Shaken, Not Stirred: A Collection of Bartender Biopics

Description: While not strictly a biopic, "Cocktail" captures the essence of the bar culture through the eyes of Brian Flanagan, a young man learning the ropes of bartending. It's a classic tale of ambition, flair, and the allure of the bar scene.

Fact: Tom Cruise did his own bartending stunts, including the famous bottle flipping.

Description: Based on Hunter S. Thompson's novel, this film features Johnny Depp as Paul Kemp, a journalist who finds himself in the vibrant bar scene of 1960s Puerto Rico. While not a traditional bartender story, it captures the spirit of the era's drinking culture.

Fact: Johnny Depp and Hunter S. Thompson were close friends, and Depp often portrayed characters inspired by Thompson.

Description: This crime thriller features several bar scenes where characters, including undercover cops and mobsters, interact. It's a gritty portrayal of the bar as a place for clandestine meetings and character development.

Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film.

Description: This film isn't about bartending per se, but it includes scenes in bars where the characters, dealing with family issues, find solace and connection. It's a poignant look at how bars can be a refuge for the troubled soul.

Fact: The film won the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Description: Although not a biopic about bartenders, this film includes numerous scenes in bars and clubs where the characters indulge in excess. It showcases the hedonistic side of bar culture and the people who thrive in it.

Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This comedy sci-fi film follows a group of friends attempting to complete a pub crawl, with one character, Gary King, embodying the spirit of a legendary barman. It's a unique take on the bartender's life, focusing on the camaraderie and chaos of pub culture.

Fact: The film's title is the name of the last pub in the crawl, symbolizing the end of the world.

Description: While primarily a crime drama, "The Iceman" features scenes in bars where the protagonist, Richard Kuklinski, a notorious hitman, interacts with bartenders. It provides a glimpse into the darker side of bar life.

Fact: Michael Shannon, who plays Kuklinski, underwent extensive research to portray the real-life character accurately.

Description: Set in a Brooklyn bar, "The Drop" explores the life of Bob Saginowski, a bartender caught in the criminal underworld. It's a gritty, character-driven story that delves into the complexities of bar life.

Fact: The film is based on a short story by Dennis Lehane, who also wrote the screenplay.

Description: While not strictly about bartenders, the film features a memorable bar scene where the characters share stories and drinks. It's a whimsical look at the hospitality industry, including the art of bartending.

Fact: Wes Anderson's meticulous attention to detail extended to the creation of the hotel's bar, which was built from scratch.

Description: This film, based on J.R. Moehringer's memoir, follows a young man's coming-of-age story, with his uncle Charlie, a charismatic bartender, playing a pivotal role in his life. It's a heartfelt look at the influence of a bar's atmosphere and its keeper on personal growth.

Fact: Ben Affleck, who plays Charlie, learned to bartend for the role, adding authenticity to his performance.