Movies and Shows Like Gia for Fans of Raw Drama

Description: A psychedelic journey through the rise and fall of a rock band, capturing the hedonistic lifestyle and tragic consequences of fame, much like the chaotic and often destructive path of a star.

Fact: Val Kilmer immersed himself so deeply into the role of Jim Morrison that he sang all the songs himself, and his performance was praised by the surviving members of The Doors.

Description: A poignant and raw exploration of self-destruction and redemption, focusing on a man's deliberate descent into alcoholism, echoing themes of personal turmoil and the search for meaning in chaos.

Fact: Nicolas Cage won an Academy Award for his role, and he reportedly drank real alcohol during filming to authentically portray his character's drunkenness.

Description: A biographical film about the meteoric rise and tragic fall of an artist, exploring themes of creativity, fame, and self-destruction, mirroring the volatile nature of artistic and personal expression.

Fact: The film was directed by artist Julian Schnabel, who was a contemporary of Jean-Michel Basquiat and knew him personally.

Description: Explores the controversial life of a media mogul, delving into themes of fame, excess, and the darker side of the American Dream, much like the tumultuous journey of a model navigating the highs and lows of the industry.

Fact: The film was initially rated NC-17 by the MPAA but was later re-rated to R after cuts were made. It was based on the real-life legal battles of Larry Flynt, the publisher of Hustler magazine.

Description: A harrowing depiction of addiction and its devastating effects, showcasing the destructive power of obsession and the pursuit of fleeting highs, much like the tragic descent into personal ruin.

Fact: The film's intense and rapid-cut editing style was designed to mimic the experience of being on drugs, creating a visceral viewing experience.

Description: A nostalgic and heartfelt look at the music industry through the eyes of a young journalist, blending themes of youthful idealism, the allure of fame, and the bittersweet realities of growing up.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on director Cameron Crowe's experiences as a teenage journalist for Rolling Stone magazine.

Description: Chronicles the rise and fall of a drug trafficker, capturing the allure and eventual downfall of a life steeped in excess, paralleling the highs and lows of a glamorous yet destructive lifestyle.

Fact: Johnny Depp prepared for his role by meeting with the real George Jung, the drug smuggler the film is based on, in prison.

Description: A gritty, dark portrayal of the underbelly of fame and the destructive spiral of addiction, mirroring the chaotic and often tragic lives of those caught in the whirlwind of stardom and personal demons.

Fact: The film is based on the real-life Wonderland Murders, a gruesome crime linked to the drug-fueled lifestyle of John Holmes, a famous porn star.

Description: A biographical drama that delves into the life of a socialite and muse, highlighting the fleeting nature of fame and the personal cost of living in the fast lane, similar to the ephemeral glamour of the modeling world.

Fact: The film faced legal challenges from Bob Dylan, who was portrayed in the movie, leading to some scenes being altered or removed.

Description: A coming-of-age story about a young all-female rock band, capturing the rebellious spirit, struggles, and eventual fragmentation under the pressures of fame and personal demons.

Fact: Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart performed all their own singing and instrument playing in the film, adding authenticity to their roles.