Top 8 True Story Movies That Bring Real-Life Drama to the Big Screen

Movies always capture our attention, but films based on true stories are even more compelling. As Steven Knight, a well-known director, once said, “True stories are always good because they’re so odd, and so unlikely.”

True story movies allow viewers to connect deeply with the characters and narratives, knowing that the stories they are watching actually happened. The emotional impact is often heightened, as audiences are not just entertained but also educated and inspired by the real-world implications of these tales.

In this list, we highlight eight compelling true story movies that showcase the power of the genre. Each movie not only entertains but also invites viewers to dive into the real-life events and people behind the scenes.

Dolemite Is My Name: The True Story Behind Rudy Ray Moore’s Rise to Fame 

Dolemite Is My Name (2019) is a vibrant, heartfelt celebration of Rudy Ray Moore’s audacious journey to fame, skillfully directed by Craig Brewer. The film chronicles Moore’s transformation from a struggling entertainer to a cultural icon through his creation of the larger-than-life alter ego, Dolemite.

Eddie Murphy delivers a career-defining performance as Moore, capturing both the bold confidence and underlying vulnerability of an aging performer determined to break into Hollywood. His impeccable comedic timing breathes life into Moore’s brash character, while also conveying the grit behind his rise.

The story follows Moore’s unconventional path to success, starting from obscurity and culminating in his self-financed, low-budget film Dolemite, which eventually became a cult classic.

Born in 1927, Moore spent years working as a singer, dancer, and comedian before finding his breakthrough with Dolemite, a fast-talking, crime-fighting antihero inspired by the lewd rhymes of a homeless man.

Initially popular in nightclubs and on comedy albums, the character’s growing following pushed Moore to take his creation to the big screen, defying the odds and the industry’s lack of support.

The supporting cast, including Wesley Snipes and Keegan-Michael Key, adds depth and charm to the film, while the vibrant cinematography and period details fully immerse viewers in the 1970s.

Key scenes, like the hectic filming of the famous fight sequence, highlight Moore’s determination and creativity. Cinematographer Kramer Morgenthau brings the blaxploitation era to life with bright colors and bold camera angles, capturing the raw, inventive style of low-budget filmmaking.

The screenplay, written by Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski, strikes a perfect balance between sharp wit and poignant moments, showcasing Moore’s unshakeable belief in himself despite facing constant rejection.

At its heart, Dolemite Is My Name is about perseverance and creating your own opportunities, especially in an industry that often overlooks people like Rudy Ray Moore. It also shows how Moore’s films gave African-American audiences a hero they could relate to.

The film is both an entertaining and inspiring tribute to an underdog whose fierce creativity and independent spirit left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Dolemite Is My Name has earned critical acclaim, with a 7.2/10 rating on IMDb and a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

It won Best Costume Design and Best Comedy at the Critics’ Choice Awards and was nominated for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes, where Eddie Murphy earned a nomination for Best Actor. Additionally, the National Board of Review named it one of the Top Ten Films of the Year.

Dumb Money: The GameStop Saga and the Power of Retail Investors

Nominated for Best Comedy Film at the 2023 Las Vegas Film Critics Society Awards and for the Cinema for Peace Dove for Most Valuable Film of the Year at the 2024 Cinema for Peace Awards, Dumb Money (2023), directed by Craig Gillespie, is a compelling financial drama based on the GameStop stock controversy.

It chronicles the true story behind the GameStop stock surge of 2021, where a group of retail investors, primarily from the Reddit community r/WallStreetBets, banded together to drive up the price of GameStop shares, resulting in massive losses for institutional investors.

Paul Dano delivers a standout performance as Keith Gill, the retail investor who ignites the movement, capturing both his passion and vulnerability. Supporting performances from Seth Rogen, Pete Davidson, and Vincent D’Onofrio add further depth to the ensemble.

The screenplay, written by Lauren Schuker Blum and Rebecca Angelo, effectively mixes sharp wit with serious themes, exploring issues of economic inequality, market manipulation, and the role of technology in democratizing finance.

While the film adheres to the key events of the GameStop saga, it takes some creative liberties, fictionalizing certain characters and condensing timelines for narrative purposes. The movie captures the essence of the controversy and the ethical questions it raised about market fairness and institutional power.

