Films based on true stories

People experience things every day, and sometimes those things are so interesting or exciting that it's made into a movie. There are a lot of movies and series that are based on a true story. Often these movies are extra exciting or interesting because someone has actually experienced this. In some cases this can be fun, but also sad. Either way, the story will inspire you. At New Faith Network, only the best Christian-friendly movies and series have been selected to stream on the platform. In addition, everything is checked by our editors so that you van enjoy hours of content on NFN carefree!

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Popular Films based on true stories

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1.I Am Potential

Rating:
★★★★★

I Am Potential is a story based on the true story of Patrick Henry Hughes. A boy born without eyes and with underdeveloped joints, preventing him from every being able to walk. But he also has one big dream: to be a part of a real marching band. While his family puts all their own needs aside to help Patrick reach his dream - his father working extra hours to cover the medical bills for instance and even selling his car to stay afloat - Patrick is fighting against all odds to learn to play the piano, the trumpet, and even learn to sing. Will his big dream become a reality?

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2.Kinga Bán

Rating:
★★★★★

In memoriam: Kinga Bán On Monday, May 6, we received the hugely sad news that Kinga Bán died. She died from the effects of cancer - a disease she had been fighting for a long time. We remind Kinga of her beautiful music, her strength and her perseverance. Our thoughts are with the family, family and friends of Kinga. Remember us and listen to her beautiful music. In 2018 we interviewed Kinga about her life, her music, her family and her illness.

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3.Sabina

Rating:
★★★★★

De ambitieuze, wereldse atheïst Sabina transformeert tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog tot een van de grootste christelijke vrouwen van de 20e eeuw. Ze was een christen met een joodse achtergrond die haar leven riskeert om haar vijanden te helpen. Een waargebeurd verhaal over Bijbelse liefde en vergeving dat miljoenen mensen over de hele wereld heeft geïnspireerd.

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4.Amish Grace

Rating:
★★★★★

What looks like an ordinary day in October 2006 for the Amish community Nickel Mines, turns into a nightmare when Charlie Robert decides to open fire at the local Amish school, because he is angry with God. His deed kills 5 children, wounding 5 more. The shooter kills himself after the incident. When journalists gather at the community and express their anger towards this act of terror, the Amish community itself is more busy with finding forgiveness. Soon, focus of the media shifts from criticizing the shooter to criticizing the community for their unconditional forgiveness towards the shooter and the way they are reaching out to his widow to show support. One of the mothers, Ida Graber, who lost her daughter in the shooting is also having trouble finding forgiveness as she struggles with grief. But when she finds out what her daughter asked God just moments before the end, her vision on this might change after all. A gripping film based on a true story.

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5.Behind the Movement

Rating:
★★★★★

On December 1st 1955, in Montgomery Alabama, Rosa Parks made history on a public bus by defying the racial segregation laws. Her bravery initiated the Montgomery Bus Boycott organised by Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. The movement brought together a number of everyday individuals who showed extraordinary courage by taking a stand for their civil rights and call for equality. This films tells an inspiring and poignant story, based on historical events, that shows the power of faith, courage and community.

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6.The Hiding Place

Rating:
★★★★★

The Hiding Place is a historical film that depicts the harrowing story of Corrie ten Boom. During the Second World War the evangelist and her sister worked for the resistance from their father's watchmaker shop. But they were betrayed, arrested and taken away to a concentration camp. In captivity their only means of survival was holding on to their faith.

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7.Until Forever

Rating:
★★★★★

It's love at first sight for Michael and Michelle. Their relationship is held together by laughter, love and faith. But when Michael is diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia their bonds are tested. The film is based on the true story of Michael Boyum, who married his high school sweetheart Michelle Larson six weeks before he died. Until Forever is an honest, sweet and deeply moving film. "Until Forever is a film about the strength of love in the midst of fear, the endurance of hope in the midst of loss, and the reality of faith in the midst of doubt." - The Dove Foundation

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8.De Tien van Renesse

Rating:
★★★★★

The "Tien van Renesse" is a documentary telling the story about ten men, hung by the Germans in December of 1944, after they deliberately make registers disappear and conspire with the enemy. Together with surviving relatives, this documentary takes a look on these atrocities and how it changed their lives forever. It shows how an escape attempt of 17 men from the resistance completely fails, of which only seven get away and the other ten get caught. Town Clerk C. Lazonder has to watch hopelessly as his ten friends are hanged, after which the same faith awaits himself. The Germans leave the bodies hanging for 24 hours in order to scare the people, relatives don't get the chance to say goodbye or even bury the bodies as they're being thrown into mass graves, and their homes are cleared or burned to the ground.

