Tom Hanks Movies Based on Real Events: From Bridge of Spies to Apollo 13

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Without a shadow of a doubt, Tom Hanks has created some unforgettable on-screen personas, be it from the timeless Forrest Gump or the heartwarmingly popular Toy Story series. Yet, he really excels when bringing real-life heroes and historical figures to life in movies inspired by true events starring Tom Hanks.

For an understandable rephrase: He’s often referred to as the “everyman” because he handles extraordinary real-life situations exceptionally well. If you haven’t watched these movies yet, this list should get you eager to settle in with a big tub of popcorn and enjoy the stories that have struck a chord with people all over the globe.

1. Bridge of Spies 

Role: James B. Donovan

Director: Steven Spielberg

Release Year: 2015

Based On: Cold War/prisoner exchange
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10

Where to Watch: Not available online

In the 1960s, the film narrates the story of lawyer James Donovan who engages in a critical hostage swap between the United States and the Soviet Union. This Tom Hanks movie is inspired by true events, where Hanks’ character diligently works to release a Soviet spy, in return for American U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers.

In this movie, you can almost feel the tension as it unfolds with gripping courtroom sequences and nerve-wracking scenes at a CIA outpost. The visuals are dramatically intense, and the emotional resonance is deep, ensuring that your pulse quickens from start to finish.

2. Apollo 13

Role: Jim Lovell

Director: Ron Howard 

Release Year: 1995

Based On: NASA’s space program
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10

Where to Watch: Apple TV

In simple terms, this catastrophic event marked the most significant challenge to trust in NASA’s space missions. Bravely confronting overwhelming perils, the Apollo 13 astronauts miraculously made it back to our planet safely.

In the film inspired by true events featuring Tom Hanks, NASA is in a race against the clock to create a plan for returning a damaged spacecraft safely. However, the mission takes a dangerous turn when the spacecraft experiences severe internal damage, jeopardizing the lives of the three astronauts aboard.

3. The Post 

Role: Ben Bradlee

Director: Steven Spielberg

Release Year: 2017

Based On: Journalism
IMDb Rating: Unknown

Where to Watch: Apple TV

The movie centers around Meryl Streep’s character Katherine Graham and Tom Hanks’ character Ben Bradlee, as they fight to release the Pentagon Papers through The Washington Post. This riveting true tale, which unfolds in 1970, is steeped in a complex web of political intrigue.

In this film, once again starring Tom Hanks, we find ourselves immersed in a drama inspired by true events. Katherine Graham, breaking barriers as the first woman publisher in an industry dominated by men, is at the center of the story. Her unwavering resolve to expose the truth creates a gripping atmosphere that will leave you on the very edge of your chair.

Tom Hanks’ character, editor Ben Bradlee, along with Meryl Streep’s Katherine, employ their skills as seasoned journalists to battle obstacles at every turn.

4. Charlie Wilson’s War 

Role: Charlie Wilson

Director: Mike Nichols

Release Year: 2007

Based On: Cold War
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10

Where to Watch: Apple TV

The film portrays the United States’ endeavors to aid the Afghan populace in their struggle against the Soviet Union during the 1980s, with Tom Hanks playing the role of Congressman Charlie Wilson.

In the Tom Hanks film inspired by true events, we first see the character Wilson depicted as a carefree partygoer, but over time he evolves into a committed legislator.

As a passionate admirer, I can’t help but be moved by this film that vividly portrays the significant ripple effects our lawmakers’ choices have on the very people they represent.

5. Elvis 

Role: Colonel Tom Parker

Director: Baz Luhrmann

Release Year: 2022

Based On: Elvis Presley
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10

Where to Watch: Apple TV

There’s no need for an introduction when it comes to Elvis Presley, the legendary King of Rock & Roll. But this movie isn’t solely about him; it also delves into the story of the mentor who recognized and nurtured the raw talent in a young boy from a troubled household in Memphis, Tennessee – portrayed by Austin Butler.

