Paul Greengrass directed this dramatic biographical thriller about the hijacking of an American ship by Somali pirates. The film was based on Richard Philips’ own account as documented in his book, “A Captain’s Duty: Somali Pirates, Navy SEALs, and Dangerous Days at Sea.”
The film stays true to the book, and the harrowing story drew audiences to the movie theaters, was well-received by critics, and received six Oscar nominations.
Moneyball
"Moneyball" is based on a bestselling novel of the same name written by Michael Lewis. It tells the amazing true story of the Oakland Athletics baseball team’s 2002 season, in which general manager Billy Beane uses his small budget and a new way of choosing players in order to create a winning team.
Most people involved claim that the film stuck mostly to the facts but did change the order of some events. Nonetheless, director Bennett Miller's film was a box office hit and was even nominated for six Oscars.
Fruitvale Station
Hollywood films which tell the story of someone’s wrongful death are common, but films that tell the true story of someone’s last day in a thoughtful way are much rarer. Michael B. Jordan’s performance as Oscar Grant III was applauded by critics.
The film tried to stay true to who Grant was and the tragedy of his last moments. To keep the film even more authentic, the final scenes were shot in Oakland, California, on the very same platform on which the real Oscar Grant III was killed.
Lincoln
The film focuses on the last months of Lincoln’s life and his attempt to abolish slavery. Lincoln highlights both the public and the private persona of America’s 16th president and gives viewers a chance to identify with him as a man and not just a political figure.
The movie is both riveting and, according to historians, true to the feel and events which took place at the time. It is believed that actor Daniel Day Lewis’s portrayal of the great man, is the most accurate to date, including his surprisingly high voice.
Born on the Fourth of July
Directed by Oliver Stone, this film is a biography of Vietnam War veteran turned political activist Ron Kovic. The film is based on Kovic’s autobiography of the same name. Stone and Kovic set out to make a film for veterans everywhere.
Stone’s first-hand knowledge of the war helped make the film look and feel right and he also understands the emotional turmoil veterans go through during and after the war.