The Rise of Pseudo-Biopics: A New Cinematic Trend

Recent years have witnessed a surge in the production of pseudo-biopics—films that blend elements of biography and fiction, creating a unique narrative space. Notable examples include Marty Supreme's *Marty Mauser*, which reimagines table tennis player Marty Reisman, and Bradley Cooper's *Is This Thing On?*, which transforms comedian John Bishop into Alex Novak. Additionally, Cameron Van Hoy's *The Prince* will reflect aspects of Hunter Biden's life through the character Parker Scott. This trend raises questions about the motivations behind such creative choices, including legal risks, audience engagement, and artistic freedom.

The Guardian

The concept of pseudo-biopics aligns with the literary genre known as roman à clef, where real-life events are fictionalized. Filmmaker Brit McAdams highlights that using familiar characters or scenarios can ease the production process, as audiences are more likely to engage with stories that resonate with their existing knowledge. This approach allows filmmakers to explore themes that may not directly correlate with the actual lives of the individuals they portray.

The Guardian

Brit McAdams, the director of *Paint*, emphasizes the challenges of filmmaking and the advantages of leveraging recognizable figures. Co-writer Bertie Brandes of *The Moment*, a mockumentary featuring Charli XCX, discusses the complexities of writing dialogue for real people, noting the importance of authenticity in character portrayal. These creators exemplify the innovative spirit driving the pseudo-biopic trend.

The Guardian

The rise of pseudo-biopics reflects a shift in audience expectations and industry dynamics. With traditional biopics facing box-office challenges, such as *The Smashing Machine* and *Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere*, filmmakers are turning to more experimental narratives that offer both familiarity and creative license. This trend not only caters to a ready-made audience but also allows for deeper explorations of character and theme.

The Guardian

Despite their popularity, pseudo-biopics have faced criticism for blurring the lines between fact and fiction. Critics argue that this approach may lead to misinformation or a diluted understanding of the real individuals being portrayed. The intentional ambiguity in films like *The Moment* raises ethical questions about representation and the responsibilities of filmmakers to their subjects.

The Guardian

McAdams notes that altering names and details can open up creative avenues, allowing filmmakers to tackle themes that might be too sensitive or complex in a straightforward biopic. He states, “Breaking away from the actual person affords you opportunities to explore themes that may not have existed in a specific person’s life.”

The Guardian

• “Playing off of a character or world that people know makes things a bit easier.” — Brit McAdams, Filmmaker

The Guardian

• “I’d be happy if someone watched this and thought it was a genuine documentary,” — Bertie Brandes, Co-writer of *The Moment*

The Guardian

As the trend of pseudo-biopics continues to evolve, upcoming projects like Amelia Dimoldenberg's romantic comedy about a celebrity interviewer suggest that filmmakers will further explore this hybrid genre. The blending of reality and fiction in cinema is likely to expand, inviting both creative experimentation and critical discourse.

The Guardian