Best Documentary Films

Looking for the best documentary films? Discover captivating stories and thought-provoking narratives that will leave you inspired. Explore a diverse range of topics, from history and nature to social issues and personal journeys. Immerse yourself in the world of documentaries and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you.

If you’re a fan of thought-provoking and insightful storytelling, then the world of best documentary films is where you should immerse yourself. These films offer a unique blend of real-life stories, compelling narratives, and in-depth exploration of various subjects. From award-winning documentaries that shed light on pressing social issues to critically acclaimed films that delve into the lives of extraordinary individuals, there is something for everyone in this genre. Whether you’re interested in environmental documentaries that highlight the urgency of conservation or historical documentaries that provide a deeper understanding of past events, these films captivate audiences with their authenticity and powerful storytelling. So, if you’re looking to expand your horizons and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around us, dive into the captivating world of best documentary films.

The Act of Killing

• Director: Joshua Oppenheimer
• Genre: Documentary, Crime, History
• Release Year: 2012
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
• Awards: BAFTA Award for Best Documentary, European Film Award for Best Documentary, and more.

The Act of Killing is a groundbreaking documentary that explores the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-1966. Directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, the film follows former Indonesian death squad leaders as they reenact their real-life mass killings in various cinematic genres. This unique approach provides a chilling insight into the minds of the perpetrators and the lasting impact of their actions.

This thought-provoking documentary sheds light on a dark chapter in history and raises important questions about power, morality, and the nature of evil. It has received critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling and has won numerous awards for its powerful portrayal of the human capacity for violence and denial.The Act of Killing offers a haunting exploration of the psychological toll of violence and the blurred lines between reality and fiction.

Man on Wire

• Director: James Marsh
• Genre: Documentary, Biography, Crime
• Release Year: 2008
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, BAFTA Award for Best British Film, and more.

Man on Wire is an awe-inspiring documentary that tells the story of Philippe Petit, a French high-wire artist who famously walked between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in 1974. Directed by James Marsh, the film combines archival footage, reenactments, and interviews to recreate Petit’s daring and illegal act.

This gripping documentary captures the audacity and artistry of Petit’s feat, as well as the meticulous planning and execution involved. It explores themes of ambition, passion, and the human desire to push boundaries. Man on Wire is a testament to the power of dreams and the extraordinary lengths some individuals will go to make them a reality.Man on Wire offers a visually stunning and emotionally captivating account of one man’s extraordinary act of defiance and triumph.

Searching for Sugar Man

• Director: Malik Bendjelloul
• Genre: Documentary, Biography, Music
• Release Year: 2012
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, BAFTA Award for Best Documentary, and more.

Searching for Sugar Man is a captivating documentary that follows two South African fans on their quest to uncover the mysterious life of American musician Rodriguez. Directed by Malik Bendjelloul, the film explores how Rodriguez’s music became an underground sensation in South Africa during apartheid, despite his obscurity in his own country.

This heartwarming documentary delves into themes of fame, redemption, and the power of music to transcend borders. It showcases the impact of Rodriguez’s music on a generation and highlights the transformative power of art. Searching for Sugar Man is a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and the unexpected twists of fate that can shape a person’s life.Searching for Sugar Man is a remarkable story of hidden talent, cultural impact, and the enduring power of music.

Blackfish

• Director: Gabriela Cowperthwaite
• Genre: Documentary, Biography, Drama
• Release Year: 2013
• IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
• Awards: BAFTA Award for Best Documentary, Critics’ Choice Documentary Award for Best Documentary Feature, and more.

Blackfish is a powerful documentary that exposes the dark side of the captive orca industry. Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the film focuses on Tilikum, a performing killer whale involved in the deaths of several trainers at SeaWorld. Through interviews with former trainers and experts, the documentary raises important ethical questions about keeping these highly intelligent creatures in captivity.

This eye-opening documentary challenges the entertainment industry’s treatment of marine animals and highlights the physical and psychological impact captivity can have on these majestic creatures. Blackfish sparked widespread public debate and led to significant changes in public perception and legislation regarding orca captivity.Blackfish is a compelling and emotionally charged exploration of the consequences of keeping wild animals in captivity for human entertainment.

Citizenfour

• Director: Laura Poitras
• Genre: Documentary, Biography, Crime
• Release Year: 2014
• IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, BAFTA Award for Best Documentary, and more.

