85 Academy Award Best Documentary Features

This documentary chronicles the life of Amy Winehouse, a supremely gifted singer whose career was tragically cut short. It follows her journey from adolescence, where her vocal talent was evident, through her rise to fame and subsequent struggles with alcohol…

The film chronicles the early days of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. In the late 1950s, the Tanzanian National Park Administration sought to establish a boundary for the protected area surrounding the Ngorongoro Crater. Bernhard and Michael Grzimek were…

Pierre Schoendoerffer's documentary film offers a look at the Vietnam War. It was recognized with the 1968 Academy Award for Best Documentary.

This film explores the life and work of an artist renowned for her impactful monuments, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Civil Rights Memorial.

This Technicolor documentary, inspired by Rachel L. Carson's influential work, explores the wonders of the ocean. The film examines marine life, ranging from large animals like sharks, whales, and octopuses to microscopic organisms, and how they all interact within the…

This is the story of the brilliant and witty group who gathered for lunch every day at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City during the 1920s. The central members of this famous group, known as the Round Table, were…

The backup singers of the music industry exist in the shadows of fame. They provide the harmonies for the biggest names in pop, but their lives have remained hidden. This film reveals the untold stories of these singers and the…

Filmed by Navy photographers, this documentary details the U.S. Navy's 1946-47 Operation High Jump, an expedition to Antarctica led by Admiral Richard E. Byrd. The massive undertaking involved 13 ships and over 4,000 men, departing from Norfolk, Virginia, via the…

Frank Capra's documentary "Prelude to War" was made for the Pentagon and George C. Marshall to encourage American soldiers to fight the Axis Powers during World War II. The film compares democratic and fascist societies, highlighting their differences and the…

"Design for Death" (1947), a documentary feature, explores Japanese culture and its connection to Japan's involvement in World War II.

In the Eastern Nigerian village of Umana, an African tribe collaborates with government officials to construct a maternity hospital. Their efforts face resistance from certain members within the tribe.

This film examines a pivotal moment in American labor history: the 1973 strike by coal miners at the Brookside Mine in Harlan County, Kentucky, owned by Eastover Mining Company. After the miners sought union representation, the company refused to negotiate…

This 1993 Academy Award-winning documentary examines the 1989 US invasion of Panama, arguing it wasn't about protecting American soldiers, restoring democracy, or capturing Manuel Noriega. Instead, the film contends the invasion was a calculated move to compel Panama to align…

This film examines the interrogation methods employed by the United States in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay, with a central focus on the case of an Afghan taxi driver who was tortured and killed in 2002.

In 1974, at 32, Muhammad Ali challenges the reigning heavyweight champion George Foreman in the "Rumble in the Jungle," a highly anticipated fight with a $5 million purse for each boxer. Promoter Don King arranges the match, securing funding from…

This film documents a program where incarcerated individuals share their experiences of prison with at-risk youth. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2007.

When Russia invades Ukraine, a group of Ukrainian journalists finds themselves trapped in the besieged city of Mariupol. They fight to continue their work, documenting the war's horrors.

This documentary explores the life and artistic achievements of Michelangelo Buonarroti, set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy. It traces his journey from early works to his rise to enduring fame, featuring close examinations of his most celebrated masterpieces. The…

The film explores the American prairies of a time when vast herds of bison and elk roamed freely, shaping the expansive grasslands. It highlights the grandeur of these animals and the delicate balance of nature in this untamed land. Viewers…

Narrated by Katharine Cornell and presented in black and white, the film begins by introducing the story of Helen Keller, a deaf and blind advocate for disabled rights, through newsreels, interviews, and historical photographs over the first 24 minutes. Footage…

This docudrama follows the life of Dr. Albert Schweitzer, beginning with his birth in Alsace and continuing until he is 30 years old and chooses to move to French Equatorial Africa to establish a hospital in the jungle. The film…

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Join legendary explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau on a captivating expedition to hidden underwater worlds around the world. This documentary reveals the stunning beauty of marine life in its natural habitats, featuring whales, sharks, and many other creatures. Beautiful cinematography offers an…

This is the story of a palomino mare who, after changing hands multiple times, eventually becomes a champion for a member of the United States equestrian team.

