15 Underrated Biopics Worth Watching Again
Biopics, or biographical films, bring the stories of real-life individuals to the screen, often showing their challenges, victories, and lasting influence. While some biopics dominate the conversation, there are others that don’t get the credit they deserve. These films often offer a fresh take on the lives of remarkable people, with impressive performances and gripping stories. If you’re looking to discover something new or revisit an underrated classic, these biopics should be on your radar.
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The Doors
Released in 1991, The Doors directed by Oliver Stone, is a biographical film about the legendary rock band and its charismatic lead singer, Jim Morrison. The film explores Morrison’s rise to fame, his inner struggles, and the turbulence surrounding his untimely death. Although it has a strong cult following, it is often overlooked when discussing classic music biopics. The portrayal of Morrison by Val Kilmer is both raw and intense, capturing the complexity of his personality. For those interested in the history of rock music and the cultural impact of The Doors, this biopic is definitely worth revisiting.
Despite some critiques, The Doors provides a captivating visual journey into the counterculture of the 1960s. Kilmer’s performance is widely praised, especially for his uncanny resemblance to Morrison’s voice and mannerisms. The film’s psychedelic imagery and strong soundtrack enhance the experience of watching Morrison’s chaotic life unfold. As an often-forgotten gem, it deserves a second look for its artistic direction and performances. If you appreciate music history and films that capture the essence of rock ‘n’ roll, The Doors should not be missed.
The Founder
Released in 2016, The Founder tells the story of Ray Kroc, the man who turned McDonald’s from a small family business into an international fast-food empire. Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Kroc is both ambitious and morally complex, providing a nuanced look at the rise of one of the world’s most recognized brands. While the film received positive reviews, it didn’t receive as much attention as other biopics about business moguls. The Founder explores themes of ambition, greed, and the pursuit of success at any cost, making it a thought-provoking watch. For anyone interested in the business world or the story behind McDonald’s, this film is well worth revisiting.
Keaton’s performance adds depth to a character who is both likable and unlikable, drawing viewers into Kroc’s relentless pursuit of success. The film takes a deep dive into the nature of entrepreneurship, showing both the triumphs and the ethical compromises. Despite being overshadowed by other business-related films, The Founder offers an insightful look at how businesses are built and the complex individuals behind them. The film’s direction and pacing keep the audience engaged as it moves through the decades. For those interested in the story of how McDonald’s became a global phenomenon, this biopic provides a fascinating perspective.
A Beautiful Mind
Released in 2001, A Beautiful Mind tells the inspiring story of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician who struggled with schizophrenia while achieving greatness in his field. Russell Crowe’s portrayal of Nash earned him an Academy Award nomination, but the film didn’t receive as much attention in the years following its release. It beautifully explores the themes of mental illness, love, and personal triumph, making it a film worth revisiting. The movie focuses on Nash’s battle to distinguish between his genius and the world of his hallucinations, providing an emotional and intellectual journey. For those looking for a biopic that offers both emotional depth and intellectual stimulation, this film stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
Despite its accolades, A Beautiful Mind often gets overshadowed by other biopics. The movie’s compelling narrative, supported by a stellar performance from Crowe, brings to life the struggles of one of the 20th century’s most influential minds. The relationships in the film, particularly between Nash and his wife, Alicia, add another layer of depth to the story. The film’s portrayal of mental illness is both sensitive and honest, drawing attention to an issue often overlooked in mainstream media. A Beautiful Mind is a testament to perseverance, and its ability to inspire still holds strong.
Catch Me If You Can
Catch Me If You Can, directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 2002, tells the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a master of deception who successfully committed fraud while evading the FBI. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, the film is both entertaining and insightful, blending comedy and drama effortlessly. Although it was well-received by critics, it is sometimes overshadowed by other classic Spielberg films. DiCaprio’s performance as Abagnale captures the charm and intelligence of the character, making him a character viewers can’t help but root for. For fans of clever con artist stories, this movie remains a hidden gem that’s worth watching again.
