Films depicting real-life incidents continue to captivate audiences the world over, often finding themselves in the running for theatrical accolades such as the coveted Academy Awards. Coupled with the growing fascination for true crime narratives, cinematic recreations of harrowing events and multifaceted lawbreakers have been drawing mounting fanbases. Indeed, real world scenarios can serve as excellent bases for exploring the nuanced dimensions of human nature, ranging from narratives highlighting perseverance and resilience, to unsettling portrayals of unparalleled transgressions.
In this context, it’s worth noting the Lorene Scafaria’s critically acclaimed film from 2019, titled ‘Hustlers.’ The narrative is inspired by a 2015 article penned by Jessica Pressler for New York Magazine, featuring the journeys of exotic dancers navigating their lives and livelihoods amidst the 2009 Wall Street meltdown. Another riveting portrayal is ‘Society of the Snow,’ a tale that is, at times, unsettlingly graphic, yet underscores the indomitable power of hope.
‘Hidden Figures’ is another cinematic masterpiece that honors the untold narrative of the indispensable contributions of three African-American woman mathematicians to NASA during the historic ‘Space Race’ in the 1960s. This awe-inspiring story brings Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson to the forefront, highlighting their significant contributions in a male-dominated field.
The motivational life story of Diana Nyad, as shared in ‘Nyad,’ takes the audience along for a swim with this long-distance swimming champion. Nyad stands out as the first person to complete the swim from Cuba to Florida without the protection of a shark cage at the age of 64, showcasing an impressive feat of endurance and grit.
In the film ‘Erin Brockovich’, the protagonist, played by Julia Roberts, unearths evidence of Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) contaminating the water supply in Hinkley, California, leading to adverse health effects among the local population. Through relentless legal endeavours, Brockovich ensures justice, paving the way for one of the largest direct-action litigations in U.S. history.
Moving towards more shocking true stories, ‘The Act,’ featuring Joey King and Patricia Arquette, traces the tragic true-life narrative of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother, Dee Dee. The latter’s Munchausen syndrome by proxy led to fabricated illnesses that would attract sympathy and financial support for her child.
The unique sports scandal involving figure skater Tonya Harding is artistically portrayed in ‘I, Tonya,’ a film characterized by its intricate mix of dark humor and mockumentary style. Another fascinating tale that delves into the glamorous yet treacherous world of clandestine poker is ‘Molly’s Game’, where Bloom’s voyage into the abyss of illicit gambling operations eventually garners the unwanted attention of the FBI.
‘Selma’, is a film revered for its intensely authentic and awe-inspiring representation of the later years of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.’s life. At the same time, ‘Spotlight’ takes the audience on a thrilling ride with the Boston Globe’s investigative journalism team, uncloaking a scandal involving the Catholic Church’s cover-up of widespread child sexual abuse by priests.
In the biographical journey, ‘Walk the Line,’ Joaquin Phoenix delivers a stunning performance as the legendary singer Johnny Cash. On another note, ‘The Dropout’ explores the riveting tale of Elizabeth Holmes’ meteoric rise and subsequent crash in the biotech industry, with Amanda Seyfried taking on the role of Holmes in the series.
Adapted from the bestseller memoir of the same name by Cheryl Strayed, ‘Wild’ traces her struggle with addiction and depression following her mother’s demise. Strayed embarks on a soul-searching journey, hiking over 1,000 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail in solitude, without any prior trekking experience.
Finally, the internationally successful ‘The Social Network’ reimagines the genesis of Facebook and the consequent birth of social media, presenting a view into Mark Zuckerberg’s university years. Jesse Eisenberg’s phenomenal portrayal of Zuckerberg encapsulates the spirit of the digital revolution. Lastly, the film ‘Can You Ever Forgive Me?’ reveals the remarkable true story of author Lee Israel’s ill-famed misdemeanor, splendidly performed by Melissa McCarthy.