In September 1959, six Europeans embark on a seven-month trek across the uncharted interior of New Guinea, traveling from Cook's Bay to the far side of the island. The 450-mile journey involved encounters with coastal villagers who welcomed them into…

This film explores the ascent and subsequent collapse of Nazi Germany through the framework of classical allegory.

This film, completed shortly before the poet's death at 88, explores his life through footage of his speaking events at Amherst and Sarah Lawrence Colleges, combined with analyses of his poetry and scenes from his life in rural Vermont. The…

The film details the crucial Battle of Midway in June 1942, a major World War II engagement between the U.S. And Japan. This documentary, meticulously researched for historical accuracy, authentically portrays the events of the battle, honoring the bravery and…

This intimate documentary tells the story of Eleanor Roosevelt, a remarkable woman who transformed from a lonely, unhappy child into a globally admired figure. Richard Kaplan's film explores the human side of this American icon, starting with the emotional challenges…

Journey into Self is a 1968 documentary film introduced by Stanley Kramer and produced and directed by Bill McGaw. The film documents a 16-hour group therapy session involving eight people who had never met. Psychologists Carl Rogers and Richard Farson…

This documentary chronicles the life of Arthur Rubinstein, a renowned Polish-American pianist.

This Academy Award-winning documentary follows the intense rivalry between seasoned rodeo champion Larry Mahan and rising star Phil Lyne as they compete for the world championship. Narrated by Joel McHera of the Cowboy Hall of Fame, the film offers an…

"Who Are the DeBolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids?" Is a 1977 documentary film about Dorothy and Bob DeBolt, an American couple who adopted 14 children (12 at the beginning of filming). These include some severely disabled war…

In July 1978, Eric Wilson, a 19-year-old student from Ottawa, Ontario, drove to Colorado for a summer college course. He disappeared in Nebraska four days later. His family fought to convince local and U.S. Authorities that he hadn't run away…

This film documents the Nazi regime's systematic murder of Jewish people, offering a stark warning about the resurgence of anti-Semitism and the potential for such atrocities to repeat. Through newsreels, photographs, and animation, it explores the history of European Jewish…

Director Bryan Fogel delves into the hidden world of sports doping, forming a connection with Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov, a former leading scientist for Russia's anti-doping agency. Through extensive conversations and evidence, Fogel and Rodchenkov develop a close relationship, amidst serious…

"The Cove" recounts the remarkable true story of a dedicated team of filmmakers and freedivers who secretly entered a secluded cove in Japan to expose a disturbing and dangerous truth. Their startling findings revealed a much larger, more troubling reality.

Over 1,000 New York City schoolchildren audition for a modern dance program, giving up free time and other activities, for the opportunity to study with Jacques d'Amboise at the National Dance Institute. His belief that everyone is creative and that…

This documentary chronicles the U.S. Government's forced relocation of 10,000 Navajo people within Arizona.

This film explores the life and career of clarinetist and bandleader Artie Shaw, blending archival footage, location shots, and an interview with Shaw. It illustrates the complex and remarkable legacy of a musician who significantly innovated jazz and swing music…

The 1980s recession created a deep divide in America, separating those with resources from those struggling to survive – including farmers, factory workers, and the homeless living in poor shelters. Facing total loss, determined Americans learn how to work together…

The film follows surviving family and friends who are adding panels to a large memorial quilt project on the eve of the 1987 Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. Focusing on the lives of six individuals…

This is a funny and heartwarming story about the journey to fame within the cutthroat world of opera. Directors Allie Light and Irving Saraf shift the focus from the famous singers to the chorus members – the often-overlooked performers who…

This film reveals the startling reality behind the 2008 economic crisis. The worldwide financial collapse, costing over $20 trillion, led to millions losing their homes and jobs. By thoroughly researching and interviewing key financial figures, politicians, and journalists, Inside Job…

