- Real Person Portrayed: Jake LaMotta
- Release Year: 1980
- Box Office Gross: $23.4 million
De Niro's performance as LaMotta is lauded for its raw intensity. He captures the boxer's rage and insecurity, making us empathize with a deeply flawed character. To portray LaMotta's physical decline, De Niro gained 60 pounds after filming the boxing scenes. De Niro went on to win Best Actor at Academy Awards (his second Oscar win).
- Real Person Portrayed: Stephen Hawking
- Release Year: 2014
- Box Office Gross: $123.7 million
Redmayne's Hawking is praised for its heartbreaking vulnerability. He meticulously portrays the physicist's gradual decline while showcasing his unwavering determination and sharp wit. Redmayne spent time with ALS sufferers to perfect his portrayal of Hawking's physical limitations. Redmayne also won a Best Actor at the Academy Awards for his performance in this film.
- Real Person Portrayed: Abraham Lincoln
- Release Year: 2012
- Box Office Gross: $275.3 million
Daniel Day-Lewis's Lincoln is celebrated for its remarkable humanity. He goes beyond the stoic iconography, revealing a man burdened by war yet wielding humor and political astuteness to navigate a nation's crisis. Day-Lewis reportedly spent months studying Lincoln's writings and speeches, even adopting the President's unique high-pitched voice. This choice surprised audiences but resonated with historians. Day-Lewis won a Best Actor award at that year's Oscars, his third win in the category.
- Real Person Portrayed: Johnny Cash
- Release Year: 2005
- Box Office Gross: $186.8 million
Joaquin Phoenix's Johnny Cash is transfixing for its raw authenticity. He embodies Cash's struggles with addiction and self-doubt, while channeling the Man in Black's iconic stage presence and deep baritone voice. Phoenix, himself, sang for the film, instead of a professional singer dubbing in a singing voice as happens in many other films. Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon (who portrayed June Carter) reportedly had a complex on-set relationship, mirroring the characters' own tumultuous real-life dynamic.
- Real Person Portrayed: Ray Charles
- Release Year: 2004
- Box Office Gross: $124.7 million
Jamie Foxx's Ray Charles is unforgettable for its complete transformation. Foxx not only mastered Charles' distinct mannerisms and raspy voice, but also wore prosthetic eyes to simulate blindness for much of filming, allowing him to fully inhabit the character's perspective. Ray Charles himself initially resisted the film project, but after meeting Foxx and being impressed by his dedication, Charles gave his blessing to the production. Foxx won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance.
- Real Person Portrayed: Oskar Schindler
- Release Year: 1993
- Box Office Gross: $322.2 million
Liam Neeson's portrayal of Oskar Schindler in Schindler's List is lauded for its complexity. He navigates Schindler's transformation from self-serving opportunist to reluctant savior, capturing his internal struggles and the emotional toll of his choices. To help with his performance, Neeson kept a small stone in his shoe throughout filming to remind himself of the constant fear and discomfort the Jews faced during the Holocaust. While he was nominated for Best Actor, he did not win the award.
- Real Person Portrayed: John Nash
- Release Year: 2001
- Box Office Gross: $313 million
Russell Crowe's John Nash in A Beautiful Mind is remarkable for its captivating duality. He embodies Nash's brilliant mind and captivating charisma, while also portraying the devastating descent into schizophrenia with raw vulnerability and heartbreaking confusion. However, the film takes liberties with Nash's real-life experience. While the movie depicts Nash's hallucinations starting in his youth, he actually didn't experience them until later in life.
- Real Person Portrayed: King George VI
- Release Year: 2010
- Box Office Gross: $427.4 million
Colin Firth's King George VI performance captures the king's crippling stammer and self-doubt, while also conveying the quiet strength and determination that allows him to overcome his limitations and become a powerful leader. The film's portrayal of the king's relationship with his speech therapist Lionel Logue (played by Geoffrey Rush) was actually more formal than depicted on screen. In reality, Logue was never allowed to address the king by his first name. This creative choice in the film helped to highlight the developing friendship and trust between the two men. Colin Firth won the Academy Award for Best Actor.
- Real Person Portrayed: Malcolm X
- Release Year: 1992
- Box Office Gross: $48.2 million
Denzel Washington's Malcolm X is a powerhouse performance, lauded for his captivating transformation. He embodies Malcolm's fiery rage and charisma throughout his life, from his early days as a hustler to his transformation into a powerful civil rights leader. Washington's intense delivery and physical transformation bring Malcolm X's passion and struggles to life on screen. Director Spike Lee purposefully used a non-chronological narrative structure. This choice aimed to reflect Malcolm X's own fragmented journey of self-discovery.
