Biopic movies are films that portray the life story of a real person or historical figure. These movies often highlight key moments in the subject’s life, as well as their accomplishments, struggles, and relationships.

Biopics can cover a wide range of subjects, from famous artists and musicians to political leaders and activists.

Biopic movies have become increasingly popular over the years, and many have received critical acclaim and awards recognition.

They offer audiences a glimpse into the lives of real people who have had a significant impact on history, culture, and society.

Best Biopic Movies

Through these films, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the subject’s motivations, challenges, and accomplishments, and appreciate their contributions to the world.

1. Amadeus (1984)

Amadeus is a 1984 biographical drama film directed by Miloš Forman and starring F. Murray Abraham and Tom Hulce.

The film tells the story of the life and rivalry between Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri, a court composer in Vienna.

Amadeus is noted for its stunning musical score, its lavish period sets and costumes, and its exploration of the relationship between artistic genius and envy.

The film is praised for its powerful performances by the cast, particularly Abraham’s portrayal of Salieri, and its use of Mozart’s music to evoke a sense of both beauty and madness.

Amadeus was a critical and commercial success, winning eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Forman, and Best Actor for Abraham.

The film is seen as a masterpiece of historical drama, and is regarded as one of the greatest films ever made about classical music and the creative process.

Amadeus (Director's Cut)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • F. Murray Abraham, Tom Hulce, Elizabeth Berridge (Actors)
  • Milos Forman (Director) - Peter Shaffer (Writer) - Saul Zaentz (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

2. Gandhi (1982)

Gandhi is a biographical drama film directed by Richard Attenborough and released in 1982. The film tells the story of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, an Indian lawyer and political activist.

who led India’s non-violent, civil disobedience movement against British colonial rule and became one of the most revered and influential figures in modern history.

   

The film stars Ben Kingsley in the title role of Gandhi, and follows his journey from his early years in South Africa, where he fought against racial discrimination, to his leadership of India’s independence movement, and his eventual assassination in 1948.

Gandhi was praised for its epic scope, powerful performances, and its ability to capture the complex personality and ideology of the man himself. The film also received critical acclaim for its exploration of themes such as nonviolence, civil rights, and the struggle for freedom.

Gandhi was a commercial success and won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Kingsley. The film is considered a classic of modern cinema, and remains one of the most influential and inspiring biographical films ever made.

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Gandhi (Collector's Edition)
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Ben Kingsley, Candice Bergen, Edward Fox (Actors)
  • Richard Attenborough (Director) - Richard Attenborough (Producer)
  • English, Spanish, Portuguese, Korean (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

3. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

“Lawrence of Arabia” is a 1962 epic historical drama film directed by David Lean and starring Peter O’Toole, Alec Guinness, and Anthony Quinn.

The film is loosely based on the life of T. E. Lawrence, a British army officer who played a key role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I.

The movie follows Lawrence as he travels to Arabia and becomes involved with the local tribes in their fight for independence against the Ottoman Turks.

Along the way, Lawrence must navigate the complicated politics of the region and his own conflicting allegiances, as he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the war and its consequences.

   

“Lawrence of Arabia” is widely regarded as a masterpiece of filmmaking, known for its stunning cinematography, epic scope, and powerful performances.

The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for David Lean, and Best Actor for Peter O’Toole. It remains a classic of the historical epic genre and a must-see for fans of cinema.

Lawrence of Arabia
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Peter O'Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn (Actors)
  • David Lean (Director) - Sam Spiegel (Producer)
  • Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

4. Malcolm X (1992)

“Malcolm X” is a biographical drama film directed by Spike Lee and released in 1992. The film is based on the life of African-American activist Malcolm X, from his early years as a street hustler to his transformation into a powerful leader and spokesman for the Nation of Islam.

The film stars Denzel Washington in the lead role and follows Malcolm X’s journey as he confronts racism, injustice, and oppression, both in his personal life and in his activism.

The film also explores Malcolm X’s relationship with the Nation of Islam and its leader Elijah Muhammad, as well as his eventual break from the organization and his spiritual transformation.

