Neighbors can be friends, foes, or even family, and their stories often make for compelling cinema. This curated list of biopic films delves into the intricate relationships between neighbors, showcasing the drama, humor, and sometimes the tragedy that unfolds when lives are lived in close proximity. From heartwarming tales of friendship to intense rivalries, these films offer a window into the human experience through the lens of neighborhood dynamics.

The War of the Roses (1989)
Description: A dark comedy about a couple whose divorce battle escalates into a full-blown war, involving their neighbors in the chaos. It's a cautionary tale about the breakdown of relationships.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Warren Adler, which was inspired by a real-life divorce case. Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner had previously starred together in "Romancing the Stone."


The Straight Story (1999)
Description: Based on the true story of Alvin Straight, who rides a lawnmower across Iowa to reconcile with his estranged brother. The journey involves encounters with various neighbors along the way.
Fact: This was David Lynch's only G-rated film. Richard Farnsworth was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor.


The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Description: While primarily about Chris Gardner's struggle, the film includes his interactions with neighbors, showcasing the support and challenges of community life.
Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the film, mirroring their real-life relationship.


The Savages (2007)
Description: Two estranged siblings must come together to care for their ailing father, leading to interactions with their neighbors. It's a poignant look at family dynamics and the support of community.
Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Laura Linney.


The Blind Side (2009)
Description: This film tells the story of Michael Oher, a homeless teen taken in by a family, highlighting the role of neighbors in his transformation. It's about kindness, community, and second chances.
Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film was based on the book by Michael Lewis.


The Joneses (2009)
Description: This film explores the concept of "keeping up with the Joneses" when a family moves into a neighborhood, seemingly perfect but with a hidden agenda. It delves into consumerism and the facades of suburban life.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life marketing strategies known as "stealth marketing." The director, Derrick Borte, also wrote the screenplay.


The Help (2011)
Description: Set in the 1960s, this film explores the lives of African-American maids and their white employers, focusing on the relationships and secrets within a neighborhood.
Fact: The film was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's best-selling novel. It received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.


Neighbors (2014)
Description: While not a traditional biopic, this comedy captures the essence of neighborly relations when a couple's life is turned upside down by a fraternity moving next door. It's a humorous take on the generational clash.
Fact: The film was based on the experiences of its writers, Andrew J. Cohen and Brendan O'Brien, who had similar issues with a fraternity next door.


The Neighbor (2016)
Description: This film tells the story of a retired couple whose peaceful life is disrupted by the arrival of a new, mysterious neighbor. It's a tale of suspicion, friendship, and the secrets that neighbors keep.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events in a small town in Oregon. The director, Marcus Dunstan, also co-wrote the screenplay.


The Good Neighbor (2016)
Description: A psychological thriller about two high school students who conduct a social experiment on their reclusive neighbor, leading to unexpected consequences. It explores themes of morality and the impact of isolation.
Fact: The film was shot in just 18 days. The ending was kept a secret from most of the cast and crew until the final day of shooting.