The film does an excellent job of balancing suspense with humor, showing the cat-and-mouse game between Abagnale and Agent Hanratty, played by Hanks. The dynamic between the two characters adds a human element to the story, and the 1960s setting adds visual flair. It may not be as iconic as other Spielberg films, but Catch Me If You Can provides an enjoyable, lighthearted view of a real-life criminal mastermind. It’s a fast-paced, well-executed film that mixes comedy with thrilling moments. For those who haven’t revisited this gem in a while, it’s definitely worth watching again.
The Social Network
Released in 2010, The Social Network delves into the creation of Facebook and the personal conflicts surrounding its co-founder, Mark Zuckerberg. Directed by David Fincher and written by Aaron Sorkin, the film explores the story of how Zuckerberg built one of the most influential companies of the modern age, despite personal betrayals and legal battles. Although it received critical acclaim and several awards, its cultural significance has often been overshadowed by the continued rise of Facebook itself. Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal of Zuckerberg is sharp and memorable, offering a glimpse into the mind of a genius whose success came at a high personal cost. For anyone interested in the story behind social media and the rise of the digital age, this biopic is worth revisiting.
Despite its success at the time of release, The Social Network is often overlooked in modern discussions of biographical films. The movie’s fast-paced narrative, paired with an exceptional script, draws viewers into the world of business, technology, and ambition. The performances, particularly by Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield, elevate the film, adding depth to the personal conflicts at its core. The movie’s focus on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by Zuckerberg makes it more than just a business success story-it’s a commentary on ambition, betrayal, and friendship. If you haven’t watched it in a while, The Social Network remains a compelling and relevant film.
The Iron Lady
Released in 2011, The Iron Lady portrays the life of Margaret Thatcher, Britain’s first female prime minister, focusing on her career and personal life. Meryl Streep’s performance as Thatcher earned her an Academy Award, yet the film didn’t achieve the same lasting recognition as other biographical works. The Iron Lady dives into Thatcher’s rise to power, her struggles with politics, and her legacy, providing a complex portrait of a controversial figure. The film’s portrayal of Thatcher’s later years, reflecting on her mental and emotional state, adds an unexpected layer to the story. For those interested in political history and strong performances, this movie is worth revisiting.
The movie offers a nuanced look at a woman who shaped British politics and history, showing both her strengths and the challenges she faced. Streep’s transformation into Thatcher is remarkable, capturing the essence of her character without reducing her to just a political figure. Despite some critiques, The Iron Lady offers a thoughtful exploration of Thatcher’s life that is both personal and political. The film’s pace may feel slow for some viewers, but the depth of Streep’s performance and the film’s introspective nature make it worth watching again. For those fascinated by British politics or Thatcher herself, this film deserves more attention.
Patriots Day
Released in 2016, Patriots Day is a biographical drama that tells the story of the Boston Marathon bombing and the subsequent manhunt for the terrorists responsible. Starring Mark Wahlberg, the film focuses on the real-life events that took place in 2013, capturing the bravery of law enforcement and first responders. Although it did well at the box office, it didn’t gain the same level of widespread recognition as other recent biopics. The movie’s gripping portrayal of the attack and its aftermath, coupled with strong performances, makes it a film worth revisiting. For those interested in real-life heroism and tragedy, Patriots Day is a compelling watch.
While the film is emotionally intense, it’s a testament to the resilience of Boston and its people. The performances by Wahlberg, Kevin Bacon, and John Goodman ground the film in reality, making the viewer feel the urgency and emotions of the situation. The film balances action with emotional depth, offering a personal perspective on the events. Although it might not have reached the same cultural impact as other major films of the year, it remains a powerful depiction of a tragic event. If you haven’t seen Patriots Day yet, it’s worth checking out for its realistic portrayal of courage in the face of terror.
The Post
Released in 2017, The Post tells the story of The Washington Post’s efforts to publish the Pentagon Papers, a classified government report about the Vietnam War. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the film focuses on the newspaper’s publisher, Katharine Graham, played by Meryl Streep, and editor Ben Bradlee, portrayed by Tom Hanks. While the film received critical acclaim, it didn’t gain as much widespread recognition as other political dramas of the time. The tension-filled narrative and timely themes about the importance of free press make The Post a relevant and important film. For those who appreciate films about press freedom and political history, this movie is worth revisiting.
