing the compassion and scientific curiosity of Dr. Frederick Treves.
Fact: John Hurt's portrayal of Merrick was critically acclaimed, earning him a BAFTA nomination.
