The Atlantic Ocean has been a stage for countless tales of adventure, survival, and human spirit. This curated list of biographical films brings to life the stories of explorers, sailors, and adventurers who have braved its vast waters. Each film not only offers a glimpse into the personal journeys of these individuals but also showcases the indomitable spirit of humanity against the backdrop of one of the world's most formidable oceans. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of adventure, or simply looking for an inspiring tale, these films will take you on an unforgettable voyage.

The Old Man and the Sea (1990)
Description: Based on Hemingway's novel, this film captures the essence of an old fisherman's struggle with a giant marlin in the Gulf Stream, part of the Atlantic Ocean.
Fact: The film was animated, using a unique technique to bring the story to life.


The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: While primarily set in Africa, the film features scenes of the Atlantic Ocean as the characters travel to and from the continent, highlighting the ocean's role in global exploration.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Tsavo maneaters, but the ocean scenes add a layer of historical context.


The Perfect Storm (2000)
Description: This film recounts the true story of the Andrea Gail, a fishing vessel caught in the "perfect storm" of 1991. It's a gripping tale of survival, showcasing the harsh realities of life at sea and the unyielding spirit of the crew.
Fact: The film was shot on the actual Andrea Gail's sister ship, the Hannah Boden. Also, the real-life storm was recreated using a combination of real footage and CGI.


The Sea Inside (2004)
Description: While not directly about the Atlantic, this Spanish film explores the life of Ramón Sampedro, a quadriplegic who fought for the right to end his life, with scenes set against the backdrop of the Atlantic coast.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Javier Bardem's performance was critically acclaimed.


In the Heart of the Sea (2015)
Description: Based on the true story that inspired "Moby-Dick," this film follows the crew of the Essex, a whaling ship attacked by a giant sperm whale in the South Pacific, leading to their desperate struggle for survival in the Atlantic.
Fact: The film was shot in the Canary Islands to replicate the look of the South Pacific. Chris Hemsworth learned to row for his role as the first mate.


Kon-Tiki (2012)
Description: This Norwegian film tells the story of Thor Heyerdahl's 1947 expedition across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft, proving that ancient peoples could have made similar voyages across the Atlantic.
Fact: The film was shot in both English and Norwegian versions. The raft was built using the same techniques as Heyerdahl's original.


The Finest Hours (2016)
Description: This film dramatizes the Coast Guard's daring rescue of the crew from the SS Pendleton, which split in two during a brutal storm off the coast of Cape Cod in 1952.
Fact: The rescue operation was one of the most daring in Coast Guard history. The film used real Coast Guard boats for authenticity.


The Light Between Oceans (2016)
Description: This film, set in the 1920s, follows a lighthouse keeper and his wife living on an isolated island off the coast of Western Australia, with the Atlantic Ocean playing a pivotal role in their story.
Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand and Australia, with the ocean scenes being a significant part of the visual storytelling.


The Mercy (2018)
Description: This film follows the ill-fated journey of Donald Crowhurst, a British businessman who entered the 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race, a solo, non-stop, round-the-world yacht race.
Fact: Colin Firth plays Crowhurst, and the film uses real footage from the time to enhance authenticity.


The Edge of the World (1937)
Description: This British film, set on the remote island of Foula in the North Atlantic, explores the lives of its inhabitants and their struggle against the elements.
Fact: It was Michael Powell's first feature film, shot on location with non-professional actors.
