There’s something compelling about a movie that’s based on a true story. Not the sort that’s gussied up for drama, but one that captures the unvarnished path of an actual person—imperfect, resolute, and indelible. Biopics, when well done, remind us what human beings are capable of, particularly when they’re up against impossible circumstances.
Here are five exceptional biopics—both from India and globally—that do more than entertain. They inspire, leave you shaken, and make you believe in the strength of the human spirit.
1. Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Who it’s about: Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of Queen. From modest beginnings to one of the all-time greatest rock legends, Bohemian Rhapsody is a sound, soul, and self-discovery rollercoaster. Rami Malek transforms into Freddie Mercury in a hauntingly mesmerising way. The film does not gloss over his struggles—whether with fame, identity, or sickness—but neither does it shy away from his genius, charisma, and inimitable voice. The recreated Live Aid performance alone is worth watching.
2. A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Who it’s about: John Nash, a math genius with schizophrenia. Not all geniuses have it easy, and A Beautiful Mind illustrates just how delicate brilliance can be. The movie walks you through John Nash’s life, struggling with delusions while revolutionising mathematics. Russell Crowe’s performance is sensitive and human, making this movie not only a celebration of intellect, but of determination and love despite mental illness.
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3. 12th Fail (2023)
Who it’s about: Manoj Kumar Sharma, from school failure to IPS glory. One of the most humanly rooted Indian films in a long time, 12th Fail is a boy from a small village who fails Class 12—and then manages to end up as one of the country’s highest-ranking IPS officers. What makes the film so remarkable is its integrity. It does not sensationalise success or poverty; it just reveals a young man who does not give up, no matter how hard his poverty tries to slow him down. Vikrant Massey’s performance lingers sublimely well after the roll of credits.Â
4. Rocketry: The Nambi Effect (2022)
About whom: Nambi Narayanan, who was falsely charged with espionage. Picture giving your life to science, only to be arrested by your own nation. That’s what happened to ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan. Rocketry doesn’t just tell the tale of the false accusations and betrayal he suffered; it points to the price of injustice on a man’s reputation and family. R. Madhavan not only performs but also directs the film with sincerity and restraint, giving one of the most significant Indian biopics in recent years.
5. Manjhi: The Mountain Man (2015)
Who it’s about: Dashrath Manjhi, who cut a road through a mountain using only hand tools. After losing his wife from denial of medical treatment, Dashrath Manjhi set it as his task to carve out a road through a mountain—all by himself. No machines. Only a chisel, a hammer, and 22 years of unimaginable determination. Manjhi: The Mountain Man relates this near-mythical tale in earthy, raw realism. Nawazuddin Siddiqui brings understated intensity to the part, demonstrating that love, anger, and resolve can shift mountains—literally.
In Closing
The genius of biopics is that they remind us: greatness doesn’t always result from glory. It sometimes results from suffering, silence, persistence, and the capability to keep on going. These five films are not just films—they’re legacies, experienced and re-experienced on film. If you’re in the mood for something that touches your heart and agitates your brain, any of these is an excellent place to begin.
Written by Shubham Choudary