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9.Extraordinary

Rating:
★★★★★

This film is based on the true marriage story of ultra-marathonrunner David and his wife Nancy. After years of competitive running, David and his family pay a high price. Open-heart surgery and damaged knees cause Nancy to be ready for David to put away his running shows forever and focus on his family again. But David isn't ready for that just yet. He feels that he's being 'called by God' to inspire people one more time and run one last run. One that is only a mere 2,900 miles long, straight through America from California to New York. Where David felt like he was being guided by God, he starts to question this during this journey because of the many obstacles he has to overcome. Will Davd, and his marriage, make it?

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10.Joni

Rating:
★★★★★

She was young, full of life and only 17 when it happened. A dive in undeep water broke her neck and paralysed her. Joni Eareckson had to endure physical, emotional and mental battles. But Joni is an up in a world of downs. Joni Eareckson takes on her own lead role with impressive skill. Her honest acting style makes it seem as though we are right there when it's happening. Joni is an unforgettable true story that has inspired millions.

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11.Nothing Wasted

Rating:
★★★★★

The incredible, real-life story of Bruce Roberts, a man who lost his parents at the age of eight in a tragic crime. His story is one of pain and brokenness that transformed into a story of redemption and hope when Bruce came into contact with the truth of the gospel.

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12.Rescued

Rating:
★★★★★

Inspired by true life events, Rescued is a faith-based story that carefully gathers and meshes the lives of two brothers, bridged together by the incredible force of love, forming the story of inner struggle and faith.

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13.Return to the Hiding Place

Rating:
★★★★★

During the Second World War, in Holland, Corrie ten Boom drafted a secret resistance army of untrained university students who navigated a deadly labyrinth of hijackings, rescue missions, and underground networks in order to save and transport over 880 Jewish people in their panicked exodus from death. This thrilling, true tale of young people daring to resist one of history’s cruelest tyrants attests that a brave, faithful few can change the tide of history.

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14.Take Two

Rating:
★★★★★

Clay Bauer is a Los Angeles filmmaker who has hit rock bottom. He has flashbacks of the various questionable life choices he made that brought him to this point. One of the memories features the moment Clay discovers he has a daughter, who is being raised in a very unstable and dangerous environment. In order to rebuild his life Clay attends support group meetings and subsequently befriends a religious man named Roy. Roy helps Clay by giving him sage advice and find his faith in God. The heart-wrenching film is based on a true story that underscores the importance of faith during rehabilitation. Please note: viewer discretion is advised due to some graphic content.

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15.His only son

Rating:
★★★★★

Experience a powerful retelling of the Biblical saga in 'His Only Son,' a gripping narrative from the Book of Genesis that brings to life the momentous journey of Abraham and Isaac. When Abraham receives a divine message demanding the unimaginable sacrifice of his only son, he is torn between his unwavering faith and his love as a father. As he embarks on a three-day journey to the mountain of Moriah, accompanied by his son Isaac and two loyal servants, Abraham is fraught with internal struggle, questioning God's promise of countless descendants. This cinematic masterpiece is punctuated by poignant flashbacks to Abraham's early days, where he first heard God's call to leave his homeland. With the miraculous birth of Isaac after long years of empty waiting, the stakes become heart-wrenchingly real. 'His Only Son' delves deep into profound themes of obedience, faith, and divine providence, encouraging audiences to examine their own trust in God's plans amidst life's uncertainties. Witness a testament to God's unyielding faithfulness and the ultimate test of Abraham's devotion in this soul-stirring film. A moving tribute to enduring faith, 'His Only Son' is more than a retelling—it's an exploration of God's enduring covenant with us.

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16.Born to win

Rating:
★★★★★

Born to Win is based on the inspiring true story of Leon Terblanche, a tale of faith, hardship, and redemption set against the backdrop of North Africa. Derived from pastor Leon Terblanche's autobiography, this film chronicles Leon's tumultuous journey from an abusive home to finding refuge and brotherhood with a kind Christian woman known as 'Mama.' Despite a challenging childhood, Leon grows up to be a compassionate teacher at Carpe Diem, a school for handicapped students, yet struggles with personal faith and a crumbling marriage. Tensions arise at home with his wife Elmarie, but a significant turn of events comes when his daughter Brigitte encourages him to rekindle his faith. Faced with a life-altering trial following a tragic car accident involving his family, Leon must choose to trust in God's plan or give in to despair. Born to Win delivers a powerful message of hope and perseverance, highlighting the importance of trusting in divine plans even amidst life's most challenging trials. This true story is a reminder that God never abandons us, reassuring audiences that He guides us to where we need to be. Dive into Leon's riveting journey of faith and transformation with 'Born to Win.'