- Real Person Portrayed: Truman Capote
- Release Year: 2005
- Box Office Gross: $49.9 million
Philip Seymour Hoffman's portrayal of Truman Capote in the film Capote is a masterclass in transformation. He captures Capote's distinctive voice, mannerisms, and even physicality, creating an uncanny resemblance to the real-life author. But more importantly, Hoffman delves into Capote's complex psyche, exploring his ambition, vulnerability, and the moral compromises he makes for the sake of his art. Hoffman spent months researching Capote, meticulously studying his writing, recordings, and even his childhood drawings. For his performance, Capote won the Best Actor Oscar.
- Real Person Portrayed: Mark Zuckerberg
- Release Year: 2010
- Box Office Gross: $224.9 million
Jesse Eisenberg's portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg in The Social Network captures Zuckerberg's intense focus, rapid-fire dialogue, and social awkwardness with uncanny accuracy. Eisenberg's performance makes the audience both fascinated and repelled by the young tech mogul. Eisenberg reportedly spent countless hours studying Zuckerberg's public appearances and interviews to perfect his mannerisms and speech patterns. This meticulous preparation allowed him to create a highly accurate and convincing portrayal of the real-life figure.
- Real Person Portrayed: Christy Brown
- Release Year: 1989
- Box Office Gross: $14.7 million
Daniel Day-Lewis’ portrayal of Christy Brown is a tour de force. He masterfully captures the physicality and emotional depth of a man trapped in a paralyzed body, yet possessing an indomitable spirit. Day-Lewis's performance is a testament to the power of human resilience. To achieve the authenticity of Brown's physical limitations, Day-Lewis insisted on using only his left foot for many scenes, mirroring Brown's own challenges.
- Real Person Portrayed: Margaret Thatcher
- Release Year: 2011
- Box Office Gross: $115.9 million
Meryl Streep's transformation into Margaret Thatcher is nothing short of astonishing. She captures the former Prime Minister’s steely determination, unwavering convictions, and vulnerability with remarkable precision. Streep's performance offers a multifaceted portrait of a complex and controversial figure. To prepare for the role, Streep meticulously studied Thatcher's speeches, mannerisms, and even her distinctive voice. She also underwent vocal coaching to perfect Thatcher’s unique inflection. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress for the performance.
- Real Person Portrayed: Freddie Mercury
- Release Year: 2018
- Box Office Gross: $903.7 million
Rami Malek's portrayal of Freddie Mercury is a show-stopping performance. He not only captures Mercury's flamboyant stage presence but also delves into the singer's complex personality, vulnerability, and enduring spirit. Malek's performance is a celebration of the iconic musician's life and legacy. Malek underwent extensive vocal coaching to replicate Mercury's unique vocal range and apeaking style. He also spent countless hours studying archival footage to perfect Mercury's physicality and mannerisms. He was the Academy Award for Best Actor for the performance.
- Real Person Portrayed: Erin Brockovich
- Release Year: 2000
- Box Office Gross: $256.3 million
Julia Roberts' Erin Brockovich is a charismatic and empowering portrayal of a determined underdog. She captures the character's tenacity, intelligence, and compassion with infectious energy. Roberts' performance is a celebration of the human spirit and the ability of one person to make a difference. To prepare for the role, Roberts spent time with the real Erin Brockovich, immersing herself in the character's world and gaining a deep understanding of her story. Roberts won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance.
- Real Person Portrayed: Mahatma Gandhi
- Release Year: 1982
- Box Office Gross: $127.8 million
Ben Kingsley's portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi is iconic for its profound humanity. He captures Gandhi's unwavering spirit, moral conviction, and political acumen with remarkable subtlety. Kingsley's performance is a testament to the transformative power of non-violent resistance. To prepare for the role, Kingsley immersed himself in Gandhi's writings and philosophy, adopting a vegetarian diet and practicing yoga to embody the leader's lifestyle. His dedication to the role earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
- Real Person Portrayed: Frank Abagnale, Jr.
- Release Year: 2002
- Box Office Gross: $352.1 million
Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of Frank Abagnale, Jr. is a charismatic and thrilling performance. He captures the character's intelligence, charm, and audacity with youthful exuberance. DiCaprio's performance is a captivating exploration of the complex nature of a con artist. To prepare for the role, DiCaprio studied the real Frank Abagnale's life and exploits, learning the intricacies of forgery and impersonation.
