W2TCH

30 Thought-Provoking Documentaries That Explore Human Stories and History

30 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 1No Direction Home: Bob DylanMovie · 2005 · 208m · Documentary, MusicThis film follows Bob Dylan's transformation between 1961 and 1966. It charts his journey from a folk singer to a protest artist, then to a figure seen as representing his generation, and finally to a rock icon.Stream onIMDb 8.4TMDB 7.7
  2. 2Kissing GorbaciovMovie · 2023 · 97m · DocumentaryIn a small town in Salento, a group of Soviet rock bands embark on an eight-day tour between Moscow and Leningrad. This journey across two worlds profoundly changes them forever.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.7
  3. 3Director by NightMovie · 2022 · 54m · DocumentaryAward-winning composer Michael Giacchino directed Marvel Studios' "Werewolf by Night," a special presentation. This behind-the-scenes feature delves into Giacchino's creative process and how he crafted the film's eerie story. It also provides an inside look at the production of "Werewolf by Night."Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4
  4. 4Reported Missing: The Murder of Danielle JonesMovie · 2023 · 85m · Crime, DocumentaryThe film investigates the disappearance of young Danielle Jones on June 18, 2001, en route to school. It's a story of obsession, grooming, and murder that unfolds within the family. This landmark police case remains unsolved, with no body ever found and no definitive crime scene.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  5. 5Kim's VideoMovie · 2023 · 89m · Documentary, HistoryFor nearly thirty years, starting in 1987, New York movie lovers relied on Kim's Video, a small business built by the mysterious Yongman Kim. Kim amassed a collection of over fifty thousand VHS tapes, creating a remarkable archive of rare films.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9
  6. 6Apocalypse '45Movie · 2020 · 104m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the difficult conclusion of World War II, told through the experiences of 24 men who lived through it, utilizing previously unseen footage.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  7. 7Judah Friedlander: America Is the Greatest Country in the United StatesMovie · 2017 · 84m · Comedy, DocumentaryComedian Judah Friedlander, known for his deadpan delivery and self-proclaimed "World Champion" status, performs a new comedy special over several nights in New York City. He uses his signature humor to explore and celebrate why America is considered the best. Friedlander’s witty and engaging performance tackles subjects that are both funny and thought-provoking, offering a unique and captivating experience. The special provides an intimate look into his perspective on patriotism, humor, and absurdity. Viewers will laugh at the unexpected turns in Friedlander's routine while considering questions about American identity. This showcase highlights comedy’s ability to connect people, even when discussing national identity.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2
  8. 8League of Legends: OriginsMovie · 2019 · 77m · Documentary"League of Legends" went from a free online trial to a massive global esports phenomenon, a journey explored by fans, experts, and those who built the game.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.1
  9. 9Creating CarrieMovie · 2014 · 21m · Horror, DocumentaryThis film offers a look at the production of the 2013 remake of Carrie, adapted from the popular novel by Stephen King.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2
  10. 10Future by DesignMovie · 2006 · 86m · DocumentaryFuture by Design explores the life and extensive vision of Jacque Fresco, often compared to a modern-day Leonardo da Vinci. Like Einstein and Buckminster Fuller, Fresco is a self-taught futurist who identifies as a "generalist," deeply knowledgeable across many interconnected disciplines.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3
  11. 11The Truffle HuntersMovie · 2020 · 84m · DocumentaryDeep in the Northern Italian forests, a small community of elderly men and their dogs embark on a quest for the highly prized white Alba truffle – the world's most expensive culinary treasure. Their pursuit unfolds like a modern-day fairy tale, showcasing the enduring power of human passion in a landscape seemingly untouched by time.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.5
  12. 12Be WaterMovie · 2020 · 105m · DocumentaryAfter being unsuccessful in Hollywood in 1971, Bruce Lee returned to Hong Kong to make four of his most famous films. This film examines his life as he navigated his identity between American and Chinese cultures, using rare footage, interviews with those who knew him, and his own writings.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7
  13. 13Mafia Is Not What It Used to BeMovie · 2019 · 111m · DocumentaryPalermo, Sicily, Italy, 2017. Twenty-five years have passed since the murders of anti-mafia judges Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino in 1992. As tributes are held to honor these figures, skeptical photographer Letizia Battaglia, who documented their fight against the mafia, voices her disapproval of those who exploit the tragedies for personal gain, such as businessman Ciccio Mira.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.6
  14. 14Pandora's PromiseMovie · 2013 · 89m · DocumentaryThe atomic bomb, fears of nuclear war, and events like Fukushima have linked nuclear energy with modern anxieties. But what if our understanding of nuclear power is fundamentally flawed? What if there exist reactors that are inherently safe and controllable, requiring no waste? What if nuclear power is the only solution to climate change?Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
  15. 15WWII From SpaceMovie · 2012 · 88m · Documentary, History, WarWWII from Space presents World War II with a unique perspective. This HISTORY special uses satellite imagery to show the conflict from above, providing a global view of key events. It recreates historical moments and illustrates how events unfolded simultaneously, revealing their far-reaching consequences. The special also highlights how the nation, which ranked 19th in military strength in 1939, became the world's only atomic superpower by 1945.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  16. 16Hot Girls WantedMovie · 2015 · 84m · DocumentaryThis film offers an unprecedented glimpse into the world of professional adult entertainment, focusing on the increasing number of 18 and 19-year-old women who choose to work in the industry.Stream onIMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1