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17.I Can Only Imagine

Rating:
★★★★★

This christian film, based on true events, follows the life of Bart Millard. Growing up in a turbulent household with an alcoholic father, young Bart tries to find his escape in music. Supported by his mother and grandmother, his father doesn't want anything to know about these dreams of his. When after a football injury, Bart enters his high school's Glee-club, he discovers a surprising gift. Leaving his home behind to go on an adventure filled with music, he thinks he's also leaving his troubles from the past behind. But even after all these years and all these miles away from home, Bart is still tormented by the pain and rejection from his youth. A visit back home forces him to face his father and all painful memories they share. When is father eventually dies from cancer, he writes the megahit "I Can Only Imagine".

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18.Lonesome Dove Church

John Shepherd is an itinerant preacher with dreams of building his own church. When his estranged son Isaac is accused of robbery and murder, John puts his faith and future on the line by coming to Isaac's defense, facing off against a cold- blooded killer in a guns-blazing stand for redemption.

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19.God, Get us to Romania

Based on a true story. In 1991 a preacher, his wife, and six children, flew from Washington State to Portugal, and then by trains to Romania. This resulted in one comical calamity after another. But when they crossed into Eastern Europe, it became like a tense roller coaster ride. And at the border of Romania there is an unexpected ending.

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20.Don't Say My Name

Inspired by true events, Don't Say My Name tells the story of human trafficking survivor Adriana, after she bravely escapes her captors. We'll follow her harrowing journey of survival as she navigates the road to recovery.

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21.My Many Sons

Based on the true life story of the legendary college basketball coah Don Meyer. For over 30 years coach Don trained his gifted players in a loving but firm manner. He shaped them to be the best in every possible way. Following a severe road accident Coach Don shows his team the true meaning of perseverance.

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22.Spurgeon - The People's Preacher

An innocent country boy from The Fens goes to London where, as one of her most influential people, he wins the love and respect of a nation. His strong principles, however, go against the nature of culture. If he continues to hold on to it, he will be mocked by the media and become isolated - and saddened. This powerful, inspiring docudrama faithfully brings CH Spurgeon and the time in which this folk preacher lived to life and follows his trials and triumphs with historical accuracy.

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23.Bonhoeffer: Agent of Grace

In a Lutheran church in the United States the inner circle of Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer advises him not to return to Germany. However, a doctor insists he must return because of his religious beliefs. Pastor Bonhoeffer heads back to Germany knowing he is at risk of being persecuted by the Nazis.

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24.A Promise to Astrid

Astrid is an elderly lady who roams around the neighbourhood. The local community deems her to be somewhat of an unconventional character. But they are unaware of the fact that Astrid is a selfless individual with an incredible gift destined for a greater purpose. After a car accident the Tourville family is at a loss. Luckily for them Astrid comes to their aid. Based on a true story that was initially published as a novel written by Mike Tourville. The writer actually experienced the story with his family! A heartfelt film about generosity and kindness.

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25.Why She Smiles

'Why She Smiles' tells the inspiring true story of 34-year old Jamie Sorum, who battles Huntington's Disease. Huntington's Disease is a rare, incurable neurological disease in which one simultaneously experiences symptoms of ALS, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's. 'Why She Smiles' raises awareness of the necessity of finding a cure for Huntington's, and highlights Jamie's unfaltering ability to face each day with hope, joy, and bravery.

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26.Martin Luther: The Idea That Changed the World

500 years ago, Martin Luther triggered a seismic upheaval that rocked the western world-with an impact that continues to reverberate to this day. This entertaining new film follows the great adventure story of Luther's life, packed with political intrigue, kidnappings, secret hideouts, and life-or-death showdowns. At the same time, it's a story about the most important questions of life. "Who am I?" "What is my purpose?" "How do I get right with God?"

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27.Hansie

This is an inspiring story of one of the greatest crickett players to ever live. Hansie Cronje is the captain of the South African crickett team. He helps them win against the odds and he gives the glory to God. This is a story of forgiveness and grace as it shows how Hansie gambles and makes money but realizes later on he needs to change his life.

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28.Dispatched

Based on a true story, Officer Carl Thomas was revered by his colleagues for his fearlessness at going after the bad guys, but Thomas has a dark side. The story of Carl shows how God changed the heart of a street hardened cop into an ambassador of God's love, and how through God, an entire community was changed.

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29.A Patriot's Day

Based on true stories, "The Patriot's Day" follows the lives of three different American soldiers. Set during the Iraq war, the film helps shed light on the mental health issues many US military men and women deal with on a daily basis.