Citizenfour is a gripping documentary that provides an inside look into the revelations made by Edward Snowden, a former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor who leaked classified documents exposing global surveillance programs. Directed by Laura Poitras, the film follows Snowden as he meets with journalists in a Hong Kong hotel room to share his findings.

This thought-provoking documentary raises important questions about privacy, government surveillance, and the balance between national security and individual rights. Citizenfour offers a unique perspective on one of the most significant whistleblowing events in recent history and sheds light on the far-reaching implications of mass surveillance.Citizenfour is a chilling and timely exploration of the complex issues surrounding privacy and government surveillance in the digital age.

Amy

• Director: Asif Kapadia
• Genre: Documentary, Biography, Music
• Release Year: 2015
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Grammy Award for Best Music Film, and more.

Amy is a poignant documentary that chronicles the life and tragic death of British singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse. Directed by Asif Kapadia, the film offers an intimate portrait of Winehouse’s rise to fame, struggles with addiction, and the pressures of celebrity culture.

This emotionally charged documentary combines archival footage, interviews, and Winehouse’s own music to tell her story in her own words. It explores themes of talent, fame, mental health, and the destructive nature of the music industry. Amy is a heartbreaking tribute to a talented artist whose life was cut tragically short.Amy offers an intimate and raw portrayal of a gifted musician and the dark side of fame.

Exit Through the Gift Shop

• Director: Banksy
• Genre: Documentary, Comedy, Crime
• Release Year: 2010
• IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Independent Spirit Award for Best Documentary Feature, and more.

Exit Through the Gift Shop is a fascinating documentary that explores the world of street art and its commercialization. Directed by the elusive street artist Banksy, the film follows Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant in Los Angeles who becomes obsessed with documenting street artists and eventually transforms into an artist himself.

This thought-provoking documentary blurs the line between reality and fiction as it questions the nature of art, authenticity, and the influence of hype in the art world. Exit Through the Gift Shop offers a unique perspective on street art and challenges conventional notions of what constitutes “legitimate” art.Exit Through the Gift Shop is a clever and satirical exploration of the art world and its obsession with hype and commercial success.

Hoop Dreams

• Director: Steve James
• Genre: Documentary, Sport
• Release Year: 1994
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
• Awards: Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize for Documentary, Academy Award nomination for Best Film Editing, and more.

Hoop Dreams is an inspiring documentary that follows the lives of two young African American basketball players, William Gates and Arthur Agee, as they navigate the challenges of pursuing their dreams of becoming professional basketball players. Directed by Steve James, the film spans over five years, capturing the triumphs and setbacks of the boys’ journeys.

This compelling documentary explores themes of race, class, and the pursuit of success in America. It offers a powerful portrayal of the realities faced by aspiring athletes and sheds light on the systemic barriers that can hinder their progress. Hoop Dreams is a testament to the resilience and determination of its subjects.Hoop Dreams is a moving and insightful exploration of the pursuit of dreams and the challenges faced by young athletes in marginalized communities.

The Cove

• Director: Louie Psihoyos
• Genre: Documentary, Crime
• Release Year: 2009
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Sundance Film Festival Audience Award for U.S. Documentary, and more.

The Cove is a gripping documentary that exposes the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Taiji, Japan. Directed by Louie Psihoyos, the film follows a team of activists, including former dolphin trainer Ric O’Barry, as they infiltrate a hidden cove to document and raise awareness about this controversial industry.

This eye-opening documentary sheds light on the environmental impact and ethical implications of dolphin hunting. It raises important questions about animal rights, conservation, and the intersection of culture and commerce. The Cove is a powerful call to action for the protection of marine life and the preservation of our oceans.The Cove is a harrowing and impactful exploration of the dark side of the dolphin hunting industry and its impact on both animals and humans.

20 Feet from Stardom

• Director: Morgan Neville
• Genre: Documentary, Music
• Release Year: 2013
• IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, Grammy Award for Best Music Film, and more.

20 Feet from Stardom is an uplifting documentary that shines a spotlight on the talented backup singers who have contributed to some of the greatest songs in popular music history. Directed by Morgan Neville, the film celebrates these unsung heroes and explores their personal journeys, struggles, and triumphs.

This inspiring documentary showcases the incredible vocal talents of these often overlooked artists and delves into the dynamics of fame, success, and the music industry. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the music industry and pays tribute to the vital role these backup singers play in creating memorable performances.20 Feet from Stardom is a soulful and empowering tribute to the unsung heroes behind some of music’s biggest hits.