True Crime Films: 10 Movies Based on Real Events

Description: This film is based on the true story of John Wojtowicz's bank robbery in Brooklyn to pay for his lover's sex reassignment surgery. It's a tense, character-driven drama about desperation and the American Dream.

Fact: The film was inspired by a Life magazine article about the actual event. Al Pacino improvised the famous "Attica!" chant during the filming, which became one of the movie's most memorable moments.

Description: This film recounts the true story of Jeffrey Wigand, a tobacco industry whistleblower, and his interview with "60 Minutes" producer Lowell Bergman. It's a tense drama about corporate cover-ups and the fight for truth.

Fact: Al Pacino and Russell Crowe both received Academy Award nominations for their performances. The film's script was based on a Vanity Fair article about the events.

Description: The life of George Jung, one of the biggest cocaine smugglers in the U.S., is depicted in this film. It's a cautionary tale about the allure and destruction of the drug trade.

Fact: Johnny Depp met with the real George Jung to prepare for the role. The film was originally set to be directed by Oliver Stone but was eventually directed by Ted Demme.

Description: Based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr., this film follows his escapades as a con artist, check forger, and impostor, all before turning 21. It's a cat-and-mouse game with the FBI that's both thrilling and comedic.

Fact: Frank Abagnale Jr. served as a consultant for the film and even had a cameo. The real-life Abagnale was actually caught by the FBI in France, not in the U.S. as depicted in the movie.

Description: Based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer, this film explores the investigation into one of America's most infamous unsolved murder cases. It's a chilling look at obsession, journalism, and the hunt for a serial killer.

Fact: The film uses real locations where the Zodiac Killer committed his crimes, adding a layer of authenticity. David Fincher, the director, is known for his meticulous attention to detail.

Description: This film tells the story of Frank Lucas, a real-life drug lord who rose to power in Harlem during the late 1960s and early 1970s. It's a tale of ambition, corruption, and the American Dream gone awry.

Fact: Denzel Washington, who played Lucas, met with the real Frank Lucas to prepare for the role. The film was shot on location in Harlem, adding authenticity to the setting.

Description: This film chronicles the rise and fall of Jordan Belfort, a stockbroker who engaged in corruption and fraud on Wall Street. It's a wild ride through excess, debauchery, and the dark side of the American financial system.

Fact: The film was originally rated NC-17 due to its explicit content but was edited down to an R rating. Leonardo DiCaprio improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's raw energy.

Description: Based on the true story of Mark Whitacre, an executive who turned FBI informant on his own company, this film blends dark comedy with corporate espionage and whistleblowing.

Fact: Matt Damon gained 30 pounds for the role to match Whitacre's appearance. The film's title uses an exclamation mark to reflect the surprise and absurdity of the events.

Description: This film tells the story of Richard Kuklinski, a notorious contract killer who led a double life as a family man. It's a chilling exploration of the duality of human nature.

Fact: Michael Shannon, who played Kuklinski, met with the real-life killer's daughter to understand his character better. Kuklinski was known for his method of freezing bodies to confuse the time of death.

Description: This film explains the complex financial instruments that led to the 2008 financial crisis through the eyes of those who saw it coming. It's both an educational and entertaining look at greed and systemic failure.

Fact: The film uses celebrity cameos to break the fourth wall and explain financial jargon to the audience. It was nominated for five Academy Awards, winning Best Adapted Screenplay.