Saudi Netflix drama From the Ashes is inspired by shocking real-life events, covering a dreadful and tragic fire at an all-girls school. Revelations come to the surface after the event, and it has terrible ramifications, leading to secrets and betrayals rocking the facility to its core. If you were a fan, here are five recommendations for other movies like From the Ashes based on real events and other terrible true-life tragedies.
5 Movies Like From the Ashes
Fruitvale Station (2013)
This controversial and heart-breaking movie covers the shocking story of Oscar Grant III, a 22-year-old Black man who was shot and killed by police officer Johannes Mehserle on the morning of New Year’s Day, 2009. A poignant and soul-destroying tale that explores the darkest aspects of American society, the film would go on to win the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival.
The Impossible (2012)
The terrible 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and resulting tsunami, also known as The Boxing Day Tsunami, is the backdrop for this tale of survival. One of the deadliest natural disasters ever recorded, this film follows the battle for survival endured by María Belón, her husband, and three children, who despite the odds managed to survive the horrific and tragic event. Naomi Watts was nominated for an Academy Award for her portrayal in the film.
Into the Wild (2007)
A tragic tale of one man’s desire to live off-grid and to escape the pressures of modern life. Christopher McCandless was only twenty-four when he made his way to Alaska, giving up everything he owned to try and survive on his own, but lack of preparation or proper supplies meant he would struggle to survive, with tragic consequences.
Directed by Sean Penn, this tragic real-life story is difficult to watch despite being beautifully filmed. Haunting and melancholic, and with a great soundtrack, check this out.
Monster (2003)
A harrowing and shocking story, Monster follows the story of ex-prostitute Aileen Wuornos, who was placed on death row for the murders of seven men between 1989 and 1990. Aileen would explain that the murders were done in self-defence, but a jury would find her guilty of the crimes, and she was given the death penalty in 2002. The Patty Jenkins-directed film would earn Charlize Theron an Oscar.
Elephant (2003)
Gus Van Sant was in the director’s chair for this film inspired by the terrible events of the Columbine Massacre in 1999. A school shooting that rocked the world is seen through the eyes of the two students at the heart of the tragedy. Difficult to watch, and filmed with many long, uncut scenes, the movie presents the terrible and ongoing problem of school shootings in the US.
With strange and hypnotic pacing, the build-up of tension and apprehension is almost unbearable. The film would be the winner of the Golden Palm at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival.
Do you have any other recommendations for movies like From the Ashes? Let us know!
