Distorting the facts

Is it ever appropriate for a director or author to distort the facts of someone's life in a biographical work?

In my opinion, it is inappropriate to distort the events of the subject’s life in a biographical book, however in a film it is permissible under certain circumstances. Biographical books, for example, are purchased by readers looking for an accurate representation of the events of the subject’s life, not an exaggerated drama. Usually, if a person has enough prestige in life to have a biography written about them, their life is fascinating enough and does not need to be embellished. The specific events detailed in the biography should help contribute to the overall development of the subject’s story, fictionalizing or distorting these aspects takes away from the overall credibility of the author, as well as the author’s work. Books, unlike films, afford the author ample time to detail every aspect of the author’s life, and give the audience a full and complete understanding of their motives, inspirations, and work.

However, films are a condensed version of a biography, where the director has three hours or less to give the audience a complete understanding of the life of the subject. This short amount of time does not allow for a full disclosure of every aspect of the subject’s life, and certain events must be omitted. The director must convey the most important events that shaped the life of the subject, and sometimes this requires exaggeration. Also, films are usually geared towards large audiences, who seek thrills and drama rather than the pure truth. Unfortunately, for any film to really gross well at the box office, it has to pander to this type of viewer. Smaller independent films do a better job of keeping it honest and trying for accuracy rather than drama, but some still are not 100% accurate. However, an educated viewer of these films accepts the fact there are inaccuracies in this medium. People understand that most films are entertainment rather than pure fact, so in film, it is more permissible to distort the truth.

Either way, it is best to seek truth when presenting the life story of any subject, whether through film or text. Embellishment or distortion of the facts takes away from the truth of the subject’s life, and can change the public’s entire perception of that person.