For those fascinated by the intricate dance of life, the study of biology offers endless wonders. This curated list of films not only celebrates the work of biologists but also delves into their personal journeys, ethical dilemmas, and the profound impact of their discoveries on humanity. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just love a good story, these movies provide a unique lens through which to view the world.

The Fly (1986)
Description: This horror film involves a scientist, Seth Brundle, who invents a teleportation device but accidentally merges his DNA with that of a fly, leading to horrifying biological transformations. It's a cautionary tale about the ethics of genetic manipulation.
Fact: The film was a remake of the 1958 film of the same name. It won an Academy Award for Best Makeup.


Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Description: This biographical drama follows primatologist Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to studying and protecting mountain gorillas in Rwanda. It's a testament to the passion and dedication of field biologists.
Fact: Sigourney Weaver was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Dian Fossey. The film was shot on location in Rwanda.


Jurassic Park (1993)
Description: While more focused on paleontology, the film features geneticists and biologists who clone dinosaurs from preserved DNA. It explores the ethical and practical challenges of bringing extinct species back to life.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) to bring dinosaurs to life. It was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects.


The Secret of Roan Inish (1994)
Description: This film, while more of a family drama, involves themes of biology through the legend of the selkies, creatures that can transform from seals to humans, exploring the connection between humans and the natural world.
Fact: The film was based on the book "The Secret of Ron Mor Skerry" by Rosalie K. Fry. It was shot on location in Donegal, Ireland, adding to its authentic feel.


The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: This disaster film includes a paleoclimatologist, Jack Hall, who warns of a global weather catastrophe. While not strictly about biology, it touches on the biological implications of climate change and the survival of species.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Coming Global Superstorm" by Art Bell and Whitley Strieber. It was one of the highest-grossing films of


Contagion (2011)
Description: While not exclusively about biologists, this thriller features a team of scientists, including virologists and epidemiologists, racing against time to stop a deadly virus. It showcases the real-world challenges faced by those in the field of infectious disease biology.
Fact: The film was praised for its scientific accuracy, with many experts in the field consulted during production. It eerily predicted several aspects of the 2020 global health crisis.


The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: This film chronicles the life of Stephen Hawking, a theoretical physicist whose work on black holes and quantum mechanics has had profound implications for biology, particularly in understanding the origins of life. It's a poignant portrayal of his personal life, including his relationship with his first wife, Jane.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.


The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (2017)
Description: This film tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge in 1951 and became one of the most important tools in medicine, leading to numerous scientific breakthroughs. It explores the ethical implications of biological research.
Fact: Oprah Winfrey, who stars as Henrietta's daughter, also served as an executive producer for the film. The book on which the film is based was a bestseller and won several awards.


The Elephant Man (1980)
Description: Though not directly about a biologist, this film features Dr. Frederick Treves, a surgeon who takes in Joseph Merrick, known as the Elephant Man, and studies his condition, providing insights into medical and biological research of the time.
Fact: The film was directed by David Lynch and received eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.


Okja (2017)
Description: This film follows a young girl and her genetically modified "super pig," Okja, highlighting the ethical issues surrounding genetic engineering and the exploitation of animals for food.
Fact: Directed by Bong Joon-ho, the film was released on Netflix and received critical acclaim for its storytelling and visual effects.
