15 Shocking Movies You Didn’t Know Were Based on True Stories

Many films market themselves as fiction, even when their stories are rooted in real events. In some cases, the connection to history is clear. In others, audiences are surprised to learn that a shocking plot point, crime, survival story, or legal battle actually happened. Filmmakers often adjust timelines or combine characters, but the core events remain grounded in documented accounts. This list highlights 15 films whose most disturbing or unexpected elements are drawn from real people and real situations, offering a closer look at the true stories behind the on screen drama.

The Exorcist (1973)

The story was inspired in part by a 1949 case involving a reported exorcism of a young boy in the United States, documented in diaries kept by a priest.

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

While fictional in plot, elements of the film were influenced by crimes committed by Ed Gein, whose actions also inspired other horror characters.

Goodfellas (1990)

Based on Nicholas Pileggi’s nonfiction book Wiseguy, the film follows the real life rise and fall of mob associate Henry Hill.

Schindler’s List (1993)

The film portrays Oskar Schindler’s documented efforts to save more than one thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust.

Titanic (1997)

While the central romance is fictional, the film is set during the real 1912 sinking of the RMS Titanic and includes historical passengers and events.

Erin Brockovich (2000)

The film follows a real legal assistant who helped build a case against a utility company accused of contaminating a town’s water supply.

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr., who carried out fraud schemes across multiple states before being apprehended.

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

Inspired by the life of Chris Gardner, who experienced homelessness before building a successful career in finance.

The Conjuring (2013)

The film centers on paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren and a case they claimed to have worked on in the 1970s.

12 Years a Slave (2013)

Adapted from Solomon Northup’s 1853 memoir, documenting his kidnapping and years spent enslaved in the American South.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Based on Jordan Belfort’s memoir about financial fraud, excess, and eventual prosecution.

Spotlight (2015)

The film depicts the Boston Globe investigation into widespread abuse within the Catholic Church, based on documented reporting.

Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

Follows Desmond Doss, a combat medic who served in World War II without carrying a weapon and received the Medal of Honor.

Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

A dramatized account of Freddie Mercury’s life and career with the band Queen.

Sound of Freedom (2023)

Inspired by real anti trafficking operations and the work of former government agent Tim Ballard.