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Biopic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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biopic

[หˆbaษชoสŠpษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

genre of film

A biopic, short for biographical picture, is a film that dramatizes the life of a historical figure, celebrity, or significant person. These films often portray key events and milestones in the subject's life, providing insight into their personality, struggles, and achievements. Biopics aim to educate viewers about the individualโ€™s impact on society while also providing entertainment. The narrative may incorporate both factual events and dramatized scenarios to create a compelling story.

Synonyms

biographical film, biographical movie, documentary film, life story.

Examples of usage

  • The new biopic about Marie Curie has received critical acclaim.
  • He starred in a biopic that detailed the life of the famous musician.
  • The biopic provided a glimpse into the life of one of history's greatest leaders.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cinema History

  • One of the earliest biopics is 'The Life of Emile Zola' (1937), which tells the story of the French writer and his fight for justice.
  • The genre gained popularity in the 1960s and 70s; notable films included 'The Kingโ€™s Speech' and 'Frida,' showcasing diverse historical figures.

Cultural Impact

  • Biopics often spark renewed interest in real-life figures and events, bringing awareness to their contributions.
  • They can influence public perception, sometimes leading to debates about historical accuracy and portrayal of real events.

Awards and Recognition

  • Numerous biopics have received Academy Awards, like 'Ray' (2004), which honored Jamie Foxx for his role as Ray Charles.
  • The genre frequently competes in Best Actor and Best Actress categories due to powerful performances in portraying iconic characters.

Controversies

  • Some biopics face criticism for inaccuracies; filmmakers often take creative liberties that can misrepresent the subject.
  • Disputes can arise over the portrayal of living individuals, especially if they disagree with how they or others are depicted.

Origin of 'biopic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'biopic' combines 'bio' from 'biography' and 'pic,' short for 'picture' or 'film.'
  • The first recorded use of 'biopic' dates back to the 1930s when it referred to films based on the lives of famous people.

The term 'biopic' originated in the early 20th century as a shorthand for 'biographical picture.' The first examples of this genre can be traced back to silent films that depicted the lives of famous individuals, often with an educational intent. The concept gained significant traction in Hollywood during the mid-20th century as filmmakers sought to dramatize the rich stories of influential figures. Over the decades, biopics have evolved, with filmmakers focusing not only on well-known personalities but also on lesser-known stories that deserve attention. The genre has produced critically acclaimed films covering a wide array of subjects, from music legends to political figures, showcasing the diverse tapestry of human experience. The term 'biopic' is now widely recognized and encompasses a variety of storytelling styles, including dramatized re-enactments and documentary-like narratives.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,098, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.