The Best Movies About Real People That Premiered During the Last Few Years

Biographical movies are more popular than ever, giving viewers a detailed look into the lives of fascinating people from history, music, sports, and beyond. These films combine careful research with compelling storytelling to show both the challenges and triumphs of their subjects. The movies listed below offer a glimpse into the real lives of remarkable individuals, and each one stands out for its realistic characters and commitment to historical truth.

‘Oppenheimer’ (2023)

The movie tells the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, a brilliant physicist who was central to the Manhattan Project. It shows the scientific hurdles and difficult ethical questions faced by the team creating the atomic bomb at Los Alamos. The film also looks at a 1954 hearing where the government questioned Oppenheimer’s past relationships and political beliefs. Ultimately, it highlights both the power of scientific breakthroughs and the long-lasting effects of nuclear weapons on the world.

‘Maestro’ (2023)

This movie tells the life story of Leonard Bernstein, the famous American composer and conductor, with a strong focus on his complicated relationship with his wife, Felicia Montealegre. The film follows Bernstein’s journey to success and his impact on both classical music and Broadway, while also exploring the contrast between his public image and his personal battles with identity and faithfulness. The filmmakers use different visual approaches to represent the various stages of the couple’s life.

‘Priscilla’ (2023)

Sofia Coppola’s film tells the story of Priscilla Presley and her life with Elvis Presley. Based on Priscilla’s own memoir, it follows her journey from her teenage years in Germany to living at Graceland. The movie explores the complicated power balance in their marriage and the loneliness Priscilla felt living in the spotlight with a world-famous singer. Ultimately, it’s a story about her coming of age and finding her own independence.

‘The Iron Claw’ (2023)

This movie tells the heartbreaking true story of the Von Erich family, a famous wrestling dynasty that rose to prominence in the 1980s. It centers on Kevin Von Erich and his brothers, and the overwhelming pressure put on them by their father, Fritz. The film details the series of personal tragedies and early deaths that haunted the family, giving rise to the idea of a “Von Erich curse.” It’s a powerful drama that shows the physical and emotional challenges of professional wrestling, as well as the strong connection between brothers.

‘Napoleon’ (2023)

This film tells the story of Napoleon Bonaparte, the French Emperor, from his early successes to his ultimate defeat. It showcases his incredible skills as a military strategist and his relentless drive for power. The movie delves into his famous victories, like the Battle of Austerlitz, as well as his devastating failures, such as the invasion of Russia, and explores his complicated personal life with his wife, Joséphine. Ultimately, the film presents Napoleon as a brilliant but deeply flawed leader.

‘Nyad’ (2023)

This movie tells the inspiring true story of Diana Nyad, who at 64 tried to become the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a protective cage. It highlights her intense training and the constant encouragement from her lifelong friend and coach, Bonnie Stoll. The film shows the immense physical difficulties of the 110-mile swim, including dangerous jellyfish and changing weather conditions. Ultimately, it’s a story about never giving up on your dreams, no matter how old you are.

‘Rustin’ (2023)

This movie tells the story of Bayard Rustin, the brilliant activist behind the 1963 March on Washington. It shows the difficulties he faced as a Black gay man working for civil rights, and how he skillfully managed the massive logistical challenges and political resistance to organize one of the biggest peaceful protests in American history. The film celebrates his dedication to equality and his important partnership with Martin Luther King Jr.

‘Ferrari’ (2023)

The movie takes place in the summer of 1957 and centers on a difficult time in the life of Enzo Ferrari, the man behind the famous Italian car company. His business is on the verge of collapse, and he’s still grieving the loss of his son. To save Ferrari, Enzo risks everything by entering his racing team in the Mille Miglia – a dangerous, thousand-mile race through Italy. The film shows the intense pressure of building racing cars and the personal costs of achieving success.

‘Elvis’ (2022)

This movie tells the story of Elvis Presley’s life and career, focusing on his complicated relationship with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker. It shows how Elvis quickly became famous, how much he influenced American culture, and how his career evolved over more than two decades, from his early shows to his performances in Las Vegas. The film uses a fast-paced and visually exciting style to capture the energy of Elvis’s performances.

