Biopics on Biologists: A Cinematic Journey

Description: While more of a horror film, it explores themes of genetic experimentation and the consequences of biological tampering, making it a unique entry in this list.

Fact: Jeff Goldblum's transformation into "Brundlefly" was done with practical effects, which won the film an Academy Award for Best Makeup.

Description: Based on the life of Dian Fossey, this film follows her work in Rwanda studying and protecting mountain gorillas, highlighting her dedication to wildlife conservation and her tragic end.

Fact: Sigourney Weaver was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Dian Fossey. The film was shot on location in Rwanda.

Description: This film, while more of a fantasy, touches on themes of biology through the story of a girl who discovers her family's connection to selkies, mythical creatures with biological ties to both land and sea.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Donegal, Ireland, and was based on the book "The Secret of Ron Mor Skerry" by Rosalie K. Fry.

Description: This film, while primarily an action-adventure, explores the biological behavior of man-eating lions in Africa, providing a backdrop for the story of the Tsavo maneaters.

Fact: The film was inspired by real events, and the lions' skulls are on display at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.

Description: This film, based on Jean-Dominique Bauby's memoir, examines the life of a man who, after a stroke, can only communicate by blinking one eye, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit and the biology of the brain.

Fact: The film was shot from the perspective of Bauby, with the camera often representing his limited field of vision.

Description: This biopic explores the life of Charles Darwin, particularly his struggle with faith and science while writing "On the Origin of Species." It provides insight into the personal and professional challenges faced by one of biology's most pivotal figures.

Fact: The film was directed by Jon Amiel, who also directed "The Core." It was adapted from the book "Annie's Box" by Randal Keynes, Darwin's great-great-grandson.

Description: While not directly about biology, this film explores the speech impediment of King George VI, delving into the psychological and physiological aspects of speech therapy.

Fact: Colin Firth won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of King George VI. The film also won Best Picture.

Description: This film delves into the life of Stephen Hawking, focusing on his relationship with his wife Jane and his groundbreaking work in theoretical physics, which includes significant contributions to our understanding of biology through his work on the universe's origins.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.

Description: This film tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge and became one of the most important tools in medicine, impacting biological research worldwide.

Fact: Oprah Winfrey stars as Henrietta's daughter, Deborah Lacks, and also served as an executive producer. The film was adapted from Rebecca Skloot's best-selling book.

Description: Although primarily a drama, this film touches on the biological aspects of human deformity through the story of Joseph Merrick, known as the Elephant Man, and his interactions with the medical community.

Fact: John Hurt's performance as Merrick earned him a BAFTA nomination. The film was directed by David Lynch.