I hereby want to quote that famous Gwen Stefani song Hollaback to describe my feelings about this week’s theme: “this my sh*t, this my sh*t!” And that says it all really, because a movie based on true events is just the kind of sh*t I go for, and I love these types of movies a lot. Also, I’m hereby breaking my own special rule of not re-mentioning movies because I can’t help myself. I have to do it!
1. SPOTLIGHT, 2015
Few movies manage to really stir up emotion in such a sophisticated and calm manner as does Spotlight. A movie based on true events, where a Boston newspaper discovered a massive child molestation and cover up among the system of Catholic Church. It shook the world, and the movie explores how these journalists got there. Written brilliantly, and acted even better, Spotlight is a movie that showcases a very sensitive subject, especially considering the religious nature of America.
PS: The end credit list is eerie to say at least.. up until then the movie sort of hides its size but once that list appears, it really hits you, and it becomes horrific in seconds.
2. THE IMPOSSIBLE, 2012
It’s hard to make a movie based on national disaster, but The Impossible manages that by focusing on a single family. Based on a Spanish family, The Impossible is a heartbreaking story that will definitely test your emotions. The story feels so unbelievable, and I’m sure some of it is fictional, but the main plot is taken from life itself. The Impossible also features a very young Tom Holland giving a really great performance, the kind I reviewed to be remembered because I was sure he was going to go on from The Impossible to greater things. And look at where he’s now, our friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man.
3. EDDIE THE EAGLE, 2016
Onto a little bit less serious movie but just as emotional as the first two recommendations. Eddie the Eagle is the kind of feel good sports movie you don’t want to miss. An unbelievable story of a man who went against all odds and become an Olympian, while nobody, even his father, didn’t believe in him. The movie has some great laughs but also a lot of heart and passion. Plus, it has Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman, which is all you need in life, really.
BONUS: ZODIAC, 2007
Alright, so I’ve mentioned Zodiac before and I know I’m sort of breaking my own rule of not mentioning a movie twice in a Thursday Movie Picks post, but how can I not talk about Zodiac? And it’s not just because it’s Fincher’s movie and it has brilliant acting and it’s just amazing throughout (I really need to rewatch it soon), it’s because the Zodiac killer is still a mystery! Some of the cases are still open, some are cold cases, and out of four of the ciphers Zodiac sent to the newspaper three are still unsolved! So it’s interesting and fascinating, and if you happen to be curious about serial killers like me, you will consider this as one of the best movies based on true events.
THIS SERIES IS CREATED BY WANDERING THROUGH THE SHELVES
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