Gorillas in the Mist (1988)

Based On the Life of: Diane Fossey

Starring: Sigourney Weaver

Movie Budget: $12 million

Star Salary: $105,000

Famed anthropologist Diane Fossey wrote Gorillas in the Mist about the life of legendary primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, upon whom the film is based. Fossey was one of the world’s foremost primatologists and studied great apes alongside Jane Goodall, portrayed in the film by Sigourney Weaver. Fossey was also a strong advocate against poaching of the beautiful and intelligent creatures.

With a big name like Weaver attached, it’s no surprise the movie was a huge success, despite the fact that science-based biopics tend to not be blockbuster hits. The movie made $61.1 million, worldwide, at the box office.