J. Edgar (2011)

Based On the Life of: J. Edgar Hoover

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio

Movie Budget: $35 million  

Star Salary: $10 million

Edgar stars Leonardo DiCaprio as J. Edgar Hoover, the former FBI director who was one of the most powerful men in America for nearly fifty years. Hoover lasted through eight presidents and three wars, becoming the ruthless face of the FBI. The movie was nominated for a Golden Globe.

Directed by Clint Eastwood, many have criticized the portrayal of J. Edgar Hoover as being more fawning than accurate. Still, J. Edgar takes a look at the man behind the mask—Hoover was notoriously private both in public and in his personal life. Armie Hammer and Naomi Watts also starred in the movie.