This film offers a raw look at the students of Stanton Elementary, a school in a North Philadelphia neighborhood where nearly all families live in poverty. Through the eyes of Principal Deanna Burney, the movie reveals Stanton's severe lack of…

Directed by Oscar winner William Wyler and narrated by Lieutenant Robert Taylor, USNR (Bataan), this 1944 newsreel-style film documents the U.S. Navy's operations in the Pacific during 1943. Shot in combat zones by Navy photographers, the movie follows the aircraft…

A film by a Palestinian-Israeli collaborative team documents the destruction of Masafer Yatta in the occupied West Bank, carried out by Israeli soldiers. The film follows the growing connection between Basel, a Palestinian activist, and Yuval, an Israeli journalist, as…

In a year of record profits, workers at the Hormel meatpacking plant in Austin, Minnesota, are asked to accept significant pay cuts. The local labor union responds with a strike, fighting for what they consider fair wages. As the strike…

Two South Africans travel to the United States to uncover the story of Rodriguez, a little-known rock musician from the 1970s who achieved a surprising level of fame there. They aim to find out what became of him.

This documentary follows the lives of child prostitutes in Kolkata's Songachi red-light district. Filmmaker Zana Briski initially intended to photograph the prostitutes, but she befriended their children. Briski started teaching the children photography, believing it could offer them a path…

The film tells the inspiring story of Harvey Milk, a human rights advocate who bravely fought for equality and representation. Facing prejudice as an openly gay man in a time of intolerance, Milk became a powerful voice for marginalized communities.…

Five Hungarian Jews recount their life stories, looking back at the remarkable events that shaped them before they became American citizens. This moving film follows their paths from a peaceful life before March 1944 to the brutal reality of Nazi…

This documentary uses footage shot by nearly 1400 cameramen to chronicle the Allied invasion of Europe in World War II. It begins with the planning and preparation of the D-Day invasion at Allied bases in Great Britain, and then covers…

This documentary explores the surprisingly lively world of the desert, challenging the idea that it's a lifeless place. It reveals fascinating natural events like rocks moving in patterns, mud pots erupting with lava-like flows, and unusual flowers thriving in the…

"Kon-Tiki" is a true story about six Scandinavian scientists led by Thor Heyerdahl who set sail on a balsa wood raft in 1947. Their goal was to prove Heyerdahl's theory that Polynesia was settled from Peru, not Asia, a theory…

For years, Craig Foster swam daily in the frigid waters off the coast of Africa. There, he encounters an unusual companion: a young octopus with a keen interest in him. Over months of visiting her home and observing her, Craig…

Each year, thousands of emperor penguins undertake an incredible journey to Antarctica to raise their families. They walk tirelessly, day and night, for 70 miles across the coldest, driest, and darkest continent on Earth. This true story is filled with…

This is the story of Jewish refugees in the aftermath of World War II, from the time of their liberation to the founding of the modern state of Israel.

This docudrama examines the grim consequences of a fictional nuclear attack on Britain. Originally commissioned by the BBC, the film was ultimately deemed too intense for television. Premiering in theaters in 1966, its powerful depiction of destruction received widespread acclaim…

This acclaimed, Academy Award-winning newsreel features some of the most familiar images of Australian soldiers during World War II.

This Soviet documentary recounts the Battle of Moscow (October 1941 – January 1942), where the Red Army successfully defended the city against the German advance. Filmed by many cameramen on the front lines, it presents intense footage of combat and…

This film isn't about gun control. It explores the underlying anxieties of the United States and the 280 million Americans who can legally own a Uzi. Examining Columbine High School security footage, the home of NRA President Charlton Heston, a…

The film depicts the Allied campaign to expel German and Italian forces from North Africa, a landscape described by narrator J. L. Hodson as a desolate place where war was inevitable: "If war was to be fought then let it…

This captivating underwater documentary captures footage filmed by the Cousteau family of sea explorers. The film was primarily shot in deep seas using a specially designed batiscaff and hand-held cameras deployed by frogmen. It was preserved by the Academy Film…

