115 Essential Documentary Films from BFI
115 titles
- 101
Hoop DreamsMovie · 1994 · 174m · DocumentaryThis 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 program. Juggling intense practice with everyday hardships, William and Arthur find strong support from their families while striving for success in the NBA. Filmed over five years, this intimate film reveals their lives and the obstacles young athletes face when pursuing ambitious goals.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.6 - 102
A British Picture: Portrait of an Enfant TerribleMovie · 1989 · 50mThe latest autobiography from Britain’s most controversial film director, known for films like *Women in Love*, *The Devils*, *Tommy*, and *The Rainbow*, is as unique and insightful as his work. Russell journeys through his life in a series of connected stories: his childhood in Southampton, his first sexual encounter (watching Disney's *Pinocchio*), his time at the Nautical College, Pangbourne, early jobs in the Merchant Marine and Royal Air Force, dancing with the Shepherds Bush Ballet Club, and his career as a filmmaker, starting with an unusual interview with Huw Weldon for a position on Monitor. Filled with amusing stories and revealing glimpses into the life of a film director, *A British Picture* is a truly remarkable autobiography.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.8 - 103
Talking HeadsMovie · 1980 · 15m · DocumentaryThis film explores identity and what people want out of life. It follows a diverse group of characters – different ages, jobs, and backgrounds – as they ask themselves, "Who am I?" and "What do I really want?" The movie offers intimate glimpses into their lives, revealing common human experiences that connect us all. Through honest moments, self-reflection, and humor, it reminds us of our need to connect with others, understand ourselves, and find satisfaction in a constantly changing world.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 104
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.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 105
Let There Be LightMovie · 1946 · 58m · Documentary, WarJohn Huston's 1946 film explores the hidden struggles of soldiers returning from war, focusing on the emotional damage they endure alongside physical injuries. This is the concluding film in a U.S. government-commissioned trilogy, offering a powerful look at what we now understand as post-traumatic stress disorder, then known as psychoneurosis or shell-shock.
The movie's honest depiction of soldiers battling inner turmoil remains relevant today, revealing the war's lasting impact on individuals and society. Initially considered controversial by the government, it wasn't shown until 1981. Now, it powerfully reminds us of the enduring scars of war and the need to address both the physical and emotional wounds of those who serve.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 106
In the Year of the PigMovie · 1969 · 101mProducer-director Emile de Antonio's *In the Year of the Pig* is a powerful and potentially controversial documentary about the Vietnam War. It presents a stark and unflinching look at the conflict.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 107
Lessons of DarknessMovie · 1992 · 54m · War, DocumentaryFollowing the Gulf War, Kuwait is a devastated landscape scarred by oil fires. Werner Herzog's film documents this apocalyptic environment, capturing the eerie atmosphere of murky skies, burned earth, and unpredictable flames. The documentary explores the war's destruction and humanity's connection to nature, examining the consequences of our actions. Herzog masterfully portrays resilience, survival, and the fragility of life amidst the ruins. The film is a powerful reminder of nature’s force, presenting both its beauty and horror.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 108
One Man's WarMovie · 1982 · 105mAccording to the New York Times, the film presents a conversation between discovered materials: the surprisingly composed, almost ordinary wartime journals of Ernst Jünger, a German writer and officer stationed in occupied Paris during World War II, and documentary footage depicting the reality of Paris at the time.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.0 - 109
The Steel RoadMovie · 1929 · 78mA bold and thrilling documentary detailing the construction of the Turkestan-Siberian railway, portrayed as a major victory for Soviet advancement against challenging natural obstacles.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.8 - 110
Time IndefiniteMovie · 1993 · 114mFollowing his wedding, documentarian Ross McElwee experiences a series of tragedies: his grandmother passes away, his wife suffers a miscarriage, and his father dies shortly after. Deeply affected by these sudden losses, McElwee becomes depressed. Seeking solace with his friend and former poetry teacher, Charlene, he visits his brother, a doctor. Through a series of interviews, McElwee reflects on his intense focus on death and attempts to overcome it.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9 - 111
Chronicle of a SummerMovie · 1961 · 91m · DocumentaryParis, summer 1960. Anthropologist and filmmaker Jean Rouch joins forces with sociologist and critic Edgar Morin for a documentary exploring how people cope with difficulties. They interview ordinary Parisians on the streets, asking them about their resilience. The film combines these diverse stories to offer a genuine and moving look at the human capacity to overcome hardship.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 112
Dream of LightMovie · 1992 · 138m · DocumentaryFilmmaker Victor Erice follows Spanish artist Antonio López as he painstakingly paints a tree. The film examines López’s detailed artistic process and the philosophical and emotional motivations behind his pursuit of capturing the tree's essence with such accuracy. Erice highlights the beauty in everyday moments, the challenges, and small victories as López strives for perfection. With beautiful visuals and interviews, the film explores creativity and the artist’s connection to their work. It's a captivating look at dedication to art, offering a unique view of the creative process.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 113
Grizzly ManMovie · 2005 · 103m · DocumentaryThis 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 man who devoted his life to nature, ultimately sacrificing himself for it.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 114
Coal FaceMovie · 1935 · 11mThis 1935 documentary chronicles the demanding lives of Welsh coal miners. It offers a realistic portrayal of their daily struggles and tireless work.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1 - 115
Paris Is BurningMovie · 1991 · 78m · Documentary"Paris Is Burning" is a landmark documentary exploring the African American and Latinx drag ball culture of 1980s Harlem. The film examines voguing, an expressive dance form central to this community, and "throwing shade," a style of playful verbal sparring. The filmmaker documents competitive fashion houses vying for recognition, while also revealing the hardships faced by those involved. Over seven years, it offers a deeply personal look at the strength and bonds within this community navigating homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Through interviews with influential figures like Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza, the film shares their stories and the distinctive subculture they built despite facing adversity.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0
