Everyday Biopics: A Collection of Inspiring Films

Description: Julia Roberts stars as Erin Brockovich, a single mother who becomes a legal assistant and almost single-handedly brings down a California power company accused of polluting a city's water supply. It's a testament to the power of the individual in the face of corporate greed.

Fact: Erin Brockovich herself made a cameo in the film. Julia Roberts won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role.

Description: This film follows the life of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist, during the Holocaust. It's a harrowing yet inspiring tale of survival, showcasing the power of music and human spirit in the darkest of times.

Fact: Adrien Brody won an Academy Award for Best Actor, becoming the youngest actor to win the award at the time. The film was shot in Warsaw, where many of the events took place.

Description: John Nash's life, from his brilliant mathematical career to his struggle with schizophrenia, is portrayed in this film. It's a story of genius, love, and the everyday battle with mental illness.

Fact: Russell Crowe was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film won four Oscars, including Best Picture.

Description: Truman Capote's journey to write "In Cold Blood" is depicted in this film, focusing on his relationship with the killers he interviewed. It's a study of ambition, morality, and the cost of fame.

Fact: Philip Seymour Hoffman won an Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of Capote. The film was shot in black and white to reflect the era and the book's tone.

Description: This film tells the story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, the editor-in-chief of French Elle magazine, who suffers a massive stroke and is left with locked-in syndrome, able to communicate only through blinking his left eye. It's a poignant exploration of how one can find beauty and purpose in the most restrictive circumstances.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Director for Julian Schnabel. The real-life Bauby wrote his memoir by blinking, which is how the film was adapted.

Description: This film explores Queen Elizabeth II's response to the death of Princess Diana, offering insight into the private life of the monarchy and the public's expectations. It's a nuanced look at duty, tradition, and the everyday challenges of royalty.

Fact: Helen Mirren won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II. The film was shot with the cooperation of the British Royal Family.

Description: Based on the true story of Chris Gardner, this film follows his journey from homelessness to becoming a successful stockbroker. It's an uplifting tale of perseverance and the pursuit of a better life, highlighting the everyday struggles of a father trying to provide for his son.

Fact: Will Smith and his son Jaden played father and son in the movie, mirroring their real-life relationship. The film's title misspells "happiness" to reflect a misspelling on a mural in the film.

Description: Based on the true story of Michael Oher, this film shows how a homeless and traumatized boy finds a family and a future in American football. It's a heartwarming tale of kindness, family, and the impact of everyday people on one's life.

Fact: Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Leigh Anne Tuohy. The real Michael Oher made a cameo in the film.

Description: This film chronicles King George VI's struggle to overcome his stammer with the help of an unorthodox speech therapist. It's a story about overcoming personal challenges, set against the backdrop of impending war.

Fact: Colin Firth won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as King George VI. The film was the first to be allowed to film inside Westminster Abbey since the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Description: This biopic focuses on the life of physicist Stephen Hawking, particularly his relationship with his wife Jane and his battle with motor neuron disease. It's a deeply moving portrayal of love, intellect, and the human spirit's resilience.

Fact: Eddie Redmayne won an Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of Hawking. The film was adapted from Jane Hawking's memoir, "Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen."