90 Essential Genre Documentaries

In Michoacán, Mexico, Dr. Jose Mireles, a respected local doctor known as "El Doctor," leads a popular movement against the Knights Templar, a brutal drug cartel that has plagued the area for years. Simultaneously, in Arizona's Altar Valley – a…

This work explores a controversial theory connecting pivotal historical events. It posits a hidden network of orchestrators behind major turning points, ranging from the rise of Hitler and the JFK assassination to the events of 9/11 and contemporary terrorism. Examining…

Oscar-nominated documentary. Guitar legend Ry Cooder brings together a group of elderly Cuban folk musicians, some in their nineties, to record a Grammy-winning album in Havana. More than just music, the film is a celebration of life, legacy, and art's…

This acclaimed and exciting story follows a group of overlooked teenagers who transformed skateboarding and influenced the culture of today's extreme sports. Using vintage skateboarding footage, exclusive interviews, and a powerful rock score, DOGTOWN AND Z-BOYS chronicles the emergence of…

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…

This documentary uses over 500 hours of previously unseen footage to explore the personal life and career of Diego Maradona during his time with SSC Napoli and the Argentinian national team in the 1980s.

This documentary chronicles NBA superstar LeBron James and four of his gifted teammates as they navigate the challenges of high school basketball in Ohio, charting James' path toward achieving national recognition.

This documentary follows Dirk Nowitzki, the Dallas Mavericks player, and tells the story of his life, from growing up in Germany to achieving fame in the NBA.

GOING CLEAR closely examines the experiences of eight former members of the Church of Scientology, revealing the methods used to draw people in and the actions taken in the name of their faith.

"The Most Dangerous Man in America" tells the story of a former Pentagon employee who, driven by his conscience and possessing a collection of classified documents, takes it upon himself to confront a powerful presidency. He aims to end the…

This film presents an argument for a fundamental shift away from the current global economic system. It focuses on the essential, practical needs for human and societal survival, looking beyond cultural differences and established beliefs. The film explores how these…

The film uses home movies, photographs, and poetry readings to explore the life of Tupac Shakur, a highly admired, influential, and often turbulent figure in hip-hop music.

Blackfish examines the troubling effects of keeping highly intelligent and emotional animals like killer whales in captivity. The documentary focuses on Tilikum, a notorious orca who has been involved in the deaths of three people, including a trainer. It reveals…

Banksy is a world-famous graffiti artist whose art appears on walls worldwide, from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina to the West Bank. He fiercely protects his anonymity to avoid legal trouble and has never been filmed. *Exit Through the Gift…

Journalist Jeremy Scahill begins investigating the secret expansion of American covert wars. His reporting reveals the US government's response to international terrorism appears to disregard established laws.

This disturbing documentary features former Indonesian death squad leaders performing dramatizations of their past mass killings, using different film styles. The reenactments create a confusing mix of reality and fiction, revealing the lasting effects of Indonesia's 1965-66 anti-communist violence and…

Aaron Swartz was a brilliant programmer and advocate for social change. He made significant contributions to online activism and open access to information. However, his efforts led to a complex legal battle, tragically culminating in his death at the age…

This is an espionage story about the CIA's decade-long fight against Al Qaeda, told through the experiences of the often-unseen people who waged the secret war against Osama bin Laden, long before he became a household name.

This documentary explores the world of boxing through the perspectives of three legendary champions: Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Bernard Hopkins.

This documentary recounts the events of September 11, 2001, from the perspective of two French filmmakers who were on location to film a movie about a new firefighter in New York City. Their film unexpectedly captured the unfolding tragedy that…

Documentary filmmaker Amy Berg examines the life of Father Oliver O'Grady, a 30-year-old pedophile. The film reveals the corruption within the Catholic Church that enabled his abuse of numerous children. Through victims' accounts and a revealing interview with O'Grady himself,…

We don't know when or how we will die. Death Row inmates do. Werner Herzog engages in conversations with people serving life sentences, exploring their perspectives on life, death, and the events that led them to prison. He delves into…

"Notorious" provides an intimate look at Conor McGregor's remarkable journey to becoming a global icon in Mixed Martial Arts. Over four years, the documentary follows the young fighter as he overcomes obstacles and achieves success, rising from a welfare recipient…

Johnny Tapia, a boxer from Albuquerque, lived a life marked by intense struggles. His success in the ring, including winning world titles in three different weight divisions, was constantly overshadowed by personal hardships: the kidnapping and murder of his mother…

A close-knit community is shattered by the horrific murder of three children, leading to a desperate search for the killers. The investigation zeroes in on three young men known for their unconventional ways. Though no direct evidence connects them to…

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…

Out of Thin Air is a gripping crime drama set in the remote Icelandic landscape. The film investigates a real 1970s cold case: two men who vanished without explanation. Detectives struggle to piece together clues and navigate the complicated relationships…

This film revisits the 1994 murders of three eight-year-old boys in Arkansas and the subsequent trial of three teenagers convicted of the crime. A follow-up to *Paradise Lost*, *Revelations* includes new interviews with the convicted men, as well as with…

Claude Lanzmann’s powerful documentary explores the Holocaust through firsthand accounts. The film features over a decade of interviews with survivors, bystanders, and perpetrators, categorized into three groups. These personal stories offer intimate insights into life at the Chelmno and Auschwitz…

Twenty-five years after the acquittal of officers involved in the Rodney King beating ignited widespread protests, violence, and looting in Los Angeles, *LA 92* uses powerful, previously unseen archival footage to transport audiences back to that turbulent time.

For the last four decades, the War on Drugs has led to 45 million arrests, turning the United States into the world's leading jailer and devastating communities both domestically and internationally. Despite this, drugs are now cheaper, purer, and more…

Spike Lee's 2002 documentary, *Jim Brown: All-American*, explores the life of NFL legend Jim Brown. The film examines his past, present, and future, highlighting his career as an athlete, his work in acting, and his activism. Interviews with figures from…

Before the Premier League and huge salaries, football in England was deeply troubled. The game was seen as disgraceful, with fans, hooliganism, and the country feeling disillusioned. Italia '90 – the World Cup – offered a chance for change. But…

In 1994, a 13-year-old boy vanished from his home in San Antonio, Texas. Three and a half years later, he's discovered alive in a Spanish village, recounting a harrowing tale of kidnapping and torture. His family rejoices at his return.…

*The Square* examines the daily struggles of Egyptians striving to establish a new democracy. The film centers on Cairo's Tahrir Square, following several young activists who believe the fight for democracy truly began after Hosni Mubarak's ouster. Driven by their…

This documentary explores the violent death of a filmmaker's brother and the justice system's failure to convict his killer. It examines how fear and racial biases contribute to violence, and how tragedy can reshape lives. Ultimately, it urges viewers to…

This authorized documentary follows Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man. It features exclusive archival footage of his early life in Jamaica, alongside new footage from his fourth and final Olympic Games in Rio. There, he competes for gold in the…

This is a story about hope overcoming incredible challenges, and a lesson in what true success really means.

Meru tells the gripping story of three top American climbers – Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin, and Renan Ozturk – determined to conquer a seemingly insurmountable peak.

Werner Herzog journeys back to the Amazon with Juliane Koepcke, the sole survivor of a 1971 plane crash. The film follows their search for the plane wreckage and their attempt to reconstruct her harrowing escape from the jungle.

This three-hour documentary chronicles 25 years of Nicolae Ceaușescu's life, utilizing 1,000 hours of original footage sourced from the Romanian National Archives.

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…

This documentary explores how news reporting about war has changed over time, from the early 1900s to today. It examines how new technologies and changing social views have shaped war coverage and how the media influences public opinion about armed…

In 1975, the film follows bodybuilders as they undergo rigorous training to compete for the top titles of Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe. It centers on Arnold Schwarzenegger, a five-time champion, who fights to retain his title against strong rivals…

This film uses dramatic game footage and exclusive interviews to chronicle Larry Bird's rise from a small-town background to becoming a sports icon. Bird transformed basketball, achieving three NBA championships and three MVP awards. The film explores the person behind…

"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.

