Best movies you didn’t know were based on true stories

14. The Notebook

The Notebook is an amazing love story that can be enjoyed by all – boy meets girl, love across social divides, dates by the water, and it all feels natural. Sometimes you just need a straightforward, beautifully told love story, and The Notebook delivers exactly that. According to the author, Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook is based on the story of his ex-wife's grandparents. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

13. The Sound of Music

The Sound of Music is based on the real story of Maria von Trapp who grew from a young nun to the matriarch of a singing family. The true story adds depth to this beloved musical, turning it into a powerful tale of love, resilience, and the courage to stand against oppression. | © 20th Century Studios

12. The Greatest Showman

The Greatest Showman is a sentimental and visually stunning movie that avoids any clichés. The film has incredible pacing, clever transitions, and a charismatic lead performance from Hugh Jackman that makes the movie evoke genuine emotions. | © 20th Century Fox

11. The Strangers

The Strangers might have a straightforward story, but its direction, editing, and pacing elevate it to something unforgettable. The haunting atmosphere is what truly stands out, making it the perfect late-night watch that will creep you out with its unnerving visuals and relentless tension. Knowing the movie was inspired by real life makes it even more unnerving... | © Universal Pictures

10. Jaws

There are a lot of movies from past eras that don't hold up over time, but this one does. It's just as suspenseful as it was in 1975. The best reason to watch it is Robert Shaw’s unforgettable performance – characters like his are rare in modern cinema, bringing a raw, magnetic presence that elevates the entire film. And, back in 1916, there was a series of eerily similar shark attacks in New Jersey. | © Universal Pictures

9. Hustlers

Hustlers is an interesting movie based on real stories of strippers who turned the tables on Wall Street clients after the 2008 financial crisis. It was a career-defining role for Lopez, which earned her talks about Oscar nominations, as well as acclaim from critics. | © STX Entertainment

8. Pain & Gain

Pain & Gain tells the true, jaw-dropping story of 1990s bodybuilders whose pursuit of the American Dream spirals into an absurd mix of crime and chaos. Wahlberg, Johnson, and Mackie deliver a perfect blend of humor and intensity, bringing this wild tale of misguided ambition vividly to life. | © Paramount Pictures

7. Cocaine Bear

Cocaine Bear is exactly what it seems: a bear on cocaine going crazy in the woods. Surprisingly, it's a very great movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat laughing hysterically. | © Universal Pictures

6. Chicago

Chicago brings true crime to new heights by being thoroughly determined to be a full-blooded musical. This musical masterpiece blends sharp satire, incredible performances, and infectious songs that leave you craving a live theater experience. | © Miramax Films

5. Oppenheimer

You'll have to have your wits and train your brain before watching Oppenheimer, the unique cinematic that tells the story behind the creation of the first atomic bomb. It captures the moral complexity of Oppenheimer's journey – how a man driven by science ended up changing the fate of humanity forever. | © Universal Pictures

4. The Revenant

The Revenant is based on the incredible true story of Hugh Glass, a frontiersman who survived a bear attack and fought his way through the wilderness for revenge. The film's breathtaking cinematography and natural lighting capture the raw beauty of nature, and Leonardo DiCaprio delivers an unforgettable, grueling performance that finally earned him his long-deserved Oscar. | © 20th Century Studios

3. The Woman King

The Woman King is based on the real female warrior unit that protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s. It’s not a documentary, so it takes creative liberties – but that doesn’t take away from the stunning visuals and the dedication you can feel from everyone involved. | © Sony Pictures Releasing

2. 50 First Dates

50 First Dates may seem like a typical rom-com, but it's inspired by real life. Drew Barrymore plays Lucy, who suffers from short-term memory loss, meaning every day is a "Groundhog Day" for her, and Adam Sandler has to win her heart over and over again. Lucy's story was inspired by the real life events that happened to Michelle Philpots. | © Sony Pictures Releasing

1. Catch Me If You Can

Catch Me If You Can tells an interesting story about a teenager pulling off impossible cons, from posing as a pilot to a doctor. DiCaprio shines as the charming trickster, with Hanks playing the relentless FBI agent in pursuit. | © DreamWorks Pictures