The Post offers an engaging look at the historical moment when the media challenged the government’s secrecy. Streep’s performance as Graham is both powerful and nuanced, showing the strength she found in a male-dominated industry. Hanks, too, provides a solid portrayal of Bradlee, capturing his determination to publish the truth. The film’s pacing is perfect for those who appreciate a strong drama that unfolds with great tension. If you haven’t seen The Post or haven’t watched it in a while, it’s an important and gripping piece of recent history.
Foxcatcher
Foxcatcher, released in 2014, explores the complex and disturbing relationship between Olympic wrestler Mark Schultz and millionaire John du Pont. Directed by Bennett Miller, the film stars Steve Carell as du Pont, Channing Tatum as Schultz, and Mark Ruffalo as Schultz’s brother, Dave. While it garnered critical praise for its performances, particularly Carell’s chilling portrayal of du Pont, the film didn’t receive the same level of recognition as other true-crime dramas. The dark and haunting story, along with the powerful performances, makes this film worth revisiting. If you’re interested in true stories about obsession and tragedy, Foxcatcher delivers a gripping narrative.
The film’s stark portrayal of mental illness, greed, and manipulation keeps the viewer engaged throughout. Carell’s transformation into du Pont is remarkable, showcasing his ability to play more complex, sinister roles. The emotional intensity of the performances, especially Tatum’s, adds to the film’s depth. Although it may be unsettling at times, Foxcatcher is a unique biopic that stands out for its stark atmosphere and memorable acting. It remains an underrated gem in the true-crime and sports genres, with a story that continues to intrigue.
Rocketman
Rocketman, released in 2019, is a musical biopic about the life and career of singer Elton John, starring Taron Egerton in a critically acclaimed performance. The film charts John’s rise to fame, his struggles with addiction, and his personal growth as he found himself both musically and personally. Despite its success, including multiple award wins, it didn’t get the same level of sustained recognition as other musical biopics. The film’s musical numbers and Egerton’s charismatic performance make it a unique take on the typical biopic formula. If you haven’t revisited this vibrant and emotional portrayal of Elton John’s life, it’s definitely worth watching again.
What sets Rocketman apart is its musical approach, blending biographical elements with elaborate, fantastical musical sequences that reflect John’s flamboyant personality and struggles. The film’s use of song lyrics to tell his story adds depth to both the narrative and the emotional arc. Egerton’s performance as John is heartfelt and authentic, capturing the essence of a man who redefined pop music. The colorful visual style and dynamic music sequences make the film visually engaging and enjoyable. Despite being overshadowed by other releases, Rocketman remains an emotional and energetic experience worth experiencing again.
Loving
Loving is a 2016 biographical film about Richard and Mildred Loving, whose interracial marriage led to the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case Loving v. Virginia. The film follows their quiet but determined fight for their right to marry in a time of widespread racial segregation. Despite receiving critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of the Lovings’ story, the film didn’t gain the same cultural impact as other historical dramas. The understated performances by Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga add a deeply emotional layer to the film. For anyone interested in civil rights history, Loving offers a powerful narrative that is both relevant and poignant.
The film’s gentle pacing mirrors the Lovings’ quiet strength and determination in the face of adversity. It highlights their love story while also shedding light on the greater issue of racial equality in America. Loving may not have garnered the same attention as other historical dramas, but its understated yet powerful story is worth revisiting. The film’s intimate portrayal of their personal journey makes it stand out from other courtroom dramas. If you haven’t seen it or haven’t seen it in a while, Loving remains a touching and important film.
