10 Biopics That Celebrate the Human Spirit

Description: Julia Roberts stars as Erin Brockovich, a single mother who, against all odds, takes on a major corporation in a landmark environmental lawsuit. Her tenacity and determination make this a classic story of overcoming adversity.

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

Description: Adrien Brody stars as Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist who survives the Holocaust by hiding in the ruins of Warsaw. It's a poignant story of survival, music, and the will to live.

Fact: Brody lost 30 pounds to play the role and stayed in character throughout filming. He won an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Description: This film explores the life of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician who battles schizophrenia while making groundbreaking contributions to economics. It's a story of intellectual triumph over mental illness.

Fact: Russell Crowe was initially reluctant to take on the role, fearing it would be too similar to his previous work. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This French film, with English subtitles, tells the story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, who suffers a massive stroke and must communicate using only his left eye. It's a profound exploration of human resilience and the power of the mind.

Fact: The film was shot from Bauby's perspective, with the camera representing his limited field of vision. Mathieu Amalric, who played Bauby, was nominated for a César Award.

Description: Will Smith delivers a powerful performance as Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who, despite homelessness and poverty, pursues his dream of becoming a stockbroker. It's a testament to the power of perseverance.

Fact: The film's title is misspelled intentionally, reflecting a real-life mistake on a mural that inspired the movie. Jaden Smith, Will's son, played his on-screen son.

Description: Sandra Bullock plays Leigh Anne Tuohy, who takes in a homeless teenager, Michael Oher, and helps him realize his potential as a football player. It's a heartwarming tale of kindness and the transformative power of support.

Fact: Michael Oher himself was involved in the film's production. Sandra Bullock won an Academy Award for Best Actress.

Description: Meryl Streep portrays Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first female Prime Minister, focusing on her political career and personal life, showcasing her resilience and determination in a male-dominated field.

Fact: Streep spent time with Thatcher to prepare for the role. She won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance.

Description: This film tells the story of King George VI, who overcomes his debilitating stammer with the help of an unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue, to deliver a crucial wartime speech. It's a tale of personal growth and the power of friendship.

Fact: The film was originally planned as a play before being adapted into a movie. Colin Firth won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of King George VI.

Description: Based on the true story of Aron Ralston, this film shows his harrowing experience of being trapped by a boulder while canyoneering, leading to an extreme act of self-rescue. It's a gripping tale of survival against all odds.

Fact: The film was shot in the exact location where the real event occurred. James Franco was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance.

Description: Eddie Redmayne stars as Stephen Hawking, depicting his life from his early days at university to his rise as a world-renowned physicist, all while battling motor neuron disease. It's a story of love, intellect, and resilience.

Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to reflect Hawking's physical deterioration. Eddie Redmayne won an Oscar for Best Actor.