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 is the only authorized film to offer a comprehensive look at Kurt Cobain. Award-nominated director Brett Morgen uses Cobain's personal materials – including art, music, previously unseen films, animation, and interviews with his family and friends – to create…

"At the Limit" is a documentary following brothers Thomas and Alexander Huber as they engage in extreme climbing. Director Pepe Danquart captures their ascents in Patagonia and on Yosemite's granite giant, El Capitan. A central focus of the film is…

Over five years and filmed in twenty-five countries across five continents, *Samsara* is shot on 70mm film. It takes viewers to diverse locations: sacred sites, disaster areas, industrial facilities, and natural landscapes.

This horror documentary explores the roots of our most frightening urban legends, examining the real-life events that may have sparked these stories.

Twenty-three years into a death sentence, a man convicted of murder requests execution. However, as his past is revealed, the truth about the case proves far more complicated than anyone imagined.

Mike Tyson's one-man show offers a compelling exploration of his life and career. *MIKE TYSON: UNDISPUTED TRUTH* provides an intimate glimpse into the life and thoughts of one of boxing's most formidable champions. Directed by Academy Award® nominee Spike Lee,…

Zeitgeist: Addendum premiered at the 5th Annual Artivist Film Festival. Director Peter Joseph states that the world's ongoing problems with war, poverty, and corruption stem from a fundamental misunderstanding of human behavior. The film explores the root cause of societal…

This documentary reveals the untold story of a desperate struggle for truth. Made by those who experienced it firsthand, the film offers unprecedented access to the defense's inner workings, showing the investigation, research, and appeals process in detail. It unveils…

"Senna" is a documentary that follows the life of Brazilian racing driver Ayrton Senna, examining his physical and personal journey as he pursued perfection in Formula 1. The film covers his career from his debut in 1984 to his tragic…

This compelling documentary details the highly publicized trial, conviction, and later acquittal of Amanda Knox, a Seattle native, for the 2007 murder of a British student who was studying abroad in Italy.

"The Bridge" is a challenging documentary film featuring footage of individuals choosing to end their lives by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge, a location with a high rate of suicides. The film includes interviews with family members and friends…

This documentary captures a single day from Kobe Bryant's experience during the 2008 NBA playoffs. It offers an intimate look at his preparation and mindset as he navigates the intensity of a crucial game.

Directors Hetherington and Junger spent a year with the 2nd Battalion of the U.S. Army in a dangerous valley in Afghanistan. The documentary offers insight into the unit's approach to overcoming the Taliban, focusing on their dedication, intense combat, and…

This documentary blends archival footage, interviews, and dramatized scenes to explore the lives of those connected to Jeffrey Dahmer in the summer of his 1991 arrest.

The 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City was the deadliest domestic terrorist attack in U.S. History. This film examines the events that led to the bombing, focusing on a series of violent confrontations between…

This documentary blends powerful historical footage with recent interviews, centering on dedicated Red Sox fans who longed to see the end of the "Curse of the Bambino." It includes new footage from the painful 2003 Pennant loss, the exciting 2004…

This documentary explores the lives of young people incarcerated for life without the possibility of parole, alongside the stories of the families of those they harmed.

This film examines the intense competition between basketball icons Larry Bird and Magic Johnson throughout the 1980s, a period when they both led their teams to championship success.

Danny Trejo is known for his tough-guy roles and distinctive tattoos. But beneath the screen persona lies a difficult past marked by drug addiction, armed robbery, and a long prison sentence. *Champion* offers a personal look at Danny Trejo's life,…

This feature-length documentary explores the life of Paul Gascoigne, a legendary footballer. It examines his inner world, including his struggles, insecurities, and moments of success.

