The year 1917 was a pivotal moment in history, marked by significant events like the Russian Revolution and World War I. These films delve into the lives of remarkable individuals who lived through this tumultuous time, offering a window into their personal struggles, triumphs, and the broader historical context. Whether you're a history buff or simply love a good biographical drama, this collection promises to transport you back to a defining era.
The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: While set in 1898, the film's narrative is influenced by the colonial era, which was significantly impacted by the events of 1917, particularly in terms of global power dynamics.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Tsavo maneaters, two man-eating lions in Kenya.
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The Man Who Knew Infinity (2015)
Description: The film focuses on the life of Srinivasa Ramanujan, whose mathematical genius was recognized in the early 20th century, including during the transformative year of 1917.
Fact: Ramanujan's notebooks are still studied today for their mathematical insights.
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The Danish Girl (2015)
Description: Set in the 1920s, the film explores the life of Lili Elbe, one of the first known recipients of sex reassignment surgery, whose early life was shaped by the cultural shifts of 1917.
Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Eddie Redmayne.
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The Lost City of Z (2016)
Description: While primarily set in the 1920s, the film's protagonist, Percy Fawcett, was born in 1867, and his early career and the backdrop of his expeditions were shaped by the events of 1917.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations including Colombia and Ireland to replicate the Amazon jungle.
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The King's Speech (2010)
Description: King George VI's reign began in 1936, but his early life and the political context were deeply affected by the events of 1917, including the abdication crisis.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Colin Firth.
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The Immigrant (2013)
Description: Set in 1921, this film explores the immigrant experience in America, with characters whose lives were influenced by the events of 1917, particularly the Russian Revolution.
Fact: The film was shot on location at Ellis Island, where many immigrants first set foot in America.
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The Railway Man (2013)
Description: Although the main events occur during World War II, the film's protagonist, Eric Lomax, was born in 1919, and his early life was shaped by the aftermath of 1917's global changes.
Fact: The real Eric Lomax wrote a memoir which inspired the film, detailing his experiences as a prisoner of war.
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The Imitation Game (2014)
Description: Alan Turing's work during World War II was influenced by the technological advancements and the geopolitical landscape post-1917.
Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch was nominated for an Academy Award for his role as Turing.
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The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: While Stephen Hawking's life story spans many decades, his early years and the beginning of his academic career were influenced by the post-1917 world.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Hawking.
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The King's Choice (2016)
Description: This film captures the dramatic events surrounding King Haakon VII of Norway during the German invasion in 1940, but its roots are in the political climate of 1917 when Norway was still navigating its independence.
Fact: The film was Norway's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards.
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