Top 10 Movies Based on True Stories

Get ready for an exciting ride through the world of truth-based cinema! We have handpicked the top 10 movies that take you through history, crime, and real-life stories. From iconic historical events to true-crime stories, these movies offer a unique blend of entertainment and education.

Whenever you get to know that the movie you’re watching is based on a true story, the excitement gets intensified. These movies prove that the truth is often different from fiction and showcase the reality of our society.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy these real-life stories that inspire millions globally. This list of top 10 movies based on true stories is a collection of drama and history with a dash of mind-bending trips. Tune into any of these movies and enjoy your night with some popcorn!

Top 10 Movies Based On True Stories:

Here are the top 10 movies based on true stories worth your watch. The films listed below are highly rated and have captivated millions globally. Moreover, we will guide you with where to stream or rent these movies. So, get ready to indulge yourself in some mind-blowing real-life tales!

1. The Social Network:

Have you ever wondered how Facebook became a tech giant and one of the most prominent social networking sites on the internet? Well, The Social Network is here to answer all your questions.

The events followed in the movie are based on truth and are narrated by a pack of renowned actors. Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, Justin Timberlake, and Dakota Johnson, what could be better than this?

The Social Network showcases Facebook’s emergence story and tells about Mark’s life and upbringing. It’s almost endearing to think how a 19-year-old boy started a social media company whose current net worth is about $320 billion.

The movie has won several awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Writing and Music. Don’t miss out on this movie, as it is one of the best movies of this century.

• Release Date: November 10, 2010
• Cast: Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, Armie Hammer, Tyler Winklevoss
• Directors: David Fincher
• Earnings: $224 Million
• Platform: Netflix

2. Zodiac:

Imagine yourself in the 1960s, where a notorious serial killer Zodiac is on the run. Sounds intriguing, right? Zodiac is a crime thriller movie with a legendary cast of Robert Downey Jr., Jake Gyllenhaal, and Mark Ruffalo.

David Fincher directed the film in such a way that Zodiac will indulge you in its mystery, suspense, and terror. Undoubtedly, it is a masterpiece that showcases the wild and unknown world of the Zodiac Killings.

The dark and moody atmosphere will send shivers down your spine for sure. Not to mention its broad-daylight murder scene that will haunt you for several days. Both the viewers and critics highly appreciated Zodiac upon its release.

It still holds an important place in its viewers’ hearts as one of the most remarkable true crime adaptations. Moreover, in 2016, Zodiac was listed on the BBC’s list of the best movies of this century.

• Release Date: July 20, 2007
• Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, Robert Downey jr., Anthony Edwards
• Director: David Fincher
• Earning: $84.7 million
• Platform: Netflix

3. Spotlight:

Admit it, the world of journalism on screen is often inaccurately portrayed. However, Spotlight stands out as a rare gem in cinema. It depicts the story of a high-level newspaper reporting.

Directed by Tom McCarthy, the oscar-winning movie will take you on a journey to Boston Globe’s investigative team. You will learn how they take tackled controversies and the heart-wrenching topic of child abuse within the catholic church.

The movie features Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, and many other talented actors. With their phenomenal acting and gripping storyline, Spotlight narrates a topic left unheard for many years. It’s no wonder the movie was loved by audiences and critics globally.

Not to mention that it won two Academy Awards for Best Picture. So if you want to know more about this incredible story of bravery and justice, Spotlight must be on your movie wishlist.

• Release Date: September 3, 2015
• Cast: Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams
• Director: Tom McCarthy
• Earning: $98.7 million
• Platform: Amazon Prime

4. Schindler’s List:

Schindler’s list, directed by Steven Spielberg, is one of the few movies to win 7 Academy Awards. Based on actual events, the movie narrates the story of Oskar Shindler. During World War 2, he saved thousands of Jewish refugees.

To justify the gravity and depth of the story, the movie was shot in black and white. The movie features Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, and Ralph Fiennes. Schindler’s List was even titled the most inspiring movie ever by the American Film Institute.

Spielberg expressed his thought behind making the movie: “We’re not making a film, we’re making a documentary.” Schindler’s List is a testament to the willpower of an individual to make a difference.

Its timeless message of hope and resilience continues to motivate millions to date. In short, Schindler’s list is not just a movie but also an accurate portrayal of the Holocaust that encouraged many survivors to share their stories with the public.

• Release Date: February 4, 1994
• Cast: Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes, Embeth Davidtz
• Directors: Steven Spielberg
• Earnings: $322 million
• Platform: Netflix

5. The Wolf Of Wall Street:

If you are an investor or know about the US stock market, you must have heard about Jordan Belfort. Some call him a genius, while some call him a fraud and criminal.

Starring the legendary actor Leanardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, and Margot Robbie, The movie received mixed reviews from critics. However, it was a huge blockbuster and collected over $400 million.

Unlike biopics, where the story diverts from actual events to spice up the movie, Belfort praised the film for its accurate portrayal of his life. The Wolf Of Wall Street will take you on a roller coaster ride of entertainment and thrill. Moreover, it will force you to question your morals with its mind-bending storyline.

• Release Date: January 3, 2014
• Cast: Leanardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie, Matthew McConaughey
• Directors: Martin Scorsese
• Earnings: $406 million
• Platform: Amazon Prime Video

6. 12 Years a Slave:

Emark yourself on an unforgettable journey with 12 Years a Slave. It is a powerful movie that narrates the story of Solomon Northup. The African-American man gets kidnapped and sold into slavery for over a decade.

