10 Biographical Films About Everyday Life

Description: This film tells the story of Erin Brockovich, a single mother who becomes a legal assistant and almost single-handedly brings down a California power company accused of polluting a city's water supply. It's a tale of everyday heroism and determination.

Fact: Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Erin Brockovich.

Description: This film recounts the life of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist, during the Holocaust. It's a story of survival, resilience, and the power of music amidst the everyday horrors of war.

Fact: Adrien Brody, who played Szpilman, learned to play the piano for the role and lost significant weight to portray the character's physical deterioration.

Description: This film is based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics who struggled with schizophrenia. It's an exploration of genius, love, and the everyday challenges of mental illness.

Fact: Russell Crowe was nominated for an Academy Award for his role as Nash, and the film won Best Picture.

Description: This film focuses on Truman Capote's research for his book "In Cold Blood," detailing his relationship with the murderers he interviewed. It's a deep dive into the everyday life of a writer and the ethical dilemmas he faces.

Fact: Philip Seymour Hoffman won a posthumous Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Capote.

Description: This film tells the true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, a French journalist who suffers a massive stroke that leaves him with locked-in syndrome, able to communicate only by blinking his left eye. It's a poignant exploration of how one can find beauty and meaning in the most constrained circumstances.

Fact: The film was shot from Bauby's perspective, with the camera often placed to mimic his limited field of vision. Also, the real-life editor of Elle magazine, who was Bauby's friend, played herself in the film.

Description: Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, this film follows his journey from homelessness to becoming a successful stockbroker. It's a powerful narrative about perseverance and the everyday fight for a better life.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the film. The film's title misspells "happiness" to reflect the real-life misspelling on a mural that inspired Gardner.

Description: Based on the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who becomes an All-American football player and first-round NFL draft pick with the help of a caring family. It's a heartwarming story of everyday kindness and the transformative power of love.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.

Description: This film explores the relationship between King George VI and his speech therapist, Lionel Logue, as they work to overcome the King's stammer. It's a story about overcoming personal obstacles in the public eye, showcasing the everyday struggles of royalty.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Original Screenplay.

Description: This film chronicles the life of physicist Stephen Hawking, focusing on his relationship with his first wife, Jane, and his battle with motor neuron disease. It's a testament to the power of the human spirit and the everyday struggles that accompany genius.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne, who played Hawking, won an Oscar for Best Actor. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.

Description: Based on the life of Christy Brown, an Irishman born with cerebral palsy who could only control his left foot. The film showcases his journey from a misunderstood child to a celebrated artist and writer, highlighting the everyday challenges and triumphs.

Fact: Daniel Day-Lewis won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Christy Brown. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.