Michael Jackson’s biopic, “Michael,” is set to release April 24, 2026, and the film will feature Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, portraying him. The trailer has already broken records, reaching 116 million views within the first 24 hours, demonstrating the anticipation a biopic can bring. In a world that craves connection, these films provide it. Biopics create a sense of closeness to people and are a bridge between artistic vision and facts; this makes them a crucial form of film.
Biopics are a way to bring history to life. They are a way to learn about people and events, and through watching the reenactments, a connection can be formed. People have a desire to feel connected to impactful figures, and biopics help do this.
The films also allow for voices to be heard and lesser-known stories to be shown on the big screen. “Hidden Figures” is a film that tells the story of three Black women who worked for NASA in the 1960s. These women played a critical role in sending John Glenn into space, and their story is told in the form of a biopic to acknowledge their brilliant achievements at a time when equality was scarce. Many technological advancements are attributed to women, yet their stories remained quiet. This was until biopics such as “Hidden Figures” gave them a voice. This film is an example of a story that was finally being told to a large audience.
Along with teaching and sharing stories, biopics are a way to share music and creativity. Films like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Rocketman” share the stories of powerful musicians and their personal lives alongside worldwide success. The movies feature impactful storylines showing topics like sexuality, disease and heartbreak. Freddie Mercury and Elton John are both held up to a closer lens through these stories, and the films share the music of a past time with a whole new audience of viewers. Of course, the films hold inaccuracies, but regardless, people got to hear classic songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen and “I’m Still Standing” by John in a modern film and be reminded of why they are so powerful.
Truth can also be told through these films, even the hard truth. Seeing real people and learning history through art can bring reflection forth. “Oppenheimer” brought a complicated story to life about violence, mental health and humanity. The film was a huge success in how it addressed the harder topics and created room for human reflection. It emphasized to a modern audience how important it is not to repeat the mistakes of the past, especially when it comes to nuclear weaponry and violence.
Biopics have their setbacks, as does any form of entertainment. Many have inaccuracies meant to create a more Hollywood-aligned piece. There may also be issues with public figures not approving of their portrayal, or maybe not even being asked if the story is OK to create. Pamela Anderson, for example, did not permit the television series “Pam & Tommy” to be made. This isn’t OK, and people deserve to approve of their representation to the world. However, having a story told through film is a way to learn about people from an entertainment standpoint, and a necessary type of film.
Biopics, though not always completely accurate, can bring humanity to life. Fake characters and fictional stories are beautiful and bring imagination to life, but it is vital for real life to be represented in a form of art. Biopics are a wonderful and impactful kind of film, and they teach us about history and those who impact our passions.
Kyra Dapore is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Kyra know by emailing her at kd364521@ohio.edu.