“Malcolm X” is known for its powerful performances, stunning cinematography, and nuanced exploration of themes related to race, identity, and social justice.

The film is also notable for its historical accuracy and attention to detail, with Spike Lee and his team conducting extensive research and consulting with Malcolm X’s family and associates to ensure authenticity.

Overall, “Malcolm X” is a compelling and thought-provoking biopic that offers a unique perspective on the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential and controversial civil rights leaders.

Malcolm X (1992)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Al Freeman, Jr. (Actors)
  • Spike Lee (Director) - Spike Lee (Writer) - Spike Lee (Producer)
  • English, Spanish, Portuguese (Playback Language)
  • English, Spanish, Portuguese (Subtitles)

5. Schindler’s List (1993)

Schindler’s List is a historical drama film directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1993. The film is based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved the lives of more than a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust.

The film is known for its powerful and emotional portrayal of the horrors of the Holocaust, and its depiction of the bravery and compassion of those who risked their lives to save others. The film is shot in black and white, adding to its stark and haunting portrayal of the atrocities of war.

Schindler’s List was praised by critics for its authentic and realistic portrayal of the Holocaust, as well as for the powerful performances of its cast, including Liam Neeson in the lead role.

   

The film won multiple awards, including seven Academy Awards, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

The themes of the film include the importance of empathy, compassion, and action in the face of evil and injustice, as well as the potential for humanity to overcome even the most harrowing circumstances.

Schindler’s List is a powerful and emotional film that provides a unique perspective on one of the darkest periods in human history.

Schindler's List
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Ben Kingsley, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes (Actors)
  • Steven Spielberg (Director) - Thomas Keneally (Writer) - Steven Spielberg (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

6. Raging Bull (1980)

Raging Bull is a 1980 biographical drama movie directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro as the troubled and violent boxer Jake LaMotta.

The movie tells the story of LaMotta’s rise to fame in the boxing world, his personal struggles with violence and jealousy, and his eventual downfall.

The movie is known for its powerful performances, especially from De Niro, who gained 60 pounds to play the older LaMotta in the later parts of the movie.

Raging Bull also features stunning cinematography and editing, with the boxing scenes shot in a unique and visceral style.

The movie was critically acclaimed upon its release and is now considered a masterpiece of cinema. It was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won two, including Best Actor for De Niro.

Raging Bull is a powerful exploration of the human condition, depicting the destructive forces of jealousy and violence, as well as the power of redemption and forgiveness.

It’s a movie that continues to resonate with audiences, and has earned its place as one of the greatest movies ever made.

Raging Bull
  • Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty, Joe Pesci (Actors)
  • Martin Scorsese (Director) - Jake LaMotta (Writer)
  • English, Spanish, French (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

7. Goodfellas (1990)

While “Goodfellas” is often regarded as a classic of the crime genre, it is not strictly a biopic as it does not portray a specific individual’s life story. However, it is based on the real-life events and experiences of Henry Hill, a former mobster turned FBI informant.

The film, directed by Martin Scorsese, follows Hill (played by Ray Liotta) as he rises through the ranks of the Italian-American mafia in New York City during the 1960s and 70s.

Alongside his associates Jimmy Conway (played by Robert De Niro) and Tommy DeVito (played by Joe Pesci), Hill becomes involved in various criminal activities, including robbery, extortion, and drug trafficking.

As the FBI begins to close in on them, Hill becomes increasingly paranoid and ultimately turns against his former associates in exchange for witness protection.

“Goodfellas” is known for its stylish direction, memorable performances, and vivid portrayal of the mafia underworld.

The film was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and has since become a classic of the crime genre and a landmark in Scorsese’s career.

GoodFellas
  • Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, Joe Pesci (Actors)
  • Martin Scorsese (Director) - Martin Scorsese (Writer)
  • English, Spanish, French (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

8. The King’s Speech (2010)

The King’s Speech is a 2010 historical drama film directed by Tom Hooper and starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter.

