Netflix offers five original films rooted in factual occurrences.

Factual events provide a rich backdrop for compelling narratives. With a vast library at their disposal, viewers can access films rooted in real-life occurrences, extending beyond the conventional documentary format.

These Netflix Original films transport viewers into the midst of pivotal historical moments, conveying powerful stories of human struggle and triumph through outstanding performances, compelling narratives and cinematic excellence. Five critically acclaimed titles stand out as must-watches this week.

Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce deliver outstanding performances in The Two Popes, a movie centered around a pivotal moment in contemporary Catholic Church history.

Based on real-life encounters between Pope Benedict XVI and the future Pope Francis, The Two Popes tells the story of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio's trip to Rome, where he unexpectedly finds himself drawn into a series of profound discussions with Pope Benedict. This internal conflict within the Church is mirrored in Pope Benedict's own doubts about his leadership role and the direction of Catholicism. With impeccable performances from Hopkins and Pryce, their on-screen chemistry keeps viewers engaged despite the film's deliberate pace.

At the prestigious ceremonies, The Two Popes earned nods from the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and British Academy Film Awards.

The standout foreign-language survival thriller from Netflix is undoubtedly Society of the Snow. This gripping Spanish film draws inspiration from a harrowing true event: the 1972 Andes plane crash that left a Uruguayan rugby team marooned in the treacherous, snow-shrouded mountains for an excruciatingly long period. With resources dwindling and morale plummeting, the survivors are compelled to make drastic choices just to stay alive amidst the biting cold.

In the breathtaking Sierra Nevada landscape of Spain, a gripping thriller unfolds with exceptional cinematography. Amidst a catastrophic backdrop, the film masterfully balances the struggle to survive with poignant portrayals of human resilience and vulnerability. The movie's impressive credentials include two prestigious Academy Award nominations: Best International Feature Film and Best Makeup and Hairstyling.

The Netflix series "The Good Nurse" left an indelible mark, lingering in my mind long after its conclusion. Based on a harrowing true story, the crime drama chronicles the twisted tale of Charles Cullen, a nurse turned serial killer who claimed dozens of lives across various US hospitals. The film's narrative is rooted in Charles Graeber's 2013 book of the same name, a gripping exposé that delves into the darker side of human nature.

The film takes an intriguing approach by presenting Cullen's story through the eyes of Amy Loughren, a dedicated ICU nurse and single mother who played a pivotal role in his downfall. As she begins working alongside him, her growing unease stems from peculiar occurrences involving his patients. Meanwhile, The Good Nurse sheds light on another critical aspect of the case: the hospital's culpability, which is skillfully woven into the narrative.

Eddie Redmayne and Jessica Chastain deliver standout performances that anchor the film's narrative. Meanwhile, true crime enthusiasts can delve deeper into the case via the Netflix documentary "Capturing the Killer Nurse".

Mudbound stands out as a Netflix exclusive among this list's war films, notable for its character-driven narrative. Set in rural Mississippi following World War II, the story revolves around two veterans from different racial backgrounds whose lives become deeply connected while working on adjacent farmland. The aftermath of combat weighs heavily on these soldiers and their families, each coping with PTSD in unique ways. Through its engaging storyline, Mudbound sheds light on issues such as racism, trauma, social class disparities and poverty.

Dee Rees' direction led to four Academy Award nominations for the film, with nods for Supporting Actress, Original Song and Adapted Screenplay. Notably, it marked Netflix's inaugural entry into the Best Cinematography category, where Rachel Morrison made history as the first female nominee. The film also garnered two Golden Globe nominations in recognition of its artistic merit.

For those craving a sports thriller with real-life drama, NYAD is an unmissable watch. The movie tells the story of Diana Nyad's courageous attempt to conquer the 110-mile swim from Cuba to Florida without the aid of a shark cage. Years after her initial setback, Nyad refocused on achieving this monumental feat.

In a remarkable display of determination, this athlete sets her sights on an extraordinary goal in her sixties, driven by an unyielding desire to achieve something truly remarkable. With unwavering support from her closest friend and coach, Bonnie Stoll, she embarks on a grueling preparation process, braving treacherous conditions, relentless exhaustion, and multiple setbacks along the way. Meanwhile, two esteemed actresses, Annette Bening and Jodie Foster, garnered nominations for Best Actress and Supporting Actress at the 96th Academy Awards and the 81st Golden Globe Awards respectively.

Looking for documentaries and films based on real-life stories? Browse through Netflix's catalog using their hidden code system to narrow down search results by genre, theme or language. The platform has a slate of upcoming releases this summer, including some intriguing new titles to look forward to.