4 Gripping Netflix Movies Based On True Stories

Sometimes the best (and most entertaining) way to learn about true events is by watching movies dedicated to sharing their stories.

If you are looking to learn a thing or two about real world events, people, and places, then look no further! We have graciously compiled some of the best and most thrilling Netflix movies based on true stories.

Dolemite Is My Name

This biographical dramedy stars Eddie Murphy as Rudy Ray Moore, a comedian, actor, and singer known for his alternate persona Dolemite: a larger-than-life irreverent character with a flamboyant style and a penchant for risque and explicit humor. His language was colorful (as polite society would describe it). 

The film is an uplifting, inspiring, downright brash, and bold comedy that critics deemed a significant homage to blaxploitation. Murphy is magnetic in the role that marked his return to cinema following a break from the silver screen. Murphy gets the chance to honor a man who slipped through the cracks of history despite revolutionizing both the music industry and the comedic world — all while firmly re-cementing his individual star power. 

The Two Popes

The Two Popes is a biographical drama highlighting the relationship between Pope Benedict XVI (Anthony Hopkins) and Pope Francis (Jonathan Pryce) as they work together to confront the past and forge a new path for the Catholic Church. The movie takes place during a turning point for the Vatican following the discovery of misconduct among the clergy.

With two equally matched actors in leading roles, this movie benefits most from compelling performances. These two men are at a crossroads — polar in their personalities and ideologies — but can they come together to fix what’s broken? While The Two Popes greatly fictionalizes the history involved, it does so in a way that augments the film’s emotional core — becoming both a sensitive and sometimes humorous take on what it means to serve God. It’s a difficult story to weave — ensuring not to villainize or exalt anyone involved — but with snappy dialogue and relatable contemporary dilemmas, it achieves greatness. 

The Irishman

The Irishman is based on the real-life story of truck driver Frank Sheeran who gets involved with Russell Bufalino and his Pennsylvania crime family. The three-and-a-half-hour epic saga (consider watching it in parts) follows Sheeran’s climb up the crime syndicate’s ladder to become a top hitman. He goes to work for Jimmy Hoffa — a powerful Teamster tied to organized crime — and later claims to be involved in his disappearance. 

The Trial of the Chicago 7

The Trial of the Chicago 7 is based on the infamous 1969 trial of seven defendants charged with conspiracy and incitement to riot during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. 

Director Aaron Sorkin (The Social Network, Moneyball, Being the Ricardos)  is firmly in his wheelhouse with this one — showcasing the faults in our modern justice system and the disappointing failings in the land of the free. What takes place inside the courtroom will keep you on the edge of your seat — the dialogue surges with intensity. There is no reprieve.