10 Must-Watch Prison Biopic Films

Description: Based on the autobiography by Henri Charrière, this film follows the life of a safecracker who is sentenced to life in the notorious Devil's Island penal colony. It's a tale of survival, escape, and the human spirit's unyielding desire for freedom.

Fact: Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman both lost significant weight for their roles to reflect the harsh conditions of the prison.

Description: While not exclusively about prison, this film includes scenes of civil rights activists being imprisoned, focusing on the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the personal stories of those involved.

Fact: The film was shot in Montgomery, Alabama, where the actual events took place.

Description: This film recounts the true story of the Guildford Four, who were wrongfully convicted of IRA bombings in England. It's a poignant tale of injustice, family, and the fight for exoneration, focusing on Gerry Conlon's journey from innocence to imprisonment.

Fact: Daniel Day-Lewis learned to play the guitar for the film, and the real Gerry Conlon was on set during filming.

Description: Though not strictly a biopic, this film is inspired by Stephen King's novella, which was influenced by real-life prison stories. It tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker who is sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary for the murder of his wife and her lover, despite his claims of innocence.

Fact: The film was not a box office success initially but has since become one of the most beloved films of all time, often topping IMDb's Top 250 list.

Description: Inspired by Stephen King's novel, this film, while fictional, captures the essence of prison life and the moral dilemmas faced by those within the system, focusing on the supernatural elements and the humanity of the inmates.

Fact: The film's title refers to the lime-green linoleum that covers the floors of the prison's death row.

Description: The story of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a middleweight boxer who was wrongfully convicted of murder. This biopic explores his fight for justice and the impact of his imprisonment on his life and those around him.

Fact: Denzel Washington was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of Carter.

Description: This film focuses on the 1981 Irish hunger strike led by Bobby Sands, detailing the brutal conditions in the Maze prison and the political and personal ramifications of the strike.

Fact: Michael Fassbender lost 42 pounds for his role as Bobby Sands, mirroring the physical deterioration of the hunger striker.

Description: This film dives into the life of Michael Peterson, who became Britain's most notorious prisoner, known as Charles Bronson. It's a raw, intense portrayal of a man who spent most of his life behind bars, exploring themes of identity, violence, and the prison system's impact on the individual.

Fact: Tom Hardy gained 42 pounds for the role and spent time with the real Charles Bronson to prepare for the part.

Description: This biopic covers Nelson Mandela's life, including his 27 years in prison for his fight against apartheid. It's a powerful depiction of his journey from prisoner to president.

Fact: Idris Elba, who played Mandela, was personally chosen by Mandela's family for the role.

Description: Based on the true story of Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers' escape from the infamous Alcatraz prison, this film is a thrilling account of one of the most daring prison breaks in history.

Fact: Clint Eastwood, who played Frank Morris, did many of his own stunts, including the rooftop escape scene.