- Real Person Portrayed: Wladyslaw Szpilman
- Release Year: 2002
- Box Office Gross: $120.1 million
Adrien Brody's portrayal of Wladyslaw Szpilman is a haunting and unforgettable performance. He captures the pianist's physical and emotional deterioration amidst the horrors of the Holocaust with raw intensity. To embody the physical and emotional toll of Szpilman's experiences, Brody underwent a dramatic weight loss and spent time with Holocaust survivors. He went on to win Best Actor for his performance.
- Real Person Portrayed: Muhammad Ali
- Release Year: 2001
- Box Office Gross: $87.7 million
Will Smith's portrayal of Muhammad Ali is a dynamic and electrifying performance. He captures the boxer's charisma, athleticism, and unwavering conviction with powerful energy. Smith's performance is a celebration of Ali's iconic status as a cultural and sporting icon. To prepare for the role, Smith underwent intense boxing training to physically transform into Ali. He also studied the boxer's iconic speeches and fighting style to capture his unique persona.
- Real Person Portrayed: Edith Piaf
- Release Year: 2007
- Box Office Gross: $86.3 million
Marion Cotillard's portrayal of Edith Piaf is a tour de force. She captures Piaf's raw vulnerability, immense talent, and enduring spirit with breathtaking authenticity. Cotillard’s physical transformation, combined with her powerful vocal performance, creates a haunting and unforgettable portrayal of the iconic singer. To fully embody Piaf, Cotillard underwent a rigorous physical transformation, including weight loss and dental work to replicate the singer's distinctive appearance. She also spent countless hours studying Piaf's life and music, immersing herself in the world of the French chanteuse.
- Real Person Portrayed: Jordan Belfort
- Release Year: 2013
- Box Office Gross: $392 million
Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of Jordan Belfort is a high-energy and captivating performance. He captures Belfort's charismatic charm, reckless ambition, and eventual downfall with thrilling intensity. DiCaprio's performance is a rollercoaster ride through the excesses of the 1980s. To prepare for the role, DiCaprio worked with a dialect coach to perfect Belfort's distinctive Long Island accent.
- Real Person Portrayed: Frida Kahlo
- Release Year: 2002
- Box Office Gross: $56.3 million
Salma Hayek's portrayal of Frida Kahlo is a passionate and vibrant celebration of the artist's life. She captures Kahlo's fiery spirit, physical pain, and artistic genius with raw intensity. Hayek's performance is a testament to Kahlo's enduring legacy. To embody Kahlo's physical appearance, Hayek used extensive prosthetics and makeup to replicate the artist's unique look. She also learned to paint in the style of Frida Kahlo, gaining a deeper understanding of the artist's creative process.
- Real Person Portrayed: Harvey Milk
- Release Year: 2008
- Box Office Gross: $54.6 million
Sean Penn's portrayal of Harvey Milk is a powerful and moving performance. He captures Milk's optimism, courage, and unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ rights with heartfelt conviction. Penn's performance is a tribute to a true American hero. To prepare for the role, Penn spent extensive time researching Milk's life and the LGBTQ+ movement of the 1970s. He also worked closely with Milk's friends and colleagues to accurately portray the activist's personality and spirit. Penn won the Academy Award for Best Actor.
- Real Person Portrayed: Alan Turing
- Release Year: 2014
- Box Office Gross: $233.6 million
Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Alan Turing is a complex and nuanced performance. He captures Turing's brilliant mind, social awkwardness, and inner turmoil with remarkable depth. Cumberbatch's performance is a powerful exploration of a misunderstood genius. To prepare for the role, Cumberbatch studied Turing's life and work, including mathematics and cryptography subjects. He also worked closely with experts to accurately portray Turing's physical and behavioral characteristics.
- Real Person Portrayed: Christopher McCandless
- Release Year: 2007
- Box Office Gross: $56.8 million
Emile Hirsch's portrayal of Christopher McCandless is a captivating exploration of youthful idealism and the allure of the unknown. He captures McCandless' intelligence, spirit of adventure, and growing disillusionment with society with raw authenticity. To prepare for the role, Hirsch underwent rigorous physical training to endure the harsh conditions of the wilderness. He also spent time studying McCandless' journals and photographs, immersing himself in the character's mindset and worldview.
- Real Person Portrayed: Julia Child
- Release Year: 2009
- Box Office Gross: $129.5 million
Meryl Streep's portrayal of Julia Child is a joyous celebration of the iconic chef's larger-than-life personality. She captures Child's warmth, enthusiasm, and culinary expertise with infectious energy. Streep's performance is a masterclass in physical and vocal transformation. To embody Child's physical presence, Streep wore lifts and prosthetics to enhance her height and widen her frame. She also had extensive culinary training to master Child's signature cooking techniques.