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30.Paul's Promise

Paul's Promise is the inspiring true story of Paul Holderfield, former racist firefighter turned pastor who started one of the first integrated churches in the American South. It's one man's journey to hope and healing during a troubled time in our Nation's history that resulted in one man's decision to serve God and stand up to injustice

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31.I Will Rise

Follow the story of Christine C. McDonald, a survivor who was commercially exploited for 20 years and hear field experts who fight the horrific industry we call Human Trafficking.

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32.John Wesley - The Faith That Spaked the Methodist Movement

This documentary delves into the world of Christian leader John Wesley. This church leader changed the church forever. A beautiful and educational portrait with new insights. Want to see more about John Wesley? Then also check out the feature film that was made about his life.

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33.John Wycliffe Morningstar

In a world emerging from the Black Death, one ambitious priest faces the fury of a corrupt church as he struggles to maintain his integrity. "Morningstar" tells the story of John Wycliffe: maybe the most influential Christian of the medieval world.

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34.Melita

The message of the movie ”Melita” is an exceptional one. It’s the story about missionaries who brought the gospel to Nigeria. Never before has a gospel movie on this subject been made.

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35.Blanco

Based on a true story. Eddie Calderon lives his life on the edge. Soon, he reaches a point where he can't separate good from evil, with all the consequences that entails.

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36.Lifemark

David is a teenager who is ashamed of his adoption. A serious illness and the subsequent surgery make him think about family. Then he turns 18 and receives a letter from his biological mother, Melissa. She wants to meet him. David considers the request and ultimately decides to accept it. He also wants to meet his biological father, Brian. David thinks that learning their stories will help him put his life into the right context. Also watch [I Lived on Parker Avenue](video/1-0-i-lived-on-parker-avenue). The true story that the movie Lifemark is based on.

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37.Asbury Revival: Desperate for More

On Feburary 8th some students at Asbury University lingered after chapel to continue worshiping God. And they just kept going! The outpouring went on for 16 days continuously. The outpouring drew people from all over the US and the entire world, including Brazil, the Philippines and Singapore to name a few. What the Holy Spirit started at Asbury spread to over 30 other college campuses. It has also spread to other parts of the world including Korea and the Philippines.

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38.Miracle at Manchester

"Based on true events, 'The Miracle of Manchester' tells the story of a community coming together to orchestrate a miracle for a teenager battling an aggressive form of brain cancer. Simultaneously, two men find their own restoration on his journey to recovery, and a father rediscovers his faith."

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39.Ends of The Earth

Imagine flying over breath-taking landscapes only to land on an airstrip hand-dug by local villagers on a remote mountain deep in the jungle. It sounds like an adventure movie, but it's real life for the pilots of Mission Aviation Fellowship.

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40.The Slave Trader - Amazing Grace

The story of the British slave trader John Newton, who traveled to West Africa and experienced events that inspired him to write the most famous song in the world, Amazing Grace.

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41.My Christmas Soldier

It is Christmas Eve 1943. A small town in Georgia suffers from the war. The 11-year-old Gordy and his sister Priscilla wait for their father at the train station, where they feel the fear of the enemy. Then a train with German prisoners of war arrives. Gordy dares to go to the train and befriends a young German soldier, Hans. Through the hymn Silent Night, they learn the true meaning of peace on Earth. A story based on true events.

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42.Silent Night

In 1818, Joseph Mohr, the new assistant priest in Oberndorf, Austria, clashes with his superior by involving local outcasts in a German-speaking choir, challenging church norms. Facing disciplinary threats, Mohr must choose between leaving or embracing the true meaning of Christmas Eve.

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43.End of the Spear

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44.I Still Believe

The true story of Christian music star Jeremy Camp and his journey of love and loss that seeks to prove there is always hope.

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45.Still got Joy

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46.The passion of the Christ

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47.I heard the bells

I Heard the Bells is a poignant film based on the true story of Henry Longfellow, a renowned poet whose life is turned upside down by tragedy and war. Set against the backdrop of a festive Christmas Eve, the Longfellow family is enveloped in the warmth of the holiday spirit, until the looming threat of war and a devastating accident shatter their world. As Henry grapples with the grief of losing his beloved wife Fanny in a tragic fire, he faces the challenges of a father-son conflict as his son Charley enlists in the war despite his disapproval. The touching narrative unfolds with heart-wrenching moments and reveals the profound impact of music and faith. Inspired by Charley's courage and his own journey through grief, Henry pens the timeless Christmas carol 'I Heard the Bells,' showcasing the transformative power of words and God's grace in times of despair. Explore this moving tale of loss, resilience, and hope in 'I Heard the Bells.'

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48.Self: When You've Tried Everything

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49.23 blast

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