Top Documentary Portraits: Unforgettable Stories Streaming Now
26 titles
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BuckMovie · 2011 · 89m · DocumentaryThis film explores the life of Buck Brannaman, the renowned horse trainer known for his gentle approach. Brannaman overcame a difficult childhood marked by abuse to develop a respected understanding of the connection between humans and horses.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3
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Joan Rivers: A Piece of WorkMovie · 2010 · 84m · DocumentaryThis documentary chronicles the life and career of Joan Rivers, created to celebrate the comedienne's 75th birthday.Stream on - 3
Vernon, FloridaMovie · 1981 · 55m · DocumentaryEarly in his career, acclaimed documentarian Errol Morris films a captivating look at Vernon, Florida. Using unexpected snippets of conversations with the town's unusual residents, the film introduces a variety of distinctive people. We meet a preacher deeply analyzing the word "Therefore" during a sermon, and an intense turkey hunter who speaks with reverence about his quest for wild turkeys. Through these characters, Morris explores human oddities and the unique passions that shape lives within Vernon's distinctive community.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
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First PositionMovie · 2011 · 90m · DocumentaryThis documentary follows six talented young dancers from different countries as they train for the Youth America Grand Prix, a highly competitive and renowned ballet competition.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2
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A Complete History of My Sexual FailuresMovie · 2008 · 90m · Documentary, RomanceDocumentary filmmaker Chris Waitt explores his own struggles with relationships and intimacy through a series of uncomfortable interviews with former girlfriends and provocative experiments in S&M clubs, with doctors, and involving medication. The film is frequently funny, occasionally poignant, and resonates with anyone who has felt like a romantic failure.Stream onIMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2
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Gates of HeavenMovie · 1978 · 83m · DocumentaryThe film gently examines a pet cemetery, a place where people gather to say goodbye to their departed animals. This documentary follows the people who run the cemetery and the pet owners who bring their animals there for final rest. With empathy, the film shows the comforting rituals of pet funerals, how shared sadness helps people heal, and the strong bond between humans and their pets. Through personal stories and visuals, the film celebrates the connection we have with animals while honestly portraying the pain of losing them.Stream on - 7
Mr. Death: The Rise and Fall of Fred A. Leuchter, Jr.Movie · 1999 · 91m · DocumentaryThis film explores the life and work of Fred A. Leuchter Jr., a designer of execution devices who became a focal point of controversy. He was hired by Holocaust revisionist Ernst Zundel to examine the existence of gas chambers at Auschwitz, and his findings sparked intense debate. The documentary focuses on Leuchter, but also includes interviews with historians, colleagues, and neighbors, revealing aspects of his personal and professional life. Using footage from execution facilities and Auschwitz, the film offers a compelling look at truth, conviction, and the consequences of pursuing a specific belief.Stream on - 8
Brother's KeeperMovie · 1992 · 104m · DocumentaryJoe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky's documentary offers an intimate look at the trial of Delbert Ward, a member of a secluded family of four elderly brothers who lived as farmers in rural America. Their isolated world is disrupted when one of the brothers, William, dies under suspicious circumstances, and Delbert is charged with his murder.
The film closely examines this real-life drama, revealing the complexities of the brothers' lives and the judicial process. Through detailed documentation, Berlinger and Sinofsky present an honest portrayal of Delbert Ward's trial, exploring themes of family, prejudice, and the difficulties faced by those living apart from mainstream society. The film is a powerful exploration of human nature, prompting viewers to consider understanding and empathy for those who are different.Stream on - 9
The Thin Blue LineMovie · 1988 · 103m · Crime, DocumentaryDocumentarian Errol Morris uses detailed re-enactments to explore the difficult events following the murder of a Dallas police officer. He reconstructs the crime scene and investigation to examine the complicated mix of truth, deception, and emotions involved in such a tragedy. Combining cinematic storytelling with investigative journalism, Morris creates a compelling narrative that reveals the human side of the story behind the news. The film examines themes of justice, trust, and loyalty, while also highlighting the difficulties faced by law enforcement today.Stream on - 10
How to Survive a PlagueMovie · 2012 · 109m · Documentary, HistoryThis is the story of two activist groups, ACT UP and TAG, who revolutionized the fight against AIDS. Through innovative activism, they transformed a deadly disease into something manageable. Without medical backgrounds, these determined individuals challenged the pharmaceutical industry, helping to fast-track promising new drugs from testing to patients.Stream on - 11
