Hollywood History: Biopics and Their Power

Erin Casey, Pop Culture Editor (Class of 2026)

Hollywood History: Biopics and Their Power 

The world of Hollywood holds many bright stars and shining moments. In a world of a constant influx of media, biographical films or biopics have consistently risen to the top. From movie stars to historical figures, these films highlighting the truth of its topic have risen to the top of award shows and smashed box office records. What makes audiences return time and time again?

Biopics dramatize reality. Though they tell true stories, not every scene is completely accurate. This exaggeration is used to continue the flow of the story line and keep engagement, however, even with exaggeration, one feels they are watching something fully authentic. We live in a time where authenticity is very desirable. Though they may not be completely factual, biopics provide a slight realness that the audience craves. They provide an understanding of how a particular figure not just shaped their field, but the world around them. 

Biopics appeal to the emotions of the viewer. These films offer their audience a look into moments that went unnoticed in the past. On this level, viewers can now relate to a humongous movie star or fearless military leader. Biopics also connect past to present. When the Elton John story, Rocketman, debuted, the movie sparked not only a resurgence in John’s long-time fans, but influenced a new generation of music listeners. 

One may think that these biographical films are best meant to retell the stories of movie stars and rock and roll icons, but the area  which biopics cover is vast. These films tend to break box office records thanks in part to their amazing production quality, as well as the dedication of the actors who play out these stories. 

As of 2023, Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer grossed over $975 million in the box office, holding the record for highest grossing film. Coming in at a close second is directors Bryan Singer and Dexter Fletcher’s Bohemian Rhapsody, which grossed just over $900 million in the box office. The continuous success of these films has concretely ensured that biopics will continue to prosper in the film industry.

Biopics continue to prevail because of their storytelling ability that is hard to achieve in other genres. As the audience experiences the successes and shortcomings of their idols, the bridge between past and present is built, reminding their viewers of the importance of these valuable stories.