13 Based on a True Story Films That Are Quite Accurate

      These films based on real events closely adhere to their true stories, exercising minimal creative liberties.

      Although many of these movies are somewhat older, several resonate with current events. One even connects to the ongoing mayoral race in New York City.

      Here’s our compilation.

      Dunkirk (2017)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      Dunkirk stands out as one of our favorite inspirational films due to its faithful representation of real events. Directed by Christopher Nolan, it cleverly manipulates time to create a thrilling historical epic.

      This World War II masterpiece depicts how British and Allied forces managed to survive and fight on against an overwhelming evil. While it's never directly stated, their failure could have led to a Nazi victory in World War II.

      The Dunkirk evacuation highlighted not only the courage and sacrifice of military personnel in the air, on land, and at sea but also the bravery of ordinary civilians who took significant actions with commendable fortitude.

      Glory (1989)

      Credit: Tri-Star Pictures

      Another film among our all-time favorites, this narrative of a Union Army regiment composed entirely of Black soldiers during the Civil War is especially known for Denzel Washington’s Oscar-winning performance. It is a rare historical film that dedicates time to genuinely touching, intimate moments between the soldiers.

      As early as 1990, critics like Roger Ebert pointed out that the story is told from a white perspective—specifically, that of Col. Robert Gould Shaw (Matthew Broderick). However, without screenwriter Kevin Jarre’s reliance on the actual letters from Gould to his mother, we might not have Glory; these letters frame and give depth to the narrative. Additionally, James Horner’s score for Glory is arguably one of the best in cinematic history.

      Although Glory features some composite characters, it is firmly rooted in a true story and closely follows significant events. It serves as an uplifting portrayal of remarkable bravery.

      All the President’s Men (1976)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      There was indeed a time when meticulously researched information had the power to transform the world.

      Screenwriter William Goldman, arguably one of the greatest screenwriters, treats the tale of Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein with a gritty, no-nonsense procedural approach. It’s a battle between truth-seekers and purveyors of deceit.

      All the President's Men is very much based on actual events, as those who lived through the Nixon Administration would confirm. Nevertheless, Goldman invented a few notable elements—such as the phrase “Follow the money.”

      If you’re seeking an excellent Robert Redford film in light of his passing, you can hardly do better than All the President's Men.

      Malcolm X (1992)

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      The second of three Denzel Washington films highlighted here, Malcolm X revolves around transformation.

      Spike Lee's epic portrays the journey of Malcolm Little to Malcolm X, and finally to El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, a man who combines his passionate pursuit of justice with an unwavering commitment to unity.

      However, Malcolm X does not shy away from depicting the pain and struggles along the way, nor does it provide simple comforts to those buoying the injustices he sought to dismantle. It is one of the most inspiring films due to its universal themes, while also being brutally honest. The conclusion, “I am Malcolm X!” is profoundly moving.

      Certainly, it closely follows the true narrative as depicted in The Autobiography of Malcolm X, authored by Malcolm X and Alex Haley. While featuring some composite characters, it remains grounded in reality.

      And for fans looking for the latest collaboration between Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, check out their new project, Highest 2 Lowest, currently streaming on Apple TV+.

      Chariots of Fire (1981)

      Credit: C/O

      The iconic Vangelis theme will inspire you to sprint down a beach; however, the true story behind this uplifting movie is equally motivating. Set a century ago, Chariots of Fire chronicles the factual accounts of two runners—Scottish Christian Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson), who runs to honor God, and Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross), an English Jew racing to combat antisemitism.

      Screenwriter Collin Welland went to great lengths to ensure authenticity, interviewing many living individuals depicted in the film and even placing ads in London newspapers to gather memories of the 1924 Olympics.

      The film won four Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Screenplay for Welland, Best Score for Vangelis, and Best Costume Design. It’s especially enjoyable to watch during the Olympics.

      Erin Brockovich (2000)

      Universal Pictures – Credit: C/O

      The real Erin Brockovich has stated that this 2000 drama directed by Steven Soderbergh— which earned Julia Roberts an Oscar for Best Actress—was “probably 98% accurate,” noting that there were very few creative liberties taken.

      The film recounts how Brockovich, an unemployed single mother of three, secured a