This film tells the story of two cultures connecting through the efforts of a renowned musician and humanitarian. In 1979, with China beginning to open to the world, celebrated violinist Isaac Stern was given a special invitation by the Chinese…

This Academy Award-winning documentary uses newly discovered archival footage and interviews with people who knew her to tell the story of Anne Frank. It offers the first complete look at Anne, a spirited young woman who became one of the…

The Fog of War uses archival footage, recordings of government meetings, and an interview with 85-year-old Robert McNamara to chronicle his life. It follows his journey from a promising young military officer during World War II, to president of Ford…

The summer of Woodstock also saw the Harlem Cultural Festival, where over 300,000 people gathered to celebrate African American music and culture, fostering Black pride and unity. Footage of this remarkable event remained hidden in storage for over 50 years,…

This documentary chronicles the daily life of Philly, the director's middle-aged cousin with intellectual disabilities, over a three-year span.

UNDEFEATED, from Dan Lindsay and T.J. Martin, follows three student-athletes from inner-city Memphis as they navigate a high school football season. The documentary captures their experiences and the efforts of a volunteer coach to support them both on and off…

In June 2013, filmmaker Laura Poitras and journalist Glenn Greenwald traveled to Hong Kong to meet Edward Snowden. Poitras documented their meetings with her camera.

This 2001 French documentary chronicles the murder trial of a 15-year-old Black teen in Jacksonville, Florida. The film won the 2002 Academy Award for Best Documentary.

In the year before World War II, ten thousand children fled Nazi persecution, leaving their families, homes, and childhoods behind to journey to Britain for safety.

"Hearts and Minds," Peter Davis's documentary, examines the Vietnam War era through interviews and powerful visuals. The film uses President Lyndon B. Johnson's famous phrase about winning the "hearts and minds" of the Vietnamese to frame its story, ironically exploring…

A dedicated scientist explores the hidden world of insects, revealing their potential to become dominant over humanity. The film uses compelling visuals and storytelling to showcase the raw power and efficiency of these creatures. It offers an educational look at…

In a post-industrial Ohio town, a Chinese billionaire establishes a factory in a former General Motors plant, employing two thousand American workers. Initial optimism fades as the advanced technology of China encounters the realities of the American workforce.

This film tells the story of a man who survived a poisoning attempt using a deadly nerve agent in August 2020. While recovering for months, he uncovers startling truths about the attack and ultimately chooses to return to his home.

This film blends documentary and exposé to chronicle Marjoe Gortner's experiences as a child evangelist performing in traveling church revivals, offering commentary on the spectacle of evangelism and the commercial aspects of religion before the rise of televised preaching. Preserved…

This Oscar-winning documentary recounts the story of Japanese adventurer Yuichiro Miura's 1970 attempt to ski down Mount Everest, the world's highest peak.

In 1974, French high-wire artist Philippe Petit performed an illegal walk between the New York World Trade Center towers, then the tallest buildings in the world. He spent nearly an hour on a wire strung 1,350 feet above the city…

Marcel Ophuls' documentary examines the disturbing life of Klaus Barbie, the notorious Gestapo chief known as "The Butcher of Lyon." He oversaw the deaths of over 4,000 people in occupied France during World War II. Barbie escaped justice, fleeing to…

This film follows Alex Honnold's attempt to be the first person to free solo El Capitan, the 3,000-foot granite wall in Yosemite National Park. Without ropes or safety equipment, this climb is considered the most significant achievement in rock climbing.

This film offers a detailed look at the legendary Woodstock Music & Art Festival in Bethel, New York, in August 1969. With rare access to those involved and extensive concert footage, it shows the excitement and difficulties experienced by the…

This documentary chronicles Al Gore's efforts to bring global warming to international attention. It details his campaign to establish the issue as a globally recognized problem.

This documentary recounts the tragic 1972 Munich Olympics Massacre, using archival footage and interviews. It details the abduction of Israeli athletes by Palestinian terrorists, highlighting the insufficient police response and the denial of Israeli aid. The film also examines Israel's…