  17. 17John Was Trying to Contact AliensMovie · 2020 · 16m · DocumentaryFor thirty years, John Shepherd dedicated his life to contacting aliens by sending music signals into deep space. When he finally abandons that pursuit, he unexpectedly forms a connection with someone right here on Earth.Stream onIMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1
  18. 18GascoigneMovie · 2015 · 90m · DocumentaryThis 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.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
  19. 19Life Overtakes MeMovie · 2019 · 39m · DocumentaryIn Sweden, a deeply affecting issue has arisen among young refugee children who have experienced severe trauma and been forced from their homes. They are diagnosed with "Resignation Syndrome," a condition where these strong but fragile children enter a prolonged state of near-unconsciousness, withdrawing from the world for months or even years. With deportation approaching, the children struggle to adapt to their new lives, their minds and bodies reacting to their experiences in this unique way. The film explores the difficult realities of their lives, presenting a direct look at human strength and the lasting effects of trauma.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5
  20. 20Kevin Hart: Zero F**ks GivenMovie · 2020 · 69m · Comedy, Documentary, TV MovieKevin Hart delivers comedy and pizza from his home, sharing insights on men's group chats, intimacy later in life, and navigating the COVID-19 pandemic.Stream onIMDb 6.1TMDB 6.7
  21. 21They'll Love Me When I'm DeadMovie · 2018 · 98m · DocumentaryFacing his mortality, legendary Hollywood director Orson Welles risks everything on a new film, *The Other Side of the Wind*, hoping for a final triumph.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
  22. 22Andrés Iniesta: The Unexpected HeroMovie · 2020 · 106m · DocumentaryThe film follows an ordinary individual who achieves remarkable success by focusing on meticulous detail. His unique approach to the game—a dedication to the small things—is what sets him apart as a soccer player.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.6
  23. 23Pray AwayMovie · 2021 · 101m · DocumentaryDuring the 1970s, five men grappling with their gay identities within an Evangelical church started a bible study to help each other change. They soon received over 25,000 requests for assistance and established Exodus International, becoming the world's largest and most debated conversion therapy organization. However, the leaders privately battled unresolved same-sex attractions. After years as prominent figures in the religious right, many have since identified as LGBTQ+, rejecting the movement they founded. PRAY AWAY examines the "ex-gay" movement's rise to prominence, its lasting impact, and the significant damage it inflicts, through the stories of former leaders, current participants, and a survivor.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 6.7
  24. 24The Show Must Go On: The Queen + Adam Lambert StoryMovie · 2019 · 81m · Music, DocumentaryThis documentary follows the remarkable story of Queen and Lambert, beginning with their first performance together on "American Idol" in 2009. It chronicles their journey as a musical duo.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5
  25. 25The Death of "Superman Lives": What Happened?Movie · 2015 · 105m · Documentary"The Death of 'Superman Lives': What Happened?" chronicles the development of the ambitious, ultimately abandoned "Superman Lives" film. Directed by Tim Burton and starring Nicolas Cage as Superman, the project spanned years before being canceled. The documentary features interviews with key figures involved, including Kevin Smith, Tim Burton, Jon Peters, Dan Gilroy, Colleen Atwood, Lorenzo di Bonaventura, and many others.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
  26. 26OLIVIA RODRIGO: driving home 2 u (a SOUR film)Movie · 2022 · 76m · Music, DocumentaryGrammy-winning singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo revisits the road from Salt Lake City, where she wrote her first album, "SOUR," to Los Angeles. She reflects on the album's creation and shares her experiences as a young woman during that period. The film features new live performances of her songs, intimate interviews, and previously unseen footage from the album's making, offering a cinematic look at the story behind "SOUR."Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.8
  27. 27Einstein and the BombMovie · 2024 · 77m · Documentary, DramaFollowing his escape from Nazi Germany, this documentary uses archival footage and Einstein's own words to explore the inner world of a deeply troubled genius.Stream onIMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1
  28. 28Good Night OppyMovie · 2022 · 105m · DocumentaryThis is the inspiring true story of Opportunity, a Mars rover designed for a 90-day mission that unexpectedly lived for 15 years. The film chronicles Opportunity's pioneering exploration of the Martian surface and the extraordinary connection developed between the rover and the team of scientists who controlled her from Earth, spanning millions of miles.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5
  29. 2920 Feet from StardomMovie · 2013 · 89m · Documentary, MusicThe 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 world they inhabit.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  30. 30TPB AFK: The Pirate Bay - Away from KeyboardMovie · 2013 · 82m · Documentary, CrimeTPB AFK is a documentary about three computer enthusiasts who revolutionized media sharing with their website, The Pirate Bay. The film explores how Tiamo, a beer-loving hardware expert; Brokep, an environmentally conscious activist; and Anakata, a paranoid hacker with libertarian views, managed to provoke the White House into threatening trade sanctions against Sweden. The documentary examines the personal lives of these controversial figures, widely known for their defiance of Hollywood's copyright policies.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2