Dive into the world of pharmaceuticals with this curated list of biopics that highlight the lives and contributions of pharmacists. These films not only entertain but also educate viewers about the pivotal role pharmacists play in healthcare, innovation, and the ethical dilemmas they face. From historical figures to modern-day heroes, these stories are a testament to the human spirit and the quest for better health.

Lorenzo's Oil (1992)
Description: This film tells the story of parents who research and develop an oil to treat their son's rare disease, involving interactions with the pharmaceutical community.
Fact: The film was based on the true story of Lorenzo Odone, whose parents' efforts led to the creation of Lorenzo's oil. It was nominated for two Academy Awards.


The Constant Gardener (2005)
Description: This thriller delves into the dark side of the pharmaceutical industry, where a diplomat investigates the death of his wife, uncovering corporate corruption and drug testing in Africa.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Kenya, highlighting the real-world issues of pharmaceutical trials in developing countries. Rachel Weisz won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.


Dallas Buyers Club (2013)
Description: This film follows Ron Woodroof, who smuggles unapproved pharmaceutical drugs into the U.S. to help AIDS patients, showcasing the ethical and legal challenges in the pharmaceutical world.
Fact: Both Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto won Academy Awards for their performances. The film was based on a true story and sparked discussions on drug approval processes.


Extraordinary Measures (2010)
Description: While not exclusively about a pharmacist, this film showcases the efforts of John Crowley, a father who teams up with a scientist to find a cure for his children's rare genetic disorder, involving the pharmaceutical industry.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of John Crowley, whose story was also detailed in the book "The Cure: How a Father Raised $100 Million – And Bucked the Medical Establishment – In a Quest to Save His Children."


The Imitation Game (2014)
Description: While focusing on Alan Turing's work in codebreaking, the film also touches on his personal life, where he was subjected to hormone treatments, a form of pharmaceutical intervention.
Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch was nominated for an Academy Award for his role as Alan Turing. The film also won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.


The Intern (2015)
Description: Although primarily a comedy, this film features a subplot where Robert De Niro's character, a retired salesman, works at a startup company that produces a health and wellness app, involving pharmaceutical elements.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life program where seniors intern at startups. It also showcases the evolving role of technology in the pharmaceutical industry.


The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: This biopic of Stephen Hawking includes scenes where his condition requires pharmaceutical intervention, highlighting the role of pharmacists in managing chronic illnesses.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.


The Founder (2016)
Description: While focusing on Ray Kroc and the McDonald's empire, the film touches on the role of pharmacists in franchising and business development, particularly through the lens of the McDonald brothers' story.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations where McDonald's has historical significance, including the original McDonald's restaurant in San Bernardino, California.


The Pharmacist (2020)
Description: This Netflix docuseries follows Dan Schneider, a New Orleans pharmacist, as he investigates his son's death and uncovers a massive opioid crisis. It's a gripping tale of one man's journey from personal loss to public advocacy.
Fact: The series was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series. Dan Schneider's investigation led to the arrest of several individuals involved in illegal drug distribution.


The Pill (2011)
Description: This documentary explores the history of the birth control pill, focusing on the scientists and activists who fought for its development and legalization, including the contributions of pharmacists.
Fact: The film features interviews with key figures like Carl Djerassi, one of the scientists who helped develop the pill. It also highlights the social and political battles surrounding contraception.
