12 Movies Based on True Events That Are Quite Accurate

      These films inspired by true stories tend to stay quite faithful to the actual events, making only a few creative adjustments.

      Dunkirk (2017)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      Dunkirk ranks among our favorite uplifting movies due to its adherence to historical events. Directed by Christopher Nolan, it employs intriguing time manipulation techniques, maintaining a thrilling pace throughout the historical epic.

      This masterpiece of World War II depicts the perseverance of British and Allied troops as they fought against a formidable enemy. Although not explicitly stated, their failure could have allowed the Nazis to emerge victorious in the war.

      The Dunkirk evacuation showcased the courage and sacrifice not just of the military personnel across air, land, and sea, but also of ordinary civilians who demonstrated remarkable bravery while maintaining their composure.

      Glory (1989)

      Credit: Tri-Star Pictures

      Another beloved film, Glory tells the tale of an all-black Union Army regiment during the Civil War, renowned for Denzel Washington's Oscar-winning performance. It stands out as a sweeping historical account that also dedicates time to deeply moving, intimate moments between the soldiers.

      Critics, including Roger Ebert as early as 1990, noted that the narrative is told from a white perspective, specifically that of Col. Robert Gould Shaw (Matthew Broderick). However, without screenwriter Kevin Jarre's reliance on Shaw's actual letters to his mother, which frame the narrative, the film might not have existed. James Horner's score for Glory may well be the most exceptional in cinematic history.

      While Glory incorporates some composite characters, it remains very much grounded in true events, closely following significant happenings. It is a profoundly uplifting tale of extraordinary bravery.

      All the President’s Men (1976)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      There was a time when accurately reported information had the power to effect real change in the world.

      Screenwriter William Goldman, arguably one of the best, crafts the story of Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein like a gritty, unsentimental investigation. It's a battle of fact-finders against those who spread deceit.

      All the President’s Men is rooted in reality, as anyone who experienced the Nixon Administration can confirm. However, Goldman did invent memorable elements, including the famous phrase "Follow the money."

      Malcolm X (1992)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      The second of three Denzel Washington films on this list, Malcolm X revolves around personal growth.

      Spike Lee's epic traces the transformation of Malcolm Little into Malcolm X, eventually becoming El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, a man who intertwines his passionate calls for justice with a dedicated commitment to unity.

      Malcolm X doesn't shy away from portraying the pain and challenges along the journey, nor does it offer easy comforts to those who support the injustices Malcolm sought to dismantle. This film resonates universally and uncompromisingly, with a breathtaking conclusion featuring “I am Malcolm X!”

      It is indeed based on true events, closely mirroring The Autobiography of Malcolm X, co-authored by Malcolm X and Alex Haley. While featuring some composite characters, it remains faithful to the facts.

      Chariots of Fire (1981)

      Credit: C/O

      The iconic Vangelis theme may inspire you to sprint along a beach, but the true story behind Chariots of Fire, set a century ago, is just as inspirational. It recounts the factual tale of two runners: the Scottish Christian Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson), who competes to honor God, and Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross), an English Jew striving to combat antisemitism.

      Screenwriter Collin Welland made significant efforts to ensure authenticity by interviewing surviving individuals portrayed in the film and even placing ads in London newspapers soliciting memories of the 1924 Olympics.

      The film garnered four Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Screenplay for Welland, Best Score for Vangelis, and Best Costume Design. It's especially enjoyable around the Olympics.

      Erin Brockovich (2000)

      Universal Pictures – Credit: C/O

      The real Erin Brockovich has stated that Steven Soderbergh’s 2000 drama — which earned Julia Roberts an Oscar for best actress — was “probably 98% accurate,” noting that very few creative liberties were taken.

      The movie portrays how Brockovich, an unemployed single mother of three, secured a job at a law firm and helped compile a class action lawsuit against the utility company Pacific Gas & Electric, accused of polluting the drinking water in Hinkley, California. PG&E ultimately settled the case in 1996 for $333 million. While it's an uplifting narrative, it also addresses grim realities.

      The film depicts Brockovich utilizing her intelligence, interpersonal skills, and perhaps some revealing attire to achieve her goals.

      “Yes, I did dress that way,” Brockovich remarked on her website. “I was genuinely surprised by the reactions regarding my outfits. I chose my clothing simply because it was enjoyable and I liked it. I was taught never to judge a