“Everything was profoundly affecting us – losing loved ones, financial hardships, a government that wasn’t helping. There was all this frustration and isolation, and willingness to connect socially, and all these things lined up and funnelled into GameStop,” said director Craig Gillespie.

At its core, Dumb Money explores how collective action and social media empowered individual investors to challenge Wall Street’s elite, highlighting the cultural impact of technology and the shifting financial landscape

With its sharp performances, fast-paced direction, and timely themes, Dumb Money stands as both an entertaining film and an insightful commentary on modern finance, earning critical acclaim with an 84% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid 6.9/10 on IMDb.

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile: The Ted Bundy Story Through Elizabeth Kloepfer’s Eyes

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019), directed by Joe Berlinger, is a biographical crime drama that tells the story of Ted Bundy, one of America’s most notorious serial killers, through the eyes of his longtime girlfriend, Elizabeth Kloepfer.

Zac Efron delivers a standout performance as Bundy, skillfully portraying both his charm and sinister nature. He masterfully switches between Bundy’s charismatic facade and his darker, manipulative side, adding depth to the character and making him both captivating and unsettling.

As Efron himself explained, “It all happened very quickly. I had heard there was a good script out there about Ted Bundy – it was on the Black List for a few years. However, it was Joe and his involvement, and his description of the story we would be telling, that made me excited to read the script and sign on for the movie.”

Lily Collins also shines as Elizabeth Kloepfer, bringing vulnerability and depth to the character. Her portrayal of Elizabeth’s internal struggle – from disbelief to devastation – anchors the emotional weight of the film.

The screenplay, written by Michael Werwie, offers a deep look at the emotional complexity of Elizabeth’s relationship with Bundy. Instead of focusing on the gruesome details of Bundy’s crimes, it highlights the emotional toll and manipulation at the heart of their relationship.

The script maintains a sense of mystery and suspense, capturing Elizabeth’s confusion and inner conflict. While some events are changed for dramatic effect, these adjustments help enhance the emotional focus of the film.

One of the film’s most powerful moments is toward the end when Elizabeth has to face the full truth about Bundy’s crimes. In a tense and heartbreaking scene, Elizabeth watches Bundy’s trial on TV as she processes the reality of the man she loved.

At its core, Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile explores themes of manipulation, denial, and the emotional toll of being in an abusive relationship. The film sheds light on the devastating impact of loving a manipulator and how deception can cloud judgment and strain relationships.

On a broader level, the film highlights how society can be misled by individuals who hide behind a mask of normalcy. It uncovers how manipulative people can operate undetected within social systems.

On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 57%, with IMDb users giving it a solid 6.7/10. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile is not just a portrayal of Bundy’s crimes, but a poignant commentary on manipulation, denial, and the emotional devastation faced by those who loved a monster.

The film was also nominated for the Best Horror/Thriller Film at the National Film and Television Award. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of abusive relationships and how individuals can be deceived by those who wear a mask of normalcy.

The Trial of the Chicago 7: Recalling the Defiant Voices Against the Vietnam War 

Nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Sacha Baron Cohen, and Best Original Screenplay for Aaron Sorkin, The Trial of the Chicago 7 (2020) is a gripping historical legal drama written and directed by Aaron Sorkin.

Based on the true events surrounding the infamous 1969 trial, the film chronicles the case of seven anti-Vietnam War protesters charged with conspiracy and inciting riots during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1960s, The Trial of the Chicago 7 delves deep into the power of civil disobedience, the right to protest, and the tense clash between activists and the political establishment.

The Chicago 7 – Abbie Hoffman (Sacha Baron Cohen), Jerry Rubin (Jeremy Strong), Tom Hayden (Eddie Redmayne), David Dellinger (John Carroll Lynch), Rennie Davis (Alex Sharp), John Froines (Daniel Flaherty), and Lee Weiner (Noah Robbins) – were accused of planning to incite violence during the protests at the convention.

The trial was widely viewed as politically motivated, with the defendants seen as symbols of the broader counterculture movement that was protesting the Vietnam War and the policies of the Nixon administration.

Sorkin’s script skillfully captures the tension of the era with sharp dialogue and a fast-paced structure that builds both the courtroom drama and the political context. The film also reveals corruption in the legal system, focusing on Judge Julius Hoffman’s (Frank Langella) open hostility toward the defendants and the political nature of the charges.

