Yes, Vaaranam Aayiram is based on a real story. It's about a father - son relationship. The story showcases different phases of their lives, with the son looking up to his father and being influenced by him throughout his growth.
Yes, '1408' is based on a true story. The story was inspired by a Stephen King short story of the same name. It's about a man who stays in a supposedly haunted hotel room, Room 1408, and experiences terrifying and inexplicable events.
Well, it's a bit of a mix. While it may be inspired by some true elements from 1899 such as the general state of the world, sea travel, and social hierarchies at that time, it also has a lot of fictional elements added for the sake of drama and mystery. For example, the overarching mystery plot might be a creative take on some historical uncertainties, but not directly based on a single true story.