Biopic Movies: Must-Watch True Stories Coming to the Big Screen

The most eagerly awaited biopics coming soon include Michael, Lance Armstrong, Joni Mitchell, Jimmy Stewart, Charles de Gaulle, Jean Moulin, Sylvester Stallone (“I Play Rocky”), and Jair Bolsonaro (“Dark Horse”). These films span music legends, political figures, and sporting icons, with release dates ranging from spring to late 2026 and a mix of theatrical and streaming platforms.

Upcoming Biocities on the Horizon

Michael – Michael Jackson’s Musical Rise and Fall

Set to release on April 24, 2026, Michael is directed by Antoine Fuqua and stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, in his acting debut. The film explores Jackson’s meteoric rise and creative passion, while stirring debate over its tone and omissions . Critics worry it leans too favorable, especially given the estate’s handling of abuse allegations .

Armstrong – The Story of a Fallen Champion

Austin Butler plays disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong in a forthcoming biopic directed by Edward Berger. The film covers his rise, battle with cancer, and dramatic fall, after Armstrong finally approved use of his life rights (albeit without a producing credit) .

Joni Mitchell – A Musical Legend Portrayed by Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep is set to portray Joni Mitchell in a Cameron Crowe–directed biopic, based on Mitchell’s own reflections and memories, rather than an authorized biography. Streep brings her seasoned depth to the role, and the project, long in development, gains momentum with her involvement .

Jimmy – The Man Behind It’s a Wonderful Life

Jimmy, with KJ Apa as Jimmy Stewart, arrives on November 6, 2026. The film chronicles Stewart’s award-winning career and wartime service, including over 20 combat missions. Stewart’s daughter serves as executive producer, praising Apa’s respectful portrayal .

De Gaulle – France’s Visionary Leader in Two Acts

This French two-part biopic on Charles de Gaulle, directed by Antonin Baudry, premieres June 10 (Tilting Iron) and July 3 (The Sovereign Edge), 2026. It tracks his transformation from soldier to Resistance leader to head of state. Filming wrapped mid‑2024, with a musical score by Volker Bertelmann .

Moulin – The Heroism of Jean Moulin

Moulin dramatizes the life and sacrifice of French Resistance figure Jean Moulin. Directed by László Nemes and starring Gilles Lellouche, it’s set to release in France on October 28, 2026, with Disney+ and HBO Max securing other territories .

I Play Rocky – The Story Behind Rocky

Peter Farrelly’s I Play Rocky explores Sylvester Stallone’s journey while making Rocky. Released in limited theaters on November 13, 2026, followed by a global wide release on November 20, 2026, the film stars Anthony Ippolito alongside a rich supporting cast .

Dark Horse – Bolsonaro’s Political Ascent

Dark Horse follows Jair Bolsonaro’s 2018 presidential campaign and survival after his stabbing. Directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh, with Jim Caviezel starring, the film dramatizes political intrigue and controversy, set for release in 2026 .

Snapshot Table

Why These Biopics Matter

Each of these films brings a unique spotlight to influential figures across music, politics, sport, and film. They invite us into lesser-seen moments—beyond glitz—to the challenges and moral complexities that defined these lives.

“These biopics offer not just stories, but interpretations shaped by who’s telling them.”
— Cultural critic

Some, like Michael and Armstrong, hover in controversy. Others, like De Gaulle and Moulin, offer national historical reflection. And Jimmy and Joni Mitchell spotlight entertainers in deeply personal narratives.

Conclusion

The biopic pipeline for 2026 is rich and varied. Spring opens with Michael, then through summer we meet leaders and legends—from cinema’s golden age to resistance heroes and musicians. Fall brings political drama and the making of Rocky. These films don’t just tell stories—they aim to reshape how we see their subjects.

For fans, critics, and curious minds, 2026 promises to be a banner year of true-life cinema.

FAQs

Q: Which biopic hits theaters first in 2026?
A: Michael opens earliest on April 24, 2026, offering an intimate portrait of Michael Jackson’s life .

Q: Are any of these combining streaming and theatrical releases?
A: Yes. Moulin will debut theatrically in France on October 28, with Disney+ and HBO Max handling broader global distribution .

Q: Which biopic covers a political figure?
A: De Gaulle depicts the French leader in two parts in June and July. Dark Horse dramatizes Jair Bolsonaro’s 2018 campaign later in 2026 .

Q: Are there biopics about music legends among the releases?
A: Absolutely. Michael details Michael Jackson’s rise, and Meryl Streep’s portrayal in the Joni Mitchell biopic brings another music icon to life .

Q: Which biopic explores Hollywood history?
A: I Play Rocky explores the story behind Sylvester Stallone’s creation of Rocky, set for release in November 2026 .

Q: Are these films based on personal narratives or strictly authorized accounts?
A: Not always. Joni Mitchell’s biopic is rooted in her own accounts rather than an official biography. Details like Armstrong’s rights being signed—but not producing—highlight varying levels of subject involvement .

Amy Cruz

Established author with demonstrable expertise and years of professional writing experience. Background includes formal journalism training and collaboration with reputable organizations. Upholds strict editorial standards and fact-based reporting.