- Real Person Portrayed: Howard Hughes
- Release Year: 2004
- Box Office Gross: $214.3 million
Leonardo DiCaprio's portrayal of Howard Hughes is a complex and multifaceted performance. He captures Hughes' brilliance, eccentricity, and descent into mental illness with compelling depth. DiCaprio's performance is a testament to the actor's range and versatility. To prepare for the role, DiCaprio underwent extensive research on Hughes' life and career, studying his business ventures, aviation exploits, and personal struggles. He also worked closely with prosthetics and makeup artists to accurately portray Hughes' physical transformation over time.
- Real Person Portrayed: Andy Kaufman
- Release Year: 1999
- Box Office Gross: $47.4 million
Jim Carrey's portrayal of Andy Kaufman is a comedic and dramatic tour de force. He captures Kaufman's absurdist humor, provocative performances, and complex personality with uncanny precision. Carrey's performance is a testament to his ability to push the boundaries of comedic acting. To embody Kaufman's unique persona, Carrey studied the comedian's stand-up routines, television appearances, and interviews. He also adopted some of Kaufman's mannerisms and vocal patterns to create a truly authentic portrayal.
- Real Person Portrayed: Nic Sheff
- Release Year: 2018
- Box Office Gross: $16.6 million
Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Nic Sheff is a heart-wrenching and empathetic performance. He captures the character's struggle with addiction, his search for redemption, and his complex relationship with his father with raw vulnerability. Chalamet's performance is a powerful exploration of the human condition. To prepare for the role, Chalamet conducted extensive research on addiction and its impact on individuals and families. He also worked closely with individuals in recovery to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those struggling with substance abuse.
- Real Person Portrayed: General George S. Patton
- Release Year: 1970
- Box Office Gross: $61.8 million
George C. Scott's portrayal of General George S. Patton is iconic for its commanding presence and complex portrayal of a controversial figure. He captures Patton's brash confidence, strategic brilliance, and underlying vulnerability with remarkable depth. Scott's performance is a masterclass in embodying a historical figure. To prepare for the role, Scott studied Patton's life and career, studying his speeches, military tactics, and personal diaries. He also adopted Patton's distinctive physicality and vocal patterns to create a truly authentic portrayal.
- Real Person Portrayed: Joseph Merrick
- Release Year: 1980
- Box Office Gross: $26 million
John Hurt's portrayal of Joseph Merrick is a haunting and unforgettable performance. He captures Merrick's physical deformity, emotional isolation, and inner strength with profound humanity. To embody Merrick's physical appearance, the makeup department used numerous prosthetics to replicate the character's deformities on Hurt. He also worked closely with medical experts to understand the physical and emotional challenges faced by individuals with similar conditions.
- Real Person Portrayed: Chris Gardner
- Release Year: 2006
- Box Office Gross: $307.1 million
Will Smith's portrayal of Chris Gardner is an inspiring and uplifting performance. He captures Gardner's determination, resilience, and unwavering hope for a better future with infectious optimism. For the role, Smith spent time with homeless individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges they face.
- Real Person Portrayed: Tonya Harding
- Release Year: 2017
- Box Office Gross: $53.9 million
Margot Robbie's portrayal of Tonya Harding is a complex and controversial performance. She captures Harding's ambition, vulnerability, and the pressures she faced with both empathy and critique. Robbie actually mastered some figure skating techniques and took up some intense physical training to be able to film some of the skating scenes. However, the impressive triple axel was a combination of a professional skating double and some clever CGI work to place Robbie's face onto the body.
- Real Person Portrayed: Katherine Johnson
- Release Year: 2016
- Box Office Gross: $236.2 million
Taraji P. Henson's portrayal of Katherine Johnson is a powerful and inspiring performance. She captures Johnson's intelligence, determination, and quiet dignity with grace and strength. Henson's performance is a celebration of a pioneering mathematician and her contributions to the space program. Henson studied Katherine Johnson's life and achievements, specifically learning about the world of mathematics and the challenges faced by African American women in the 1960s who worked at NASA.
- Real Person Portrayed: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
- Release Year: 2016
- Box Office Gross: $25.1 million
Natalie Portman delivers a masterful performance as Jackie Kennedy, capturing the First Lady's delicate balance of poise and resilience in the face of immense tragedy. Portman skillfully portrays Jackie's complex interior, revealing a woman both vulnerable and fiercely protective of her husband's legacy. Her meticulous preparation, including in-depth research and meticulous attention to detail, resulted in a strikingly accurate portrayal of the iconic figure.