The heart-wrenching story of his struggle and rescue will undoubtedly impact you. With Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyongo, and more as the lead star cast, the movie has won over 140 awards. Unbelievable, right?

Steve McQueen directed the movie with his phenomenal storytelling skills. The film strikes a balance between realism and emotions, making it one of the best movies ever.

It won three Oscars for Best Picture, Best Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actress. In short, 12 Years a Slave is a must-watch movie if you love history and drama.

• Release Date: January 13, 2014
• Cast: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyongo, Paul Dano
• Directors: Steve McQueen
• Earnings: $187 million
• Platform: Amazon Prime Video

7. Goodfellas:

Goodfellas is a crime-thriller movie that will take you on a journey through the life of Henry Hill.

You will learn about his life in the mafia world and the terror of the underworld. With a phenomenal star cast of Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, and Samuel L. Jackson, Goodfellas is one of the most iconic movies of our generation. The crime epic explores the gritty details of Henry’s life and his downfall.

The movie won numerous awards and was heavily appreciated across the globe. Therefore, it cemented its position as a classic in the crime movie genre. The unflinching portrayal of the Mafia world will tell you about the messy, bitter, and far from glamorous part of gangsters.

Not only Hill, but you will also get to know about DeSimone and Burke. Moreover, it showcases the infamous 1978 Lufthansa heist at JFK Airport. In short, Goodfellas is a retro classic that demystifies the Mafia and leaves a lasting impression.

• Release Date: September 19, 1990
• Cast: Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci, Samuel L. Jackson
• Directors: Martin Scorsese
• Earnings: $47 million
• Platform: Apple TV

8. Dunkirk:

Do you want to relive the incredible events of Operation Dynamo with Dunkirk? Look no further, as Dunkirk will indulge you in its war atmosphere. Not to mention that Christopher Nolan, the legendary director of movies like Inception and Interstellar, directed the film.

Its fresh and talented star cast introduces new faces to the industry. Nolan is known for his action sequences and believes in practical effects rather than CGI or VFX. Therefore, once again, Nolan accurately depicts the World War 2 theme and captivates audiences with its portrayal.

Talking about awards, it has won three Academy Awards, solidifying Nolan’s status as a legendary director. Dunkirk will provide you with an intense experience of the battle of Dunkirk like never before.

Nolan’s signature style of manipulating time and chronology captures the essence of the fight and the depth of the story perfectly.

• Release Date: July 19, 2017
• Cast: Tom Hardy, Harry Styles, Fionn Whitehead, Cillian Murphy
• Directors: Christopher Nolan
• Earnings: $527 million
• Platform: Amazon Prime Video

9. Catch Me If You Can:

Set yourself on a wild ride once again with Leonardo DiCaprio as he takes on the screen as Frank Abagnale. His 2003 crime drama movie Catch Me If You Can is considered one of the greatest films of Leanardo DiCaprio’s career.

His character Frank is truly a master of deception as he pulls off million-dollar cons as various professionals, including Pilot. Further, the story revolves around FBI agent Carl Hanratty’s pursuit to catch Frank.

Tom Hanks, the legendary actor, plays the role of Carl Hanratty. The iconic duo of Tom and Leanardo will keep you gripped to your couch with their spectacular acting.

Along with them, you will see Christopher Walken, Martin Sheen, James Brolin, and more as the supporting cast. Catch Me if You Can is anything but dull.

Whenever Carl comes one step closer to Frank, he outshines Carl every time and manages to escape somehow. The iconic scene of Frank’s escape from a flying airplane while handcuffed continues to amaze audiences to date.

Therefore, it is no wonder that Catch Me If You Can have won numerous awards and audience acclaim globally. So, sit back and enjoy this classic story couldn’t have been possible without Steven Spielberg behind the camera.

And, when you thought the story couldn’t get any weirder, the real-life Frank, who was once a fugitive, is now a reputed security consultant. Who would have thought that?

• Release Date: December 25, 2002
• Cast: Tom Hanks, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christopher Walken, Martin Sheen
• Directors: Steven Spielberg
• Earnings: $352 million
• Platform: Netflix

10. All The President’s Men:

Set yourself on a thrilling journey through one of American history’s most infamous political scandals. Yes, you guessed right, we are talking about the Watergate Scandal. All The President’s Men features some renowned actors, including Dustin Hoffman and Robert Redford.

As the two delve into the Watergate scandal’s depth, you will know the minute details about it most engagingly.

The movie is based on the book of the same name by Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward. Its story will take you behind the scenes of the Watergate scandal. The movie remains true to its roots and accurately depicts the 1970s era.

All The President’s Man focuses on the investigation without any fictional deviation. The result? A masterpiece, biographical movie that accurately narrates the whole Watergate scandal.

• Release Date: April 15, 1976
• Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, Jason Robards, Jack Warden
• Directors: Alan J. Pakula
• Earnings: $70 million
• Platform: Amazon Prime Video

Conclusion:

Embark on an unforgettable journey with truth-based cinema! These top 10 Movies Based on True Stories, handpicked for you, will take you on a rollercoaster ride through history, crime, and real-life events. From inspiring historical tales to true crime stories, these films offer a unique blend of education and entertainment.

From “The Social Network” to “Schindler’s List,” each movie on this list is highly rated and praised by audiences and critics alike. If you like movies about journalism, watch Spotlight. And solve the mystery of the Zodiac killings with “Zodiac.”

This list is a perfect blend of drama, history, and thrilling tales, all waiting for you to stream or rent. So pop some popcorn, and get ready for an exciting ride through these iconic movies!