The film tells the story of King George VI of the United Kingdom, who suffers from a severe stammer, and his relationship with his speech therapist, Lionel Logue.

As he prepares to make a speech announcing Britain’s declaration of war against Germany in 1939.

The King’s Speech is noted for its powerful performances by the cast, particularly Firth’s portrayal of King George VI and Rush’s portrayal of Lionel Logue.

The film is praised for its historical accuracy, its exploration of themes such as the burden of royalty and the importance of communication, and its use of music to underscore the emotional resonance of the story.

The King’s Speech was a critical and commercial success, winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Hooper, and Best Actor for Firth.

The film is seen as a moving and inspirational tale of triumph over adversity, and is regarded as one of the greatest historical dramas ever made.

The King's Speech
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter (Actors)
  • Tom Hooper (Director) - David Seidler (Writer) - Iain Canning (Producer)
  • English, Spanish (Playback Languages)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)

9. Braveheart (1995)

Braveheart is a historical epic film directed by and starring Mel Gibson, released in 1995. The film tells the story of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who led the Scottish rebellion against the English during the late 13th century.

The film explores the historical events leading up to the Battle of Stirling Bridge, where Wallace and his army defeated the English forces led by King Edward I.

Along with the action-packed battle scenes, the film also depicts the complex political landscape of the time, with Scottish nobles divided on whether to support Wallace’s rebellion or to side with the English.

Braveheart was praised for its epic scope, stunning cinematography, and strong performances, particularly Gibson’s portrayal of William Wallace.

The film also won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Gibson.

Despite some criticisms of historical inaccuracies, Braveheart remains a beloved and iconic film, known for its inspiring portrayal of a lone warrior standing up against a powerful oppressor, and for its stirring depiction of Scottish national identity and pride.

Braveheart
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan (Actors)
  • Mel Gibson (Director) - Randall Wallace (Writer) - Mel Gibson (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

10. Patton (1970)

“Patton” is a 1970 biographical war film directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and starring George C. Scott in the titular role of General George S. Patton.

The movie follows Patton’s military career during World War II, from his victories in North Africa and Sicily to his controversial leadership during the Battle of the Bulge.

The film portrays Patton as a brilliant military strategist and a larger-than-life figure, but also delves into his personal and political struggles.

His outspokenness and lack of political correctness cause conflict with his superiors, and his obsession with glory and victory at any cost take a toll on his relationships with his subordinates.

“Patton” won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for George C. Scott’s iconic portrayal of Patton.

The movie is known for its stunning battle sequences and its vivid portrayal of one of the most influential and controversial figures in American military history.

Patton
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • George C. Scott, Karl Malden, Stephen Young (Actors)
  • Franklin J Schaffner (Director) - Francis Ford Coppola (Writer) - Frank McCarthy (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

11. Catch Me If You Can (2002)

“Catch Me If You Can” is a biographical crime film directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 2002.

The film is based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a con artist and check forger who posed as a Pan Am pilot, a doctor, and a lawyer, among other identities, and eluded capture by the FBI for several years in the 1960s.

The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Frank Abagnale Jr. and Tom Hanks as Carl Hanratty, the FBI agent tasked with capturing him. The film follows Abagnale Jr. as he engages in a series of daring scams and forgeries while constantly staying one step ahead of the law.

   

“Catch Me If You Can” is known for its stylish direction, engaging performances, and witty screenplay. The film explores themes related to identity, deception, and the American Dream, while also offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of white-collar crime.

Overall, “Catch Me If You Can” is a well-crafted and entertaining biopic that offers a compelling portrayal of a complex and charismatic figure in American criminal history.

Catch Me If You Can
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken (Actors)
  • Steven Spielberg (Director) - Stan Redding (Writer) - Barry Kemp (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

12. The Last Emperor (1987)

The Last Emperor is a historical drama film directed by Bernardo Bertolucci and released in 1987.

The film tells the story of Pu Yi, the last emperor of China, from his early childhood as the ruler of the Qing dynasty, through his life as a puppet emperor under the Japanese occupation, to his eventual transformation into a communist.

