Films Inspired by Magazine Articles
Many of the most iconic films in Hollywood history have been inspired by stories found in magazines. From crime dramas to romantic comedies, these movies often draw from real-life events or compelling narratives that first appeared in print. The following examples highlight how magazine articles have shaped some of the most memorable films.
The Bling Ring (2013)
Based on a 2010 Vanity Fair article titled “The Suspects Wore Louboutins” by journalist Nancy Jo Sales, The Bling Ring tells the story of a real-life gang of juveniles who robbed the homes of celebrities like Lindsay Lohan, Orlando Bloom, and Paris Hilton. Directed by Sofia Coppola, the film stars Emma Watson, Taissa Farmiga, and Israel Broussard. It was developed shortly after the article’s publication and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the group’s actions. Watson’s performance was particularly praised for its comedic timing and departure from her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series.
Hustlers (2019)
This crime comedy starring Jennifer Lopez is based on a 2015 New York magazine article titled “The Hustlers at Scores.” The film follows a group of exotic dancers who defraud their wealthy clients. Directed by Lorene Scafaria, it also features Keke Palmer, Lili Reinhart, and Lizzo. The movie was a commercial and critical success, with much praise given to Lopez’s performance as the ring leader Romano. The original article’s author, Jessica Pressler, later wrote about Anna Sorkin, which was adapted into the Netflix series Inventing Anna.
War Dogs (2016)
Directed by Todd Phillips, War Dogs is a black comedy based on a 2011 Rolling Stone article by Guy Lawson. The film follows two American arms dealers, Efraim Diveroli and David Packouz, who were awarded military contracts through their company AEY Inc. Starring Jonah Hill and Miles Teller, the film dramatized the events surrounding the pair. However, the real Diveroli sued Warner Brothers and the production team, claiming the film was based on his memoir, which he co-wrote with Matthew Cox.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)
Based on Hunter S. Thompson’s roman à clef of the same name, which originally appeared as a serial in Rolling Stone, this film stars Johnny Depp as a semi-fictionalized version of Thompson. Benicio Del Toro plays Dr. Gonzo, based on Thompson’s friend Oscar Zeta Acosta. Directed by Terry Gilliam, the film followed Duke and Gonzo’s journey to Las Vegas, where their journalistic intentions were sidetracked by their use of illicit substances. Despite mixed reviews, the film remains a cult classic.
Almost Famous (2000)
Written and directed by Cameron Crowe, Almost Famous follows a young journalist as he tours with a fictitious rock band while writing a cover story for Rolling Stone. Set in the early 1970s, the film is semi-autobiographical, based on Crowe’s own experiences as a teenage journalist for Rolling Stone. Although it struggled commercially, the film received widespread critical acclaim, winning an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album. It was later adapted into a Broadway musical.
The Fast and the Furious (2001)
This 2001 action film was based on an article titled “Racer X” that appeared in the May 1998 edition of Vibe magazine. Written by Ken Li, the article chronicled the underground street racing community in New York City. Starring Paul Walker, Vin Diesel, and others, the film launched the massive Fast & Furious franchise. Paul Walker, who played Brian O’Connor, starred in seven of the ten films before his tragic death in 2013. His brother was used as a stand-in for the final film in the series.
Argo (2012)
Directed by and starring Ben Affleck, Argo is a historical thriller about the rescue of six American diplomats during the Iranian Revolution. Based on Tony Mendez’s 1999 memoir and a 2007 Wired article by Joshuah Bearman, the film received critical acclaim and won the Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. It grossed over $230 million worldwide.
Coyote Ugly (2000)
Based on a 1997 GQ article by Elizabeth Gilbert, Coyote Ugly follows Violet Sanford, an aspiring musician who takes a job at a bar in New York City. Starring Piper Perabo and Tyra Banks, the film was a commercial success but criticized for its depictions. It helped launch the real Coyote Ugly Saloon, leading to multiple locations across the country. Tyra Banks has been working on a sequel, but development reportedly stalled in 2023.
