Is The Upside Based On A True Story

Ever watched a movie that just feels... real? Like, maybe you've met someone kinda like that character, or you've experienced a similar situation? Well, get ready to have your "is this real life?" meter tested, because we're diving into The Upside!

So, is The Upside real?

Okay, let's get right to it. Short answer? Kinda. It's like that time you tried to bake a cake from a recipe but ended up with something... creatively different. It's based on a true story, but Hollywood took some liberties, sprinkled in some movie magic, and maybe added a dash of extra sugar.

The film, starring Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston, is inspired by the French film Les Intouchables.

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Meet the Real Dynamic Duo

Les Intouchables is where things get really interesting. This movie, in turn, is based on the real-life relationship between Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, a wealthy tetraplegic aristocrat, and his caretaker, Abdel Yasmin Sellou, an Algerian immigrant with a criminal record.

Think of it like this: Philippe was living a life of champagne wishes and caviar dreams, but he needed help with, well, everything. Abdel, on the other hand, was just trying to get his signature on a document to keep his benefits coming. Not exactly a match made in heaven, right?

Bryan Cranston in 'The Upside' and Philippe Pozzo di Borgo, who

But, just like in the movies (both of them!), something unexpected happened. They connected. Like, really connected.

From Reality to the Silver Screen

Now, here's where the Hollywood magic comes in. While the core of the story – the unlikely friendship between a wealthy man with a disability and his unconventional caretaker – is absolutely real, the details have been, shall we say, "enhanced" for dramatic effect.

The Upside : Movie Vs True Story | How True Is The Story Of The Upside

In the real story, Abdel wasn't exactly fresh out of prison like Kevin Hart’s character. He had a record, sure, but it wasn't quite the same. Imagine turning up for your interview at a new job in prison stripes!

And Philippe? While he was definitely wealthy and a quadriplegic, some of his backstory and personality traits were tweaked to make him more relatable (or, in some cases, more Hollywood-esque).

Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston in 'The Upside' and their real-life

What's Real and What's... Not So Real?

The real Philippe and Abdel had a bond, a true friendship, that transcended their different backgrounds. That's the heart of the story, and that's what makes it so compelling. The essence of their relationship is absolutely based in reality.

The fancy sports cars, the over-the-top dates, and some of the more dramatic plot points? Those are where the creative liberties come in. Think of it as adding sprinkles and a cherry on top of an already delicious sundae.

Is The Upside Movie Based On A True Story? It's Complicated

Hollywood needed to amp up the drama to keep audiences engaged!

So, is The Upside a completely accurate biopic? Nope. Is it a heartwarming story about an unexpected friendship inspired by real people? Absolutely! Enjoy the movie for what it is – a feel-good story with a touch of truth and a whole lot of heart. And maybe, just maybe, it'll inspire you to reach out to someone you wouldn't normally connect with. Who knows? You might just find your own "upside" in the process!