The film is known for its stunning visuals and cinematography, as well as its meticulous attention to detail in recreating the opulent and complex world of imperial China. The film also features a memorable score by composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, which won an Academy Award.

The Last Emperor won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of cinema. The film is noted for its exploration of themes such as power, privilege, and identity, as well as its exploration of the history and culture of China.

The Last Emperor is a compelling and emotionally powerful film that offers a unique perspective on the history of China and the life of its last emperor. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, culture, and the power of cinema to transport us to other times and places.

The Last Emperor
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • John Lone, Joan Chen, Peter O'Toole (Actors)
  • Bernardo Bertolucci (Director)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

13. Walk the Line (2005)

Walk the Line is a 2005 biographical drama movie directed by James Mangold, starring Joaquin Phoenix as the legendary country singer-songwriter Johnny Cash, and Reese Witherspoon as his wife, June Carter Cash.

The movie follows Cash’s early life, his rise to fame in the 1950s and 60s, his struggles with addiction, and his relationship with June.

The movie is known for its powerful performances, especially from Phoenix and Witherspoon, who both won Academy Awards for their roles. The movie also features a stellar soundtrack, with Phoenix performing all of Cash’s songs in the movie.

Walk the Line is a movie about the power of music to overcome adversity and to connect people. It’s a story about the triumph of the human spirit, as Johnny Cash overcomes his demons and finds redemption through his music and his love for June.

It’s a movie that celebrates the legacy of one of the greatest musicians of all time, and reminds us of the transformative power of music.

Walk The Line
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon, Dallas Roberts (Actors)
  • James Mangold (Director) - Gill Dennis (Writer) - James Keach (Producer)
  • French (Playback Languages)
  • French (Subtitle)

14. A Beautiful Mind (2001)

“A Beautiful Mind” is a biographical drama film released in 2001, directed by Ron Howard and starring Russell Crowe. The film tells the story of mathematician John Nash, who won the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1994 for his contributions to game theory.

The film follows Nash’s life from his time as a graduate student at Princeton University in the 1940s, where he develops his theories, to his struggles with schizophrenia and eventual recovery in the 1980s.

The film portrays Nash’s relationship with his wife Alicia (played by Jennifer Connelly), who stands by him throughout his illness and helps him to continue his work.

“A Beautiful Mind” was praised for its sensitive portrayal of mental illness, as well as its performances and direction. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and was a commercial success upon its release.

It has since become a classic of the biopic genre and a touching portrayal of a brilliant mind grappling with mental illness.

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A Beautiful Mind (Widescreen)(2001)
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Ed Harris (Actors)
  • Ron Howard (Director) - Akiva Goldsman (Writer) - Brian Grazer (Producer)
  • Spanish (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

15. The Social Network (2010)

The Social Network is a 2010 biographical drama film directed by David Fincher and starring Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, and Justin Timberlake. The film tells the story of the founding of the social networking website Facebook and the legal battles that followed its creation.

The Social Network is noted for its fast-paced dialogue, its exploration of the themes of entrepreneurship and betrayal, and its innovative use of split-screen techniques to show parallel storylines.

The film is praised for its strong performances by the cast, particularly Eisenberg’s portrayal of Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg, and its gripping narrative that captures the zeitgeist of the rise of social media.

The Social Network was a critical and commercial success, winning three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay for Aaron Sorkin.

The film is seen as a seminal work in the genre of biographical drama, and is regarded as one of the greatest films ever made about the culture of Silicon Valley and the power of innovation.

The Social Network
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jesse Eisenberg, Rooney Mara, Andrew Garfield (Actors)
  • David Fincher (Director) - Aaron Sorkin (Writer) - Kevin Spacey (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

16. The Pianist (2002)

The Pianist is a historical drama film directed by Roman Polanski and released in 2002. The film is based on the true story of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish Jewish pianist who survived the Holocaust during World War II.