Though The Trial of the Chicago 7 takes some dramatic liberties for cinematic effect, it remains a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of free speech, political dissent, and the struggle for justice. The film also resonates strongly with modern-day issues of protest, government overreach, and social justice movements.

Eddie Redmayne, reflecting on his portrayal of Tom Hayden, said, “He was an extraordinary man. Throughout his life, he fought for civil rights, for the environment, against gangs – or for the understanding and comprehension of gang culture… And what I took away from it – and this is only a moment in his life amongst an ensemble of people – but what I took away from him was integrity.”

The film also received three British Academy Film Awards nominations and five Golden Globe Awards nominations, winning Best Screenplay. Additionally, it won the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture at the Screen Actors Guild Awards

On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a 90% approval rating, and it has received a solid 7.8/10 rating on IMDb. At its heart, The Trial of the Chicago 7 is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice, no matter the cost.

The Two Popes: A Gripping Look at the Relationship Between Two Church Leaders 

The Two Popes (2019), directed by Fernando Meirelles, is a thought-provoking biographical drama that delves into the relationship between two key figures in the Catholic Church: Pope Benedict XVI, played by Anthony Hopkins, and Pope Francis, portrayed by Jonathan Pryce.

Set during the period leading up to Benedict’s historic resignation in 2013, the film explores the contrasting personalities and ideologies of the two men.

Benedict, depicted as a conservative, intellectual figure, feels burdened by the pressures of the papacy and the growing scandals within the Church, while Francis, a more progressive and pastoral figure, seeks Benedict’s permission to retire from his role as a cardinal.

However, instead of merely granting his request, their encounters evolve into profound conversations about faith, power, and the future of the Church, revealing the personal struggles and moral dilemmas both men face.

The film explores themes of tradition versus reform, showcasing the tension between Benedict’s traditionalism and Francis’s more inclusive, modern approach.

What sets The Two Popes apart is not just its exploration of these theological and ideological differences but also the warmth and humor injected into their dialogues, which humanize these towering figures.

The intimate setting of the Vatican, combined with the rich performances of Hopkins and Pryce, makes the film both engaging and emotionally resonant, offering a fresh perspective on the personal side of papal leadership.

The film also reflects on faith, leadership, and the possibility of change, capturing the humanity of two men who, despite their differences, forge an unexpected bond. It has received positive reviews from both audiences and critics. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 7.6/10, and on Rotten Tomatoes, it has a 90% approval rating from critics.

The film also earned four BAFTA nominations, including Best Leading Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Outstanding British Film of the Year. Additionally, it was nominated for four Golden Globe Awards: Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Screenplay.

The Irishman: Inside the World of Organized Crime and Hoffa’s Disappearance 

Directed by Martin Scorsese, The Irishman (2019) is a captivating and expansive crime drama that explores the gritty, intricate world of organized crime in mid-20th-century America. Based on the memoir I Heard You Paint Houses by Charles Brandt, the film chronicles the life of Frank Sheeran, a World War II veteran turned hitman for the mob, played by Robert De Niro.

Over the course of the film, Sheeran recounts his involvement with infamous mob boss Russell Bufalino (Joe Pesci) and his close association with union leader Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino), whose mysterious disappearance in 1975 has been the subject of intense speculation for decades.

As Sheeran narrates his story, the film spans several decades, offering a look at his rise in the criminal underworld, his relationship with Hoffa, and his ultimate role in Hoffa’s likely fate.

Scorsese’s direction, combined with a powerhouse cast, creates a dark, reflective atmosphere that highlights themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral cost of a life in crime.

Using advanced de-aging technology, the film lets its veteran actors play their characters at different ages, making the story feel more authentic. With its slow pacing and detailed storytelling, the film encourages viewers to think about the personal consequences of living a life of crime.

At its heart, The Irishman is about the choices we make and the regret that follows. It explores loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of living a life in crime. The film also looks at the power dynamics in politics and society, especially through Hoffa’s role in the union and his clashes with the Mafia.

What’s more, it reflects on aging, as Sheeran thinks about the relationships he lost and the time he wasted. Ultimately, the film shows that everyone must face the consequences of their actions, and time never stops.

With a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an impressive 7.8/10 rating on IMDb, The Irishman is widely regarded as a masterwork in Scorsese’s storied career, offering a chilling yet poignant look into the heart of organized crime and the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa.

