Is True Story Based on a True Story? Real Events, Facts & People (2025)

True Story (2015) is a psychological thriller helmed by Rupert Gold, who delves into a riveting narrative that surrounds mystery and moral ambiguity. The movie takes you on a ride through the complex web of relationships, blurred truths, and intricate dynamics of people. So, the question arises about all the possible real events and facts behind this narrative and whether it is based on a true story at all.

Is True Story based on a true story?

Yes, True Story is based on a real incident, and it draws inspiration from the events that have been documented in Michael Finkel’s memoir, titled,’ True Story: Murder, Memoir, Mea Culpa.’ The story revolves around Finkel, who is accused of fabricating a piece in the New York Times, and Christian Longo, an accused murderer who adopts the former’s identity while being on the run.

A relationship develops between the two, where Finkel wants redemption from the accusations while Christian is simply drawn to the journalist’s world. As the story unfolds, their interactions become consumed by deception, manipulation, and hunger to unveil the truth. Even though True Story is a film that’s rooted in factual events, there are some elements that have been added for cinematic effect.

True Story’s real events and facts explained

The actual Michael Finkel indeed went through a scandal in his career, which led to his dismissal from the New York Times. On the other hand, Christian Longo, the one accused of murder, adopted Finkel’s identity and ran from the law. He was eventually arrested in Mexico in 2002 and was put on trial for the murder of his wife and three children. He used Finkel’s identity as a fugitive, which set the stage for the real one to come and interact with him.

The real people behind True Story’s characters

While Michael Finkel and Christian Longo are real-life people, in the film, composite characters are introduced to showcase the challenges that Finkel had to encounter in his personal and professional life. Most of these unsettling yet intriguing events were documented by Finkel and became a part of his memoir.

Is Michael Finkel a real person?

As we’ve established, Michael Finkel is a real person, and the film itself has been inspired by his memoir. After his scandal, he was entangled with Christian’s story. After these incidents, Finkel has continued being a journalist and author and has contributed to multiple publications, writing on an array of topics.

Is Christian Longo a real person?

Christian Longo is also a real individual who faced allegations of committing heinous crimes against his own family. He reportedly murdered his family in Oregon and fled from the scene. After his arrest, it was discovered that he used Finkel’s name all along, and eventually, he faced charges for the murders.

Is Jill Baker a real person?

It is important to note that Jill Baker is not a real person, and her character serves as a lens through which the audience views the challenges faced by Finkel. She adds depth to the story, and even though she’s fictional, her presence brings the narrative to life.