The film follows Szpilman’s experiences in the Warsaw ghetto, where he witnessed the horrors of the Nazi occupation and the persecution of Jewish people. After escaping from the ghetto, Szpilman goes into hiding and is aided by non-Jewish Poles who risk their own lives to help him.

The Pianist was praised for its hauntingly realistic portrayal of the Holocaust and its effect on individual lives.

The film won numerous awards, including the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, and three Academy Awards, including Best Director for Polanski and Best Actor for Adrien Brody, who played Szpilman.

The Pianist is a powerful and deeply affecting film that shines a light on the horrors of the Holocaust and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable suffering.

The Pianist
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Adrien Brody, Emilia Fox, Michal Zebrowski (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Ronald Harwood (Writer) - Robert Benmussa (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

17. Capote (2005)

“Capote” is a 2005 biographical film directed by Bennett Miller and starring Philip Seymour Hoffman in the titular role of writer Truman Capote. The movie focuses on Capote’s research for his groundbreaking book “In Cold Blood”, which chronicles the brutal murder of a Kansas family and the subsequent investigation and trial.

As Capote becomes more and more involved with the case, he forms a relationship with one of the murderers, Perry Smith, and begins to blur the line between journalist and friend.

The film explores Capote’s own inner turmoil as he struggles to balance his professional ambitions with his personal feelings towards Smith.

Hoffman’s performance in “Capote” is widely regarded as one of the best of his career, earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

The movie also received critical acclaim for its nuanced and insightful portrayal of Capote and his work, as well as its exploration of the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by journalists and writers in pursuit of their craft.

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Capote
  • CAPOTE MOVIE
  • Philip Seymour Hoffman, Catherine Keener, Craig Archibald (Actors)
  • Bennett Miller (Director)
  • English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Chinese (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

18. Lincoln (2012)

“Lincoln” is a historical drama film directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 2012. The film focuses on the final months of President Abraham Lincoln’s life and his efforts to pass the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery in the United States.

The film stars Daniel Day-Lewis in the lead role as Lincoln, with an ensemble cast that includes Sally Field, David Strathairn, and Tommy Lee Jones.

The film is known for its attention to historical detail, including its depiction of the political machinations and backroom deals that were necessary to secure passage of the amendment.

“Lincoln” is also notable for its exploration of themes related to leadership, compromise, and the power of language.

The film highlights Lincoln’s extraordinary ability to communicate with people from all walks of life and to inspire them to work together toward a common goal.

Overall, “Lincoln” is a powerful and insightful biopic that offers a unique perspective on one of the most important figures in American history. The film is both a tribute to Lincoln’s legacy and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in the United States.

Lincoln
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn (Actors)
  • Steven Spielberg (Director) - Tony Kushner (Writer) - Steven Spielberg (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

19. The Aviator (2004)

The Aviator is a biographical drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and released in 2004.

The film tells the story of the legendary American aviator and film producer Howard Hughes, from his early days as a film director and aviation enthusiast, to his rise as a business magnate and his eventual descent into mental illness.

The film is known for its stunning visuals and attention to detail in recreating the glamorous world of Hollywood in the 1920s and 1930s.

The film features outstanding performances by its cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio in the lead role, as well as Cate Blanchett, Kate Beckinsale, and Alec Baldwin.

The Aviator was nominated for eleven Academy Awards and won five, including Best Supporting Actress for Blanchett’s portrayal of Katharine Hepburn.

The film is noted for its exploration of themes such as ambition, creativity, and the price of success, as well as its depiction of Hughes’ struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder and his eventual decline into reclusiveness and paranoia.

The Aviator is a compelling and thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on the history of Hollywood and the life of one of its most iconic figures. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of film, aviation, and American culture.

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The Aviator (2004)
  • DVD
  • AC-3, Closed-captioned, Color
  • English (Subtitled), Spanish (Subtitled), French (Subtitled)
  • 2
  • 170

20. Notorious (2009)

Notorious is a 2009 biographical drama movie directed by George Tillman Jr., starring Jamal Woolard as the legendary rapper Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G.