The Irishman received ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director (Martin Scorsese), and Best Supporting Actor (Al Pacino and Joe Pesci). It also earned five Golden Globe nominations and ten BAFTA nominations. The film won Best Film from the National Board of Review and was named one of the top ten films of the year by the American Film Institute.

Harriet: Cynthia Erivo’s Powerful Portrayal of the “Moses of Her People” 

Harriet (2019) is a bold and emotionally charged biographical drama that chronicles the remarkable life of Harriet Tubman, one of the most iconic figures in American history. Directed by Kasi Lemmons, the film highlights Tubman’s daring escape from slavery and her relentless efforts to guide others to freedom through the Underground Railroad.

“I really wanted to create a film that a sophisticated 10-year-old could see with his grandmother, which isn’t easy for a film that takes place during slavery,” she Kasi Lemmons. “And then I wanted to really be able to represent Harriet as accurately as I could, while still making an entertaining movie that would reach a broad audience.”

At the core of the film is Cynthia Erivo’s gripping performance as Tubman, which captures the raw courage, moral clarity, and spiritual strength that defined her life. Erivo, whose portrayal of Tubman won her widespread acclaim and awards, brings an unparalleled intensity to the role, blending vulnerability with unyielding determination.

The film does not shy away from the brutal realities of slavery but also celebrates Tubman’s resilience, her strategic genius, and her profound sense of duty.

The story goes beyond the myth of Tubman as a hero; it humanizes her, showing the personal sacrifices she made, the trauma she endured, and the spiritual calling that drove her to risk her life repeatedly to free others.

Harriet is as much about the power of faith and courage in the face of unspeakable hardship as it is about the cost of standing up to oppression. Through harrowing escapes and dangerous missions, the film highlights the human toll of freedom’s fight while emphasizing the indomitable spirit of the woman who became known as the “Moses of her people.”

The film also touches on the political and racial tensions of the time, making Tubman’s work not only a fight for personal liberation but also a stand for the future of a nation.

With a 74% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid 6.7/10 rating on IMDb, Harriet has been praised for its historical accuracy, its respectful and nuanced portrayal of Tubman, and the powerful, transformative performance by Cynthia Erivo.

The film serves as a poignant reminder of the legacy of Tubman’s activism, as well as the ongoing fight for freedom and equality. It is both an intimate portrayal of one woman’s extraordinary courage and a larger testament to the collective struggle for justice, one that continues to resonate today.

Lost Girls: The Heartbreaking Search for Justice Behind the Gilgo Beach Murders

Lost Girls, released in 2020, is a haunting and powerful crime drama directed by Liz Garbus, based on the true events surrounding the unsolved murders of several young women along Long Island’s Gilgo Beach.

The film is adapted from the book Lost Girls: An Unsolved Mystery by Robert Kolb, and it sheds light on the investigation into the deaths of these women, whose bodies were discovered in 2010.

At the heart of the film is the story of Mari Gilbert (played by Amy Ryan), a determined mother who embarks on a relentless search for her missing daughter, Shannan Gilbert, whose disappearance is initially dismissed by authorities as a simple case of a prostitute gone missing.

“The character of Mari Gilbert was one that I really understood and empathized with,” Garbus said. “This is a story about believing women, and having women’s voices be taken seriously within our institutions.”

As Mari investigates Shannan’s disappearance, she discovers a disturbing pattern of unsolved murders of other women in the area. She faces a system that is both indifferent and dismissive of the victims, many of whom were sex workers.

Lost Girls is not just a true crime drama; it is a poignant and emotionally charged portrayal of a mother’s grief and determination in the face of a broken system. Amy Ryan delivers a raw and compelling performance as Mari, capturing the heartbreak, frustration, and strength of a woman whose search for answers turns into a fight for justice.

The film explores the intersection of gender, class, and law enforcement, emphasizing the systemic neglect of marginalized women and how their lives are often overlooked by society.

With a 73% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid 6.2/10 rating on IMDb, Lost Girls has been praised for its sensitive handling of a real-life tragedy, the performances of its cast, and its sharp commentary on the flaws of the justice system.

The film serves as both a tribute to the victims of the Gilgo Beach murders and a testament to the unwavering love of a mother who refused to let her daughter be forgotten. It received the ReFrame Stamp for Top 100 Most Popular Narrative & Animated Feature in 2021.