This acclaimed documentary uses humor to explore the enduring heartbreak of the Boston Red Sox's "Curse of the Bambino." It blends historical footage with interviews of devoted fans, focusing not on the players themselves, but on the lifelong lament of…

The film follows the intertwined stories of Abu Jandal and Salim Ahmed Hamdan. Their chance meeting in 1996 sets in motion a series of events that ultimately lead them to Afghanistan, Osama bin Laden, the 9/11 attacks, Guantanamo Bay, and…

This is the true story of Joe Simpson and Simon Yates' perilous and nearly fatal climb of Siula Grande, a 20,810-foot mountain in the Peruvian Andes, in 1985.

"McConkey," a 90-minute documentary releasing in 2013, is a moving look at the impact of a remarkable athlete on his sport and his journey to achieving his ambitions. Shane McConkey is celebrated as the originator of freeskiing and ski base…

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.

Fifty years later, Barak Goodman's vivid account of Woodstock brings the legendary music festival to life through the eyes of those who experienced it firsthand. The film captures the sense of freedom, passion, community, and joy that defined those three…

This documentary follows William Gates and Arthur Agee, two African-American teenagers in inner-city Chicago, as they chase their dream of playing professional basketball. They commute 90 minutes daily to St. Joseph High School in suburban Westchester, renowned for its basketball…

Pablo Escobar was the world's wealthiest and most powerful drug lord, controlling the Medellin Cartel with ruthless control. Andres Escobar was Colombia's star soccer player. Though not related, their lives became fatally linked. Pablo's drug money transformed Andres' national team…

Five broken cameras hold powerful stories. These cameras, found among the damaged remains of digital technology, reveal the experiences of Emad Burnat, a Palestinian farmer from the village of Bil’in. Bil’in became known for its peaceful resistance against the Israeli…

This film examines the aftermath of the release of three teenagers who spent nearly 20 years in prison for the murder of three young boys in Arkansas. New DNA evidence suggests they may be innocent, prompting a renewed look at…

Danish journalist Mads Brügger goes undercover as a Liberian Ambassador to undertake a risky and darkly humorous investigation into the illegal blood diamond trade in Africa.

In the 1980s, six teenage boys formed a skateboarding team. Through their shared passion, they transformed both skateboarding and their own identities, growing from feeling like outsiders into the sport's most impactful athletes.

This documentary offers an unprecedented look at "Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently," a collective of anonymous citizen journalists. Formed after their city was taken over by ISIS, they risk everything to fight back against a major global threat.

This documentary chronicles the highly publicized trial of James 'Whitey' Bulger, a notorious gangster. The legal proceedings serve as a lens to examine claims of corruption within powerful law enforcement agencies. Academy Award-nominated director Joe Berlinger investigates Bulger's complex ties…

A man who works as an optician confronts the brutal Indonesian mass killings of 1965-1966, a period that saw the death of his own brother.

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…

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.

Texas filmmaker Kevin Booth exposes a world of lies and corruption where the government is controlled by drug dealers who prioritize their corporate partners above all else.

Deep Web offers an inside look at one of the most significant digital crime stories of the decade: the arrest of Ross William Ulbricht, the 30-year-old entrepreneur convicted of being "Dread Pirate Roberts," the creator and operator of the online…

A man investigates the true story behind Kitty Genovese's alleged murder. The event, where she was reportedly attacked in broad daylight with numerous witnesses present, cemented her image as a symbol of indifference in city life. He seeks to uncover…

This film chronicles the story of Timothy Treadwell, known as "Grizzly Man," and his thirteen summers spent living in a National Park in Alaska, dedicated to protecting grizzly bears. Through distinctive footage, the documentary offers an intimate look at a…

This documentary recounts the events of June 12th, 2000, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when a young man hijacked bus 174, threatening to harm the passengers. The incident, broadcast live across Brazilian television, became a deeply disturbing portrayal of violence…

This film examines the American prison system, revealing how it reflects the country's ongoing history of racial inequality.