‘Till’ (2022)

This powerful drama recounts the true story of Mamie Till-Mobley’s unwavering fight for justice after her 14-year-old son, Emmett Till, was tragically murdered in Mississippi in 1955. Despite her immense grief, Mamie bravely chose to hold an open-casket funeral, exposing the horrific reality of racial violence to the world. The film portrays her journey as she becomes a dedicated civil rights activist, determined to bring national awareness to Emmett’s case. It’s a moving look at a mother’s sorrow and the event that helped spark the modern Civil Rights Movement.

‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye’ (2021)

This movie tells the story of Tammy Faye Bakker, a televangelist who experienced a dramatic life. Along with her husband, Jim, she created a hugely popular religious broadcasting network and a Christian theme park in the 70s and 80s. The film looks at her distinctive style – known for her dramatic makeup and welcoming attitude – as well as the financial problems and personal hardships that ultimately brought down everything they built.

‘King Richard’ (2021)

This movie tells the true story of Richard Williams, the father who coached his daughters, Venus and Serena Williams, to become tennis superstars. It shows how he used unconventional training methods and a strong belief in their talent while raising them in Compton, California. The film depicts the challenges the family faced breaking into the competitive world of tennis, overcoming prejudice and doubt. Ultimately, it’s a story about the power of family and smart planning in reaching the highest levels of athletic achievement.

‘Spencer’ (2021)

The film takes place during Christmas at Sandringham, the Queen’s estate in Norfolk, and tells the story of Princess Diana’s decision to divorce Prince Charles. It focuses on her emotional turmoil and the restrictive environment of the royal family in the early 1990s. We see her trying to have normal moments and connect with her sons while facing constant attention from the public. The movie creates a tense and isolated mood to show how trapped she felt.

‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ (2021)

This film tells the story of Fred Hampton, a powerful leader in the Black Panther Party, and how he was betrayed by William O’Neal, an FBI informant. It shows Hampton’s work uniting different activist groups in Chicago into a broad coalition, and also delves into the struggles O’Neal faced as he secretly provided information to the government, ultimately contributing to a fatal police raid. The film offers a historical account of the FBI’s controversial tactics used against political activists during the late 1960s.

‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ (2021)

As a total movie buff, I recently saw this fantastic film, and it really stuck with me. It’s a musical biopic based on the stage show by the guy who created ‘Rent,’ Jonathan Larson. It basically follows him as a young, struggling composer in New York, working as a waiter while desperately trying to write something amazing. It’s incredibly relatable – you really feel his stress as he approaches 30 and the pressure to make it in such a tough business. It’s a beautiful story about chasing your dreams, the importance of friends, and realizing how quickly time passes.

‘Being the Ricardos’ (2021)

The film offers a glimpse behind the scenes of ‘I Love Lucy’ during a particularly challenging week of production. It centers on Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, exploring their working and personal lives as they navigate crises like damaging political accusations and sensational tabloid stories. The story reveals the creative energy and sharp business skills it took to make a successful 1950s sitcom, and it shows how complicated their relationship was both at work and at home.

‘House of Gucci’ (2021)

This film is based on the real-life story of the Gucci family and their fashion empire. It centers on Patrizia Reggiani, who married into the family and quickly became determined to have more power within the business. Her ambition causes conflict and betrayal, ultimately leading to a shocking crime and its aftermath. The movie examines the dangers of wealth, the pursuit of status, and how unchecked greed can destroy everything.

‘Respect’ (2021)

This movie tells the story of Aretha Franklin’s life, from her beginnings singing in her father’s church choir to becoming a world-famous star. It shows her journey to develop her unique sound and her dedication to the Civil Rights Movement. The film also looks at her important relationships with her father and first husband, and how they shaped her career. Ultimately, it’s a story about her strength and how she earned the title “Queen of Soul.”

‘Gran Turismo’ (2023)

This movie is based on the incredible true story of Jann Mardenborough, a young gamer who excelled at ‘Gran Turismo.’ His skills online led him to win competitions sponsored by Nissan, ultimately giving him the chance to become a real race car driver. The film shows his journey from playing the game to competing on racetracks around the world, the doubts he overcame from established racers, and the rigorous training needed to succeed in the sport. It’s a story about how gaming and professional racing can collide.

‘Tetris’ (2023)

The movie recounts the thrilling true story of Henk Rogers, who stumbled upon the game ‘Tetris’ in 1988 and put everything on the line to obtain the rights to distribute it worldwide. He journeyed to the Soviet Union near the end of the Cold War, searching for the game’s creator, Alexey Pajitnov. The film depicts the difficult negotiations with Soviet authorities and the competitive, often underhanded, tactics employed by various companies all hoping to secure the rights. It highlights the complicated legal and political challenges involved in launching one of the most beloved video games ever created.

