Biopics, or biographical pictures, hold a significant place in cinema, offering audiences compelling narratives rooted in real lives. These films serve as powerful tools for preserving historical events, celebrating cultural icons, and exploring the intricacies of remarkable individuals. With projects like the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic starring Jaafar Jackson and The Florist, featuring Carla Gugino as Vivien Leigh, biopics continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The Florist is also noteworthy for addressing mental illness on-screen, portraying Leigh’s struggles with bipolar disorder. But, What Is A Biopic, and what makes them so compelling?
Defining the Biopic: A Blend of Biography and Cinema
The term “biopic” is a portmanteau of “biographical” and “picture.” It describes a film genre that dramatizes the life story of a non-fictional or historically-based person or people. These films often focus on significant achievements, defining moments, personal struggles, and complex relationships of their subjects, who can range from political figures and musicians to artists, athletes, and scientists. The best biopics offer a blend of information and entertainment, illuminating the personalities behind the public figures. Many have received critical acclaim, earning nominations and awards at prestigious film festivals and ceremonies like the Oscars.
Here are a few notable examples of biographical performances in film:
Sofía Vergara as Griselda Blanco in Griselda (2023)
Netflix’s Griselda is a biographical crime drama miniseries that chronicles the life of Griselda Blanco, the infamous Colombian drug lord known as the “Godmother of Cocaine.” Sofía Vergara delivers a powerful performance as Blanco, portraying her rise in the Miami drug scene, her ruthless pursuit of power and wealth, and her eventual downfall marked by paranoia and betrayal.
Vergara, recognized for her comedic roles, showcases her range as an actress in this Spanish-language project. The cast also includes Matthew Bellows, a faculty member at NYFA Los Angeles, portraying DEA Special Agent Bob Palombo, NYFA Miami Acting for Film alum Sally Nieves, and Orlando Pineda, an NYFA Alum, who plays Dixon Blanco, Griselda’s eldest son.
Pineda discussed his preparation for the role in a Q&A with NYFA: “I read absolutely everything there is on Griselda Blanco and her legacy, including family, business, and private life… I worked on my character’s intentions, motivations, obstacles to build an arc.”
David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma (2014)
Ava DuVernay’s Selma focuses on Martin Luther King Jr.’s campaign for equal voting rights, culminating in the historic march from Selma to Montgomery. This film is considered one of the best movies about Martin Luther King, Jr, offering a powerful and moving portrayal of the Civil Rights Movement and King’s central role. The film received an Oscar for Best Original Song.
Kingsley Ben-Adir as Bob Marley in Bob Marley: One Love (2024)
Bob Marley: One Love, directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, celebrates the life and legacy of the reggae icon. Kingsley Ben-Adir embodies Bob Marley, with Lashana Lynch portraying his wife, Rita. The film explores Marley’s journey from overcoming adversity to becoming a global music sensation. Ben-Adir captures Marley’s essence, including mastering Jamaican patois. NYFA Filmmaking camp alum Michael Gandolfini stars in the film as Howard Bloom.
The film highlights Marley’s peace concert plans in 1976 Kingston amidst political unrest, his move to London following an assassination attempt, and the creation of his influential “Exodus” album. Through flashbacks, the film showcases Marley’s Rastafarian beliefs as reflected in his timeless music.
Natalie Portman as Jacqueline Kennedy in Jackie (2016)
In Jackie, Natalie Portman delivers a captivating performance as Jacqueline Kennedy, focusing on the aftermath of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. The film offers an intimate look at Jackie’s grief, strength, and resilience during a tragic period in American history. Portman’s portrayal earned widespread critical acclaim, capturing the nuances of Jackie’s complex emotions. The film garnered three Oscar nominations.
Bradley Cooper as Leonard Bernstein in Maestro (2023)
Maestro, a biographical romantic drama directed by and starring Bradley Cooper, delves into the relationship between Leonard Bernstein and his wife, Felicia Montealegre, played by NYFA Guest Speaker Carey Mulligan. The film, co-written by Cooper and Josh Singer, explores the complexities of their personal and professional lives.
Lex Scott Davis as Toni Braxton in Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart (2016)
Based on Toni Braxton’s memoir, Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart, this biopic stars NYFA alum Lex Scott Davis as the iconic singer. Directed by Vondie Curtis Hall, the film offers a personal and in-depth view of Braxton’s life, career, and struggles, providing a unique perspective through her own words.
Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe in Hidden Figures (2016)
Hidden Figures tells the story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three African-American women mathematicians who played crucial roles at NASA during the Space Race. The film highlights their remarkable contributions, breaking racial and gender barriers, and celebrating their resilience and brilliance. The film was nominated for three Oscars.
Austin Butler as Elvis Presley in Elvis (2022)
Austin Butler’s portrayal of Elvis Presley in Elvis earned him a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Drama. The film, shot in Gold Coast, Australia, with the help of NYFA Australia students, garnered eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.
Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Blonde (2022)
Ana de Armas stars as Marilyn Monroe in Blonde, directed by Andrew Dominik. The film, which received an NC-17 rating, explores the complex life of Monroe, examining her public image and private struggles. According to Variety, de Armas received a standing ovation for her performance.
Salma Hayek as Frida Kahlo in Frida (2002)
Salma Hayek portrays Frida Kahlo in Julie Taymor’s Frida, exploring Kahlo’s tumultuous life, art, and relationships. Hayek’s performance captures Kahlo’s passion, pain, and spirit. The film won two Oscars for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.
Jennifer Lopez as Selena Quintanilla in Selena (1997)
Selena, directed by Gregory Nava, chronicles the life of Tejano music superstar Selena Quintanilla, played by Jennifer Lopez. The film showcases her rise to fame, cultural impact, and tragic death. It received critical acclaim for Lopez’s performance and portrayal of Selena’s legacy.
RBG (2018)
RBG, a documentary focusing on the life and career of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, highlights her impact on gender equality and the law. NYFA Documentary and cinematography instructor Claudia Raschke was the director of photography. The film was nominated for two Oscars.
Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody (2019)
Bohemian Rhapsody tells the story of Queen and Freddie Mercury. Rami Malek’s portrayal of Mercury earned him an Oscar for Best Actor.
Madina Nalwanga as Phiona Mutesi in Queen of Katwe (2016)
Queen of Katwe follows Phiona Mutesi, a Ugandan girl who becomes a chess prodigy. The film highlights her journey and her family’s resilience.
Benedict Cumberbatch as Alan Turing in The Imitation Game (2014)
Benedict Cumberbatch stars as Alan Turing in The Imitation Game, exploring Turing’s genius, struggles, and impact on modern computing. The film won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Additional Biopic Films
- Erin Brockovich (2000)
- Ray (2004)
- Cesar Chavez (2014)
- Wild (2014)
- Get on Up (2014)
- 42 (2013)
- Malcolm X (1992)
- The Iron Lady (2011)
- The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Bringing Characters to Life
Biopics offer a window into the lives of extraordinary individuals, inspiring and educating audiences. Whether you aspire to create your own film or embody a captivating character, consider exploring NYFA’s filmmaking or acting for film programs!
