The 5 Most Remarkable Movies Based on True Stories

When it comes to movies claiming to be "based on a true story," a fair dose of skepticism is warranted. Often, filmmakers take a small nugget of truth and stretch it to its limits. Nevertheless, these narrative films, despite not being documentaries, occasionally require some artistic license to create stories that captivate audiences. Here are five exceptional movies that successfully adapted true events into compelling cinematic experiences. SSP prepared.

1. Hustlers (2019)

Hustlers, directed by Lorene Scafaria, delves into the world of New York strip clubs during the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. Based on a New York magazine article, the film follows a group of dancers who, amidst economic hardships, resort to drugging their Wall Street patrons and running up their credit cards. With a visual energy reminiscent of Scorsese and '90s rap videos, Scafaria brings this story to life. And, capturing accolades, Jennifer Lopez shines as the crew's magnetic ringleader.

2. Argo (2012)

Some stories are so extraordinary that they almost seem too far-fetched for real life. Argo narrates the CIA's audacious plan during the 1979 Iranian Revolution to smuggle six diplomats out of the country by masking their identities as a Canadian film crew shooting a fake sci-fi flick. This gripping film, directed by Ben Affleck, combines heist-film tension with '70s-style grit, resulting in a smart and taut thriller. Argo won the well-deserved Oscar for Best Picture, although Affleck was unjustly snubbed for Best Director.

3. Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)

Can You Ever Forgive Me? tells the story of writer Lee Israel, portrayed by the remarkable Melissa McCarthy. In the early '90s, Israel's career as a celebrity biographer stumbles, leading her to forge literary letters to make ends meet. McCarthy's performance infuses Israel with unexpected depth and sympathy, showcasing her complex character without sacrificing her inherent prickliness. This film, based on Israel's memoir, highlights the allure of deceit and the world's fascination with exceptional liars.

4. Zola (2021)

Social media saturation eventually birthed a motion picture based on a viral Twitter thread. Zola takes inspiration from stripper Aziah King's tweetstorm recounting her ill-fated trip to Florida in 2015 (though the movie focuses on the Rolling Stone article that investigates her story). Under the direction of Janicza Bravo, Zola becomes a darkly comedic tale entangled with sex, drugs, pimps, and guns. With echoes of Spring Breakers and The Bling Ring, this film amplifies lurid stories of the morally adrift younger generation.

5. Hunger (2008)

Director Steve McQueen delivers a haunting depiction of an IRA member's fatal hunger strike in Hunger. Set in Northern Ireland's Maze Prison during the five-year 'no-wash protest,' the movie centers around Bobby Sands, portrayed with striking commitment by Michael Fassbender. McQueen immersed himself in extensive research concerning this turbulent period, resulting in a visually meticulous and emotionally resonant portrayal of the brink of existence within a literal hell.

Overall, these five films demonstrate the power of storytelling when coupled with real-life inspiration. 

Earlier SSP told about the most hilarious comedy movies of 2024.