The Theory of Everything
Released in 2014, The Theory of Everything tells the inspiring story of physicist Stephen Hawking, focusing on his early years, his diagnosis of ALS, and his groundbreaking work in cosmology. The film stars Eddie Redmayne in a performance that earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. Although it garnered significant praise for its acting and direction, The Theory of Everything is often overshadowed by other biopics. The film beautifully captures both the scientific achievements and personal challenges that defined Hawking’s life. If you’re looking for a biopic that combines science with a deeply personal story, The Theory of Everything is worth revisiting.
What makes this film stand out is its ability to balance Hawking’s professional achievements with the emotional toll of his illness. Redmayne’s transformation into Hawking is remarkable, capturing his physical decline while maintaining the brilliance of his intellect. The film also touches on his relationships with family and colleagues, giving viewers a full picture of his complex life. The understated storytelling allows the viewer to appreciate both his genius and his vulnerability. The Theory of Everything is a deeply moving film that deserves more recognition for its sensitive portrayal of a remarkable man.
Dallas Buyers Club
Dallas Buyers Club, released in 2013, tells the true story of Ron Woodroof, a Texas man diagnosed with AIDS who fights for access to medical treatments not approved by the FDA. Matthew McConaughey’s portrayal of Woodroof won him an Academy Award, but the film often gets overlooked when discussing other major biopics. The movie’s focus on Woodroof’s transformation from a homophobic, rough-around-the-edges character to an advocate for those suffering from AIDS is both inspiring and heartbreaking. The film’s raw, gritty look at the fight for survival in the early years of the AIDS crisis is compelling and deeply emotional. For those who haven’t revisited this one in a while, Dallas Buyers Club is a powerful and important film.
The film’s performances, especially McConaughey and Jared Leto, are incredible, showing the depth of the characters’ struggles with both illness and societal rejection. It also sheds light on the corruption in the medical system and the lengths people will go to when faced with life-threatening circumstances. Despite winning major awards, it didn’t maintain lasting mainstream attention, though it remains a deeply impactful film. McConaughey’s physical transformation for the role only adds to the film’s authenticity and impact. Dallas Buyers Club is a standout biopic that deserves to be revisited for its powerful performances and moving message.
Cinderella Man
Released in 2005, Cinderella Man tells the true story of James J. Braddock, a boxer who rises from poverty during the Great Depression to win the heavyweight title. The film stars Russell Crowe and is directed by Ron Howard, who brings Braddock’s underdog story to life with both grit and heart. Although it was well-received at the time, it has faded somewhat in the public’s memory compared to other sports films. The story of resilience and family devotion is compelling, and Crowe’s performance is both powerful and relatable. For anyone interested in a sports drama with emotional depth, Cinderella Man is a gem worth watching again.
What makes Cinderella Man stand out is its ability to combine sports action with a heartfelt narrative about perseverance and sacrifice. The movie’s portrayal of Braddock’s determination to provide for his family and fight through hardships resonates deeply with audiences. Crowe’s portrayal of Braddock’s strength and vulnerability is balanced with sincerity, making it an emotional watch. Despite its positive reviews, the film often gets overshadowed by more famous boxing movies. If you haven’t seen it recently, this biopic is definitely worth revisiting for its inspiring story and strong performances.
Julia
Julia, released in 1977, is based on Lillian Hellman’s memoir Pentimento and tells the story of her friendship with a woman named Julia, who became involved in anti-Nazi resistance during World War II. The film stars Jane Fonda and Vanessa Redgrave and received critical acclaim, though it did not garner the same attention as other historical dramas. The dynamic between Fonda and Redgrave’s characters explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the courage to fight for justice. Julia is an emotional and inspiring film that shines a light on the often-overlooked heroes of WWII. Despite its lesser visibility, this biopic offers a powerful look at the complexities of friendship and political resistance.
The performances by Fonda and Redgrave are key to the film’s emotional depth, with Redgrave’s portrayal of Julia being especially compelling. Set in both Europe and the United States, the film uses its backdrop to highlight the cultural and political tensions of the time. Although it may not be as well-known as other war-related biopics, Julia remains a touching and thought-provoking film. It addresses the human side of history, focusing on personal connections amid global conflict. For those who appreciate powerful storytelling, this underrated gem is worth watching again.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.