Into the AbyssMovie · 2011 · 105m · Documentary, CrimeWe 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 their individual stories and the circumstances of their crimes.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
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Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial KillerMovie · 2003 · 89m · Documentary, CrimeDocumentarian Nick Broomfield returns to the story of Aileen Wuornos, the Florida woman convicted of murdering six men between 1989 and 1990. Broomfield interviews Wuornos as she becomes increasingly unstable, exploring the troubled mind of a woman the Florida authorities consider mentally competent for execution. The film incorporates footage from Broomfield's own testimony during Wuornos' trial.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
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The SummitMovie · 2013 · 95m · Adventure, Documentary, Drama"The Summit," a 2012 documentary by Nick Ryan, recounts the devastating 2008 K2 disaster. The film blends documentary footage with dramatized recreations to depict the events that unfolded as eleven climbers perished in a short period on their ascent and descent. Much of the footage was captured by Swedish mountaineer Fredrik Sträng, who had intended to film a documentary but was unable to reach the summit. His footage proved crucial in clarifying the conflicting accounts surrounding the tragedy.Stream on - 14
Jiro Dreams of SushiMovie · 2011 · 82m · DocumentaryMaster sushi chef Jiro Ono relentlessly pursues perfection in his craft. His eldest son, Yoshikazu, struggles to measure up to his father's renowned legacy.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7
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The Seven FiveMovie · 2015 · 102m · DocumentaryMichael Dowd was the most corrupt police officer in New York City's history. During the 1980s, while on duty in Brooklyn, he engaged in theft and drug dealing.Stream on - 16
Dirty WarsMovie · 2013 · 87m · Documentary, Drama, CrimeJournalist 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.Stream on - 17
The Punk SingerMovie · 2013 · 80m · Documentary, MusicThis film explores the life of Kathleen Hanna, a musician, activist, and influential figure in popular culture. She was the driving force behind the punk band Bikini Kill and a key figure in the 1990s "riot grrrl" movement.Stream on - 18
Deep WaterMovie · 2006 · 92m · Documentary, Adventure, DramaDEEP WATER is the compelling true story of Donald Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who attempts the ultimate nautical feat: the first solo, non-stop, round-the-world yacht race.Stream on - 19
Nothing Like a DameMovie · 2018 · 80m · DocumentaryThis BBC Arena documentary profiles four legendary British actresses – Maggie Smith, Eileen Atkins, Judi Dench, and Joan Plowright – who share memories of their careers. The film captures a rare moment as the Dames are together on screen, reminiscing over a summer weekend in a house once shared by Sir Laurence Olivier.Stream on - 20
DancerMovie · 2016 · 85m · DocumentarySergei Polunin is a remarkably gifted ballet dancer on the cusp of legendary status, but he begins to doubt his life and his dedication to dance.Stream on - 21
Ai Weiwei: Never SorryMovie · 2012 · 92m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the challenges faced by Ai Weiwei, the Chinese artist renowned for his provocative art and outspoken political views, between 2008 and 2011. It follows his ascent to international recognition through online platforms, culminating in his widely reported arrest as a result of his repeated and bold challenges to the Chinese government.Stream on - 22
WeinerMovie · 2016 · 96m · DocumentaryThis documentary offers an unprecedented, behind-the-scenes view of Anthony Weiner's 2013 bid to become New York City mayor. It follows his campaign after the fallout from his sexting scandal. The film features complete access to Weiner and his team.Stream on - 23
Room 237Movie · 2012 · 102m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines different interpretations of Stanley Kubrick’s film *The Shining*, exploring various theories about hidden meanings within the story. It presents five distinct perspectives, using narration, film excerpts, animation, and dramatized scenes to illustrate each viewpoint.Stream on - 24
PinaMovie · 2011 · 106m · Documentary"Pina" is a 3D dance film featuring the renowned Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch company, created by the influential German choreographer who passed away in the summer of 2009.Stream on - 25
Finding Vivian MaierMovie · 2014 · 83m · DocumentaryVivian Maier's photographs were hidden away, lost among the many possessions she accumulated. Now, these images have revolutionized street photography and profoundly impacted the life of John Maloof, the man who shared them with the world. This film recounts the surprising story of how Maloof discovered Vivian Maier, piecing together her mysterious life through her films, photographs, collections, and the recollections of those who knew her. What began as a simple blog showcasing her work quickly gained widespread attention in the photography community. Photos once discarded are now featured in galleries, a forthcoming book, and this documentary.Stream on - 26
Touching the VoidMovie · 2003 · 106m · Documentary, Action, AdventureThis 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.Stream on
