10 Dramatic Films About Changing Appearances

Description: A struggling actor, Michael Dorsey, adopts the persona of Dorothy Michaels to land a role on a soap opera. His transformation into a woman leads to hilarious and heartfelt situations, exploring themes of identity and gender roles.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman spent hours in makeup every day for his role, and the film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, winning one for Best Supporting Actress for Jessica Lange.

Description: A young boy's wish to be big is granted, leading to a comedic and heartfelt exploration of adulthood through the eyes of a child. His physical transformation into an adult body brings about a unique perspective on growing up.

Fact: Tom Hanks won a Golden Globe for his role, and the film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Hanks.

Description: After losing custody of his children, a father disguises himself as an elderly British nanny to spend time with them. This comedic yet touching film examines the lengths one will go to for family and the transformative power of love.

Fact: Robin Williams improvised much of his dialogue, leading to some of the film's most memorable moments. The makeup process for his character took over four hours each day.

Description: A timid bank clerk discovers a magical mask that transforms him into a wild, zany character, exploring themes of identity and the release of one's inner self through physical transformation.

Fact: Jim Carrey's performance was so energetic that he lost weight during filming due to the physical demands of the role.

Description: A shy, overweight professor invents a formula that transforms him into a slim, suave version of himself, leading to comedic and romantic misadventures that question the essence of self-worth and acceptance.

Fact: Eddie Murphy played seven different characters in the film, showcasing his versatility in comedy.

Description: Tom Ripley's transformation into Dickie Greenleaf involves not just a change in appearance but also in identity, leading to a psychological thriller about deception, envy, and the desire to escape one's own life.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Italy, and Matt Damon learned to play the piano for his role.

Description: Set in the 1960s, this musical comedy-drama features a transformation in both appearance and attitude as characters challenge societal norms through dance and song, promoting themes of acceptance and change.

Fact: John Travolta, who played Edna Turnblad, wore a fat suit and makeup for his role, marking a significant physical transformation.

Description: While not a physical transformation, the film showcases a character's evolution in style and attitude as she navigates the cutthroat world of fashion, symbolizing a change in identity and self-perception.

Fact: Meryl Streep's portrayal of Miranda Priestly was inspired by Vogue editor Anna Wintour, and Streep won a Golden Globe for her performance.

Description: This poignant drama tells the true story of Lili Elbe, one of the first known recipients of sex reassignment surgery. The film explores her journey of self-discovery and transformation, highlighting the emotional and societal challenges she faces.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne's performance as Lili Elbe earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film was also nominated for Best Production Design.

Description: Two friends magically swap bodies, leading to a comedic exploration of each other's lives, highlighting how external appearances can drastically alter one's perspective and life choices.

Fact: The film required extensive use of CGI to blend the actors' faces seamlessly during the body swap scenes.