Significantly, Tom Hanks plays a character in this film, who is anything but heroic. In the movie inspired by true events that stars Tom Hanks, he assumes one of the least common and most intricate roles in his acting career.

Instead of assuming this movie is just another standard biography about the world’s most renowned musician, consider it as a novel take on storytelling. The performance of Austin Butler as Elvis Presley is so compelling that you might end up convinced he is the real King himself.

Plus, get ready to groove to the timeless classic tracks that have been loved for generations.

6. Saving Mr. Banks 

Role: Walt Disney

Director: John Lee Hancock

Release Year: 2013

Based On: Walt Disney

IMDb Rating: 7.5/10

Where to Watch: Apple TV

One of Tom Hanks’ cherished films, “Saving Mr. Banks,” is a captivating tale inspired by true events that still delights viewers. The movie delves into the life of the iconic Walt Disney, centering on his challenges in adapting P.L. Travers’ novel, Mary Poppins, for the silver screen.

In a captivating display, Tom Hanks’ performance is impossible to look away from, as he skillfully taps into his longstanding bond with the Disney empire – an association many will remember from his iconic role as Woody in the Toy Story series. His portrayal of Disney in Saving Mr. Banks showcases a deep emotional investment and empathy, making it apparent that he approached the character with genuine care and commitment.

7. Captain Phillips

Role: Richard Phillips

Director: Paul Greengrass

Release Year: 2013

Based On: Hijacking 

IMDb Rating: 7.8/10

Where to Watch: Apple TV

This film primarily focuses on the life story of Captain Richard Phillips, as depicted in Stephen Talty’s 2010 novel. The narrative unfolds as we follow him on a treacherous journey across pirate-ridden seas near the Kenyan coastline.

Initially, a standard sea voyage for transporting goods unfolds without incident. However, the peace is shattered when the crew finds themselves in a perilous predicament, held captive against their will. The tension intensifies as Captain Phillips gets seized by Abduwali Muse and his accomplices, who make demands for a ransom.

8. Sully

Role: Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger

Director: Clint Eastwood

Release Year: 2016

Based On: Damaged plane 

IMDb Rating: 7.4/10

Where to Watch: Max

“Sully” is an exceptionally captivating account of a true story and another outstanding film performance by Tom Hanks. In this movie, Tom Hanks portrays Chesley “Sullenberger,” the captain of Flight 1549.

In the middle of a flight, when both planes’ engines malfunction, Sully is compelled to perform an urgent water landing – on the Hudson River in New York City. However, the actual drama unfolds post-landing, as Sully undergoes rigorous examination and close scrutiny following the incident.

In the real world, there was a split perspective on Sully: some regarded him as a courageous pilot who saved numerous lives, whereas others debated if his actions could be considered risky.

9. A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood

Role: Fred Rogers

Director: Marielle Heller

Release Year: 2019

Based On: Journalism

IMDb Rating: 7.2/10

Where to Watch: Apple TV

As a devoted admirer, I’d like to share my insights about a captivating biopic that delves deep into the intricate aspects of Fred Rogers’ life. This movie isn’t just about confirming or denying the legendary status America bestowed upon him; rather, it invites us on an exploratory journey to unearth the genuine Mister Rogers, as uncovered by tenacious investigative journalist Lloyd Vogel.

Delve into the true-life tale that made Tom Hanks a symbol of American fatherhood by watching one of his gripping films depicting actual events.

Movies Partially Based on Real Life

Among the films starring Tom Hanks, several are partly inspired by true events such as Catch Me If You Can, Cast Away, Saving Private Ryan, and others. To a degree, Forrest Gump also falls under this classification.

Conclusion

Tom Hanks has an exceptional talent for making historical tales come alive on the big screen. His movies don’t just amuse us, they enlighten and motivate as well, portraying truly remarkable true-to-life occurrences.

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2025-05-22 14:07