Into The Wild (2007)

Based On the Life of: Chris McCandless

Starring: Emile Hirsch

Movie Budget: $15 million

Star Salary: $1 million

Emile Hirsch stars as Christopher McCandless, the son of wealthy parents who appeared to have it all. Directed by filmmaker, actor, and activist, Sean Penn, one publication described it as his “most ambitious movie.” McCandless graduated at the top of his class at Emory University, but he chose to become a wanderer instead.

He gave up his savings to charity, got rid of all his possessions, and took off into the Alaskan wilderness to find himself. The film is based on his true story and was nominated for an Oscar. It won a Gotham Independent Award for Best Feature.