Must-Watch Documentaries Similar to Gringo

Description: A biographical crime film that traces the rise and fall of a drug trafficker who becomes a key player in the cocaine trade. It portrays the seductive allure of wealth and the inevitable downfall that follows.

Fact: The film is based on the life of George Jung, who helped establish the American cocaine market in the 1970s. Johnny Depp prepared for the role by meeting Jung in prison.

Description: This film follows the thrilling escapades of a young con artist who successfully impersonates various professionals, evading law enforcement while living a lavish lifestyle. It highlights themes of deception, charm, and the cat-and-mouse chase between the protagonist and authorities.

Fact: The story is based on the real-life exploits of Frank Abagnale Jr., who forged checks worth millions before turning 2Abagnale later became a consultant for the FBI on fraud prevention.

Description: A gritty exploration of the international arms trade, following an unscrupulous arms dealer who profits from global conflicts. The film critiques the moral ambiguity and devastating impact of the weapons industry.

Fact: The opening sequence, which follows the life of a bullet from manufacture to its final use, was praised for its creativity. Nicolas Cage's character is loosely based on several real-life arms dealers.

Description: A high-energy portrayal of excess, corruption, and the downfall of a financial prodigy who manipulates the system for personal gain. The film captures the allure and consequences of living on the edge of legality.

Fact: The movie is based on the real-life story of Jordan Belfort, who ran a fraudulent stock brokerage firm. It holds the record for the most uses of the word 'f***' in a non-documentary film.

Description: A darkly comedic take on corporate whistleblowing, centered around a high-ranking executive who exposes price-fixing while hiding his own secrets. The film blends humor with a critique of corporate corruption.

Fact: The movie is based on the true story of Mark Whitacre, the highest-ranking corporate whistleblower in U.S. history. Matt Damon gained 30 pounds for the role to portray Whitacre accurately.

Description: A gripping drama about the creation of a revolutionary tech platform, marred by legal battles and personal betrayals. It delves into the complexities of ambition, friendship, and the ethical dilemmas of success.

Fact: The screenplay was written by Aaron Sorkin, who crafted the dialogue based on extensive research but admitted to taking creative liberties. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: A sharp, satirical take on the 2008 financial crisis, focusing on a group of outsiders who predicted the collapse and profited from it. The film exposes systemic corruption and the reckless behavior of financial institutions.

Fact: The movie uses unconventional storytelling techniques, including breaking the fourth wall, to explain complex financial concepts. It won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This dark comedy-drama follows two young arms dealers who exploit government contracts to make millions, only to face the consequences of their reckless ambition. It highlights the absurdity and danger of unchecked greed.

Fact: The movie is based on the true story of Efraim Diveroli and David Packouz, who secured a $300 million Pentagon contract. Jonah Hill's character was inspired by real-life recordings of Diveroli.

Description: This action-packed biopic chronicles the life of a pilot turned drug smuggler who becomes entangled with the CIA and cartels. It explores themes of greed, betrayal, and the blurred lines between crime and government operations.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Barry Seal, a TWA pilot who worked as a drug runner for the Medellín Cartel. Much of the movie was shot in Colombia, adding to its authenticity.

Description: This documentary explores the rise and fall of a controversial tech entrepreneur, delving into themes of deception, ambition, and the dark side of innovation. It mirrors the narrative of a charismatic yet morally ambiguous figure whose actions blur the line between genius and fraud.

Fact: The film focuses on Elizabeth Holmes and her company Theranos, which claimed to revolutionize blood testing but was later exposed as a massive fraud. It features never-before-seen footage and interviews with key insiders.