The movie follows Wallace’s rise to fame in the 1990s as one of the most influential rappers of all time, as well as his struggles with the law, his relationships, and his untimely death.

The movie is known for its powerful performances, especially from Woolard, who delivers a standout performance as Wallace.

The movie also features a stellar supporting cast, including Angela Bassett as Wallace’s mother and Derek Luke as his friend and fellow rapper, Sean Combs.

Notorious is a movie that celebrates the life and legacy of one of the greatest rappers of all time. It’s a story about the power of music to inspire and transform, and the impact that one person can have on an entire generation.

Notorious is a must-watch for any fan of hip-hop or music in general, and serves as a fitting tribute to the life and career of The Notorious B.I.G.

Notorious
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Angela Bassett, Derek Luke, Jamal Woolard (Actors)
  • George Tillman Jr. (Director) - Reggie Rock Bythewood (Writer) - Voletta Wallace (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

21. Ed Wood (1994)

“Ed Wood” is a biographical comedy-drama film released in 1994, directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp. The film tells the story of filmmaker Ed Wood, known for his low-budget and often critically panned films in the 1950s and 60s.

The film portrays Wood’s life from his early days as a struggling filmmaker in Hollywood, to his friendship with actor Bela Lugosi (played by Martin Landau), and his eventual fall from grace.

Despite facing constant rejection from studios and critics, Wood remains passionate about his work and continues to make films with his loyal group of collaborators.

“Ed Wood” is known for its affectionate portrayal of the titular character and his offbeat films, as well as the standout performance by Martin Landau, who won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Lugosi.

The film was praised for its blend of comedy and drama, and for its exploration of the relationship between art and commercial success. It has since become a cult classic and a beloved entry in Tim Burton’s filmography.

Ed Wood
  • English, Spanish, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish (Subtitles)

22. The Elephant Man (1980)

The Elephant Man is a 1980 biographical drama film directed by David Lynch and starring John Hurt, Anthony Hopkins, and Anne Bancroft.

The film tells the story of Joseph Merrick, a severely deformed man in Victorian London who is mistreated and exploited until he is taken in by a kind doctor named Frederick Treves.

The Elephant Man is noted for its stunning black-and-white cinematography, its use of make-up effects to transform Hurt into Merrick, and its exploration of themes such as beauty, identity, and empathy.

The film is praised for its powerful performances by the cast, particularly Hurt’s portrayal of Merrick, and its poignant and tragic story that speaks to the human condition.

The Elephant Man was a critical and commercial success, earning eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director for Lynch, and Best Actor for Hurt.

The film is seen as a masterpiece of historical drama, and is regarded as one of the greatest films ever made about disability, kindness, and the search for human connection.

The Elephant Man (1980)
  • Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt (Actors)
  • David Lynch (Director)
  • English, Korean (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

23. The Imitation Game (2014)

The Imitation Game is a biographical drama film released in 2014, directed by Morten Tyldum and starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley.

The film tells the story of Alan Turing, a brilliant British mathematician and computer scientist, who played a critical role in cracking Nazi Germany’s Enigma code during World War II.

The film depicts Turing’s struggles with his sexuality, his difficult personality, and his strained relationships with colleagues and authorities.

Despite the challenges he faced, Turing made significant contributions to the war effort, and his work on breaking the Enigma code is considered to have helped shorten the war by two years.

The Imitation Game was praised for its engaging storytelling, powerful performances, and accurate historical representation of Turing’s life and work.

The film won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, and was a critical and commercial success.

Overall, The Imitation Game is a moving and thought-provoking film that highlights the achievements of a brilliant but often overlooked historical figure and sheds light on the complexities of human identity and relationships.

The Imitation Game
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode (Actors)
  • Morten Tyldum (Director) - Graham Moore (Writer) - Nora Grossman (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

24. Chaplin (1992)

“Chaplin” is a 1992 biographical comedy-drama film directed by Richard Attenborough and starring Robert Downey Jr. as the legendary silent film comedian Charlie Chaplin.