‘Air’ (2023)

The movie tells the real story of how Nike pursued Michael Jordan early in his career to endorse a groundbreaking basketball shoe. It shows the challenges Nike faced with its basketball division and the unique approach they took to convince the Jordan family to partner with them. The film particularly emphasizes the important role Michael’s mother, Deloris Jordan, played in negotiating the deal that ultimately transformed sports marketing. It’s a look behind the scenes at the business of professional sports and the birth of the legendary Air Jordan brand.

‘Cassandro’ (2023)

The movie tells the story of Saúl Armendáriz, an openly gay wrestler from El Paso who became a global star as Cassandro, a flamboyant character known as the “Liberace of Lucha Libre.” It shows how he broke barriers in the traditionally macho world of Mexican wrestling by performing as an “exótico,” and details his struggle to accept himself, as well as the influence he had on both the sport and the LGBTQ+ community. The film emphasizes his wrestling talent and determination in a very demanding industry.

‘Bob Marley: One Love’ (2024)

This film tells the story of Bob Marley in the mid-1970s, a turbulent time in Jamaica’s history. It follows the iconic musician after he survived an assassination attempt, as he planned the famous One Love Peace Concert. The movie shows Marley’s dedication to spreading messages of peace, love, and his Rastafarian beliefs through his music, while also offering a personal look at his family life and his impact as a worldwide cultural figure.

‘Back to Black’ (2024)

This film tells the story of Amy Winehouse, the incredibly talented British singer, from her beginnings in North London to her rise to stardom. It explores the experiences that shaped her famous album, ‘Back to Black,’ and her difficult relationship with Blake Fielder-Civil. The movie shows her battles with addiction and the constant attention from the media, while also highlighting the deep emotions and personal struggles that inspired her music.

‘Shirley’ (2024)

This movie tells the story of Shirley Chisholm’s groundbreaking 1972 presidential campaign. Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to Congress, and the film shows her fighting against the traditional political system while facing prejudice from both within her party and from the public. It emphasizes her independent spirit – her belief in being ‘unbought and unbossed’ – and her dedication to giving a voice to those who were often ignored. Ultimately, it’s a powerful look at a truly pioneering leader and the impact she had.

‘Society of the Snow’ (2023)

The movie tells the incredible true story of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571, which crashed in the Andes Mountains in 1972. It follows the passengers – a rugby team and those traveling with them – as they struggle to survive for 72 days in harsh conditions and with little food. The film shows the tough choices they had to make to live and highlights their strength as a group and the powerful connections they formed during this terrible experience.

‘Golda’ (2023)

The film takes place during the 1973 Yom Kippur War and tells the story of Golda Meir, Israel’s prime minister at the time, as she navigates a shocking surprise attack on her country. It centers on the critical choices she made from the underground military command center, known as the “pit.” The movie also reveals her personal struggle with illness while dealing with intense international and political pressures. Ultimately, it provides insight into her leadership and the heavy burden of leading a nation at war.

‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’ (2021)

I was completely captivated by this film about Billie Holiday. It shows how the government really went after her, sending undercover agents to try and stop her from singing her powerful song, “Strange Fruit.” That song bravely exposed the terrible reality of lynchings. What struck me most was how it delved into her personal battles with addiction, all while showing the constant racism she faced as a Black artist. She was so strong and used her music as a way to fight back, and it’s incredibly moving to see that portrayed on screen.

‘Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ (2022)

I was completely captivated by this film about Whitney Houston. It really takes you through her whole life, starting with how Clive Davis discovered her and following her incredible journey to becoming a worldwide superstar. You see all the big moments – her amazing hit songs, that iconic Super Bowl performance… but it doesn’t shy away from the struggles she faced in her personal life and with addiction. More than anything, it’s a celebration of her unbelievable voice and the lasting influence she had on music. It truly honors her legacy.

‘Chevalier’ (2023)

The film is based on the incredible life of Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, a talented Black violinist and composer who became famous at the court of Marie Antoinette. It shows his challenges gaining acceptance among French nobles and his competitive relationships with other musicians of the time. The story also follows his role in the French Revolution and his pursuit of equality. This film brings to light a forgotten historical figure whose important contributions to classical music were overlooked for too long.

Please share your favorite biographical movies of the last few years in the comments.

2026-02-06 02:26