True Stories, IMDb Ratings Over 8: These Films Are in a League of Their Own
Real events can be more powerful than fiction — if done well.
There’s something especially powerful about films based on real events — when done right, they hit deeper than fiction. I’ve seen all the movies on this list, and I can confidently say they left a lasting impression. That’s why I decided to bring them together in this quick but meaningful roundup.
Schindler’s List
A haunting, unforgettable account of Oskar Schindler — the German businessman who saved over a thousand Jews during WWII. Filmed in stark black and white, it feels less like fiction and more like you're watching history itself unfold.
Yes, it’s heavy. But it’s also necessary. Spielberg’s masterful direction gives this story the emotional gravity it deserves. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s one of the most important.
IMDb rating: 9.0.
A Beautiful Mind
This one follows the life of brilliant mathematician John Nash, whose mind becomes both his gift and his greatest challenge. It’s not just a portrait of genius, but a story about struggle, love, and resilience.
Russell Crowe delivers one of his best performances — and the emotional depth here is what stuck with me the most. A film that makes you reflect on what reality really is.
IMDb rating: 8.2.
Catch Me If You Can
Frank Abagnale was a teenage con artist who fooled the world — impersonating pilots, doctors, and lawyers, all before he turned 21. Spielberg turned his wild true story into a fast-paced, stylish cat-and-mouse game.
Leonardo DiCaprio is electric in the lead, and Tom Hanks adds just the right amount of weight. I revisit this film whenever I want something both clever and fun.
IMDb rating: 8.1.
