10 More Movies Based On True Stories (That Were Total Lies)

The Greatest Showman hit theaters in a prime spot for awards season towards the end of 2017 and was nominated for three Golden Globes (later winning one) before it was even released. But despite the uplifting feeling and the critical acclaim, it has been a source of controversy and division.

According to the movie, P.T. Barnum was a kind man whose travelling circus served as a place of refuge for 'freaks' or other societal outcasts. But according to actual historical sources, Barnum was a harsh man with little to no problem using abusive tactics to get animal performers to do his bidding.

And, though he was apparently somewhat opposed to slavery, Barnum seemingly actually cared very little about social issues and happily exploited people's physical abnormalities in his show and frequently conned others.

There is also a very unfair portrayal of the performer Jenny Lind, who in the film leaves the act after the married Barnum shoots down her advances. By all accounts, in reality the two had a professional relationship and Lind left after she grew weary of the tiring schedule of the travelling show. She later spent much of her time pursuing charitable interests.