This curated list delves into the chilling world of human experimentation through biopic films. These movies not only entertain but also educate viewers about the ethical boundaries of science, the resilience of the human spirit, and the dark chapters of history where science crossed moral lines. Each film in this collection provides a unique perspective on the consequences of human experimentation, offering both historical insights and compelling narratives.

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Description: This film tells the true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, who suffers a massive stroke and must communicate through blinking one eye, exploring themes of human resilience and the ethics of medical care.
Fact: The film was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Director.


The Stanford Prison Experiment (2015)
Description: This film recreates the infamous 1971 psychological study where college students played the roles of prisoners and guards, showing how quickly the situation escalated into abusive behavior.
Fact: The film was shot in the same building where the original experiment took place.


The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009)
Description: A comedic take on the U.S. military's exploration into psychic powers and non-lethal warfare, based on real declassified documents.
Fact: The film stars George Clooney, Ewan McGregor, Jeff Bridges, and Kevin Spacey.


Project Nim (2011)
Description: A documentary that follows the life of Nim Chimpsky, a chimpanzee raised as a human child in an attempt to teach him sign language, revealing the ethical issues surrounding animal experimentation.
Fact: The film includes interviews with many of the key figures involved in the project.


The Lobster (2015)
Description: Although not a direct biopic, this film satirizes societal norms and the lengths to which people will go to conform, including a hotel where single people must find a romantic partner or be turned into an animal of their choice.
Fact: The film won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.


Experimenter (2015)
Description: Focuses on Stanley Milgram's obedience experiments, exploring the psychological and ethical implications of his work.
Fact: Peter Sarsgaard, who plays Milgram, was nominated for several awards for his performance.


The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (2017)
Description: This film tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were taken without her consent and became one of the most important tools in medicine, raising questions about consent and medical ethics.
Fact: Oprah Winfrey stars as Deborah Lacks, Henrietta's daughter, who seeks to understand her mother's legacy.


The Human Centipede (First Sequence) (2009)
Description: While not a biopic, this horror film explores the grotesque idea of human experimentation through the lens of a mad scientist's twisted vision.
Fact: The film was banned or heavily censored in several countries due to its disturbing content.


The Elephant Man (1980)
Description: Based on the life of Joseph Merrick, who was known as the Elephant Man due to his severe deformities, this film delves into themes of human dignity, medical ethics, and societal treatment of those considered different.
Fact: The film was David Lynch's first major commercial success.


The Experiment (2001)
Description: Based on the novel "Black Box" by Mario Giordano, which was inspired by the Stanford Prison Experiment, this German film explores the dynamics of power and control in a simulated prison environment.
Fact: An American remake was made in 2010, but the original German version is often considered superior.