The movie follows Chaplin’s rise to fame in the early days of Hollywood, from his beginnings as a struggling vaudeville performer to his worldwide success as the star of films such as “The Kid”, “City Lights”, and “Modern Times”.

The film also explores Chaplin’s personal life, including his tumultuous relationships with women and his political activism during the McCarthy era.

Downey’s performance in “Chaplin” was widely praised for its depth and authenticity, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

The movie offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of one of the most influential figures in the history of cinema, and explores the complex and often troubled relationships between art, politics, and personal life.

It remains a must-see for fans of Chaplin and of classic Hollywood cinema.

25. The Theory of Everything (2014)

“The Theory of Everything” is a biographical drama film directed by James Marsh and released in 2014.

The film is based on the memoir “Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen” by Jane Wilde Hawking, and tells the story of the early life and career of physicist Stephen Hawking, as well as his relationship with Jane.

The film stars Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking and Felicity Jones as Jane Wilde, with a supporting cast that includes Charlie Cox, Emily Watson, and David Thewlis.

The film explores Hawking’s struggles with motor neuron disease and his groundbreaking contributions to theoretical physics, as well as his marriage to Jane and the challenges they faced as a couple.

“The Theory of Everything” is known for its powerful performances, particularly by Redmayne, who won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Hawking.

The film also received critical acclaim for its nuanced and sensitive portrayal of the Hawking family, as well as its exploration of themes related to love, perseverance, and the nature of the universe.

Overall, “The Theory of Everything” is a moving and inspiring biopic that offers a poignant look at the life of one of the most influential scientists of the modern era.

The film is both a celebration of Hawking’s achievements and a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

The Theory of Everything
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, Charlie Cox (Actors)
  • James Marsh (Director) - Anthony McCarten (Writer) - Tim Bevan (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

3 Characteristics of Biopic Movies

Based on Real People and Events: Biopic movies are typically based on the life of a real person or group of people, and are often inspired by true events.

They are intended to provide an accurate portrayal of the subject’s life, and to explore the important events and themes that shaped their story.

Depiction of Historical Periods: Biopic movies often focus on a particular historical period, and aim to recreate the atmosphere and culture of that time.

They may include period costumes, music, and set design, in order to transport the viewer back in time and create a sense of authenticity.

Exploration of Personal Struggles: Biopic movies often delve deep into the personal struggles and challenges faced by their subjects, and aim to provide insight into their motivations, fears, and desires.

These struggles may include overcoming personal obstacles, facing discrimination, or dealing with mental health issues, among other things. Biopics aim to provide a window into the human experience and offer a unique perspective on the lives of their subjects.

3 Reasons To Watch Biopic Movies

Inspiring and educational: Biopic movies are based on the true stories of real people, often highlighting their struggles, achievements, and the lessons they learned along the way.

These movies can be incredibly inspiring and educational, showing us how ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things through hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

Portrayal of real-life characters: Biopic movies often provide a glimpse into the lives of real people, giving us a chance to learn about their personalities, motivations, and the events that shaped their lives.

Watching a biopic can be a way to get to know the real-life characters behind the stories we have heard or read about.

Talented actors: Biopic movies often attract some of the most talented actors in the industry, who are eager to take on the challenge of portraying real-life characters.

These actors can bring a sense of authenticity and depth to their roles, bringing the characters to life and making the stories more engaging and emotionally resonant.

Best Biopic Movies – Wrap Up

In conclusion, biopic movies provide a glimpse into the lives of real people, giving us insight into their struggles, triumphs, and legacies. The best biopic films are able to capture the essence of their subjects and tell their stories with honesty and compassion.

We’ve explored a range of biopic movies across different genres, from music icons like “Ray” and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” to inspiring figures like “Erin Brockovich” and “Schindler’s List.”

Each of these films offered a unique perspective on the lives of their subjects, and were able to engage and move audiences with their storytelling and performances.

Ultimately, the best biopic films are able to not only inform us about the lives of notable figures, but also inspire us to learn more, and to carry on their legacies through our own lives.