Shot Caller is not based on a true story. It is a work of fiction created by director Ric Roman Waugh. However, Waugh did draw inspiration from real-life experiences and situations, which gives the film a sense of authenticity.
In Shot Caller, the story revolves around a successful businessman named Jacob Harlon, played by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, who is sent to prison after causing a car accident while under the influence of alcohol. In order to survive in the brutal and dangerous prison environment, Jacob must adapt and become part of a prison gang. As he delves deeper into the criminal world, he undergoes a transformation, both physically and mentally.
While the specific events and characters in the movie are fictional, the portrayal of prison life and the challenges faced by inmates have been influenced by real-life accounts and research. The director, Ric Roman Waugh, has a background in law enforcement and has spent time working in prisons, which likely contributed to the authenticity of the film.
It’s important to remember that Shot Caller is still a piece of fiction and should not be taken as a documentary representation of prison life. However, the film does strive to depict the harsh realities and complexities of the prison system, shedding light on the choices and consequences faced by those behind bars.
Shot Caller is a gripping and intense movie that offers a thought-provoking exploration of the prison experience. While it is not directly based on a true story, its grounded approach draws from real-life situations to create a compelling narrative.