Top 10 Films Based on True Stories

Description: This film tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over 1,000 Jewish refugees during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories. Its inclusion in this list is due to its poignant depiction of one man's moral awakening amidst one of history's darkest periods.

Fact: Steven Spielberg initially refused to direct the film, feeling he was not ready to tackle such a heavy subject. The film was shot in black and white to give it a documentary feel.

Description: Based on the autobiography of Władysław Szpilman, this film depicts his survival in the Warsaw Ghetto during WWII. It's a profound look at the human spirit's resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Fact: Adrien Brody lost significant weight for the role and learned to play the piano. He also spent time with Szpilman before his death to understand his experiences better.

Description: This film portrays the heroic actions of Paul Rusesabagina during the Rwandan genocide, where he saved over a thousand Tutsi refugees by sheltering them in the hotel he managed. Its inclusion highlights the bravery of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.

Fact: The film was shot in South Africa due to safety concerns in Rwanda. Don Cheadle was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of Paul Rusesabagina.

Description: This film captures the true story of King George VI's struggle with a speech impediment and his relationship with his unorthodox speech therapist. It's included for its uplifting narrative about overcoming personal challenges and its historical significance.

Fact: The film's title was almost "The King's English." Colin Firth, who played King George VI, actually met with the real Lionel Logue's grandson to prepare for the role.

Description: This film explains the build-up to the 2008 financial crisis through the eyes of several key figures who predicted and profited from the market's collapse. It's included for its educational value and its unique storytelling approach.

Fact: The film uses celebrities like Margot Robbie and Selena Gomez to explain complex financial terms in a humorous way. The screenplay was adapted from Michael Lewis's non-fiction book.

Description: This film follows The Boston Globe's "Spotlight" team as they uncover the massive scandal of child molestation and cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese. It's included for its gripping journalism narrative and its impact on real-world events.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual Boston Globe newsroom. The real-life Spotlight team members were consultants on the film.

Description: Based on Solomon Northup's memoir, this film recounts his kidnapping and subsequent life as a slave in the pre-Civil War United States. It's a powerful testament to human endurance and the horrors of slavery, making it an essential watch.

Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to help the actors capture the emotional progression of their characters. Lupita Nyong'o won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role.

Description: This film tells the story of Alan Turing, the British mathematician who helped crack the Enigma code during WWII, and his personal struggles. It's a tribute to his genius and the tragic aspects of his life.

Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch learned to type with four fingers to accurately portray Turing's unique typing style. The film's title refers to the Turing Test, a measure of a machine's ability to exhibit intelligent behavior.

Description: This biographical drama focuses on the life of physicist Stephen Hawking, his relationship with his wife Jane, and his battle with motor neuron disease. It's included for its inspiring portrayal of resilience and love.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne, who played Hawking, met with him several times to prepare for the role. The film was shot in chronological order to reflect Hawking's physical deterioration.

Description: This film celebrates the contributions of three African-American women at NASA who were instrumental in the success of John Glenn's orbital mission. It's a story of overcoming racial and gender barriers in the 1960s.

Fact: The film was shot at Langley Research Center in Virginia, where the real events took place. The actresses met with the real-life women they portrayed.