225 Essential Documentary Films About Life
225 titles
- 201
Harlow: The Blonde BombshellMovie · 1993 · 48mSharon Stone presents a documentary exploring the life and career of 1930s icon Jean Harlow. The film features clips from her movies, photographs, and stories detailing her early life before fame. It also covers her difficult personal life, including a controlling mother, the end of her three marriages, and the tragic suicide of her second husband.IMDb 6.5TMDB 8.5 - 202
My Mom JayneMovie · 2025 · 106m · DocumentaryMariska gathers insights from her siblings and explores her mother Jayne Mansfield's photographs, letters, and personal items to create a fresh look at the woman – a figure who was both remarkable and multifaceted.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0 - 203
Rock Hudson: All That Heaven AllowedMovie · 2023 · 105mThis film explores the life of iconic actor Rock Hudson, revealing the contrast between his carefully crafted public image as a charming heterosexual and his private identity as a gay man. It's a timely look at Hollywood and LGBTQ+ identity.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.7 - 204
HalMovie · 2019 · 90mHal Ashby was a brilliant filmmaker known for a series of acclaimed movies like *Harold and Maude*, *Shampoo*, and *Being There*. However, while directors like Coppola, Scorsese, and Spielberg gained popularity with big-budget films in the 1980s, Ashby's dedication to his artistic vision created a conflict between his work and the demands of the film industry.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.5 - 205
Art Paul of Playboy: The Man Behind the BunnyMovie · 2020 · 73mART PAUL OF PLAYBOY: The Man Behind the Bunny is a documentary exploring the innovations and influence of Art Paul. He was the creator of Playboy's iconic bunny logo and the founding art director who shaped the magazine’s visual identity for its first 30 years. A gifted artist himself, Paul produced thousands of drawings and paintings. The film blends interviews with archival footage and examples of his work – both art directed by him and created by him – to portray a legendary figure. It is a MoraQuest Media production based in Chicago.IMDb 6.2 - 206
Judi Dench: Our National TreasureMovie · 2022 · 66mThis is a look at the life of an actress who grew up in a strict Quaker household in Yorkshire and fought to become a performer. The film explores her roles in popular television shows like *A Fine Romance* and *As Time Goes By*, where her performances earned her four BAFTA awards, as well as her work in the James Bond series.TMDB 8.0 - 207
Chuck Jones: Extremes and In-Betweens - A Life in AnimationMovie · 2000 · 90mThis documentary, broadcast on PBS as part of the "Great Performances" series, explores the life and work of Chuck Jones, a highly acclaimed animator from Hollywood. He is famous for his contributions to Warner Brothers cartoons, which introduced iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Porky Pig, Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote, and Pepe Le Pew. The film features detailed insights into the animation process, alongside numerous clips showcasing Jones's memorable cartoons.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.8 - 208
ClerkMovie · 2021 · 115mThis film chronicles Kevin Smith's journey, from his upbringing in New Jersey to the moment he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The film features appearances from many well-known figures who speak in support of Smith's iconic character, Silent Bob.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.0 - 209
Yul Brynner, the MagnificentMovie · 2020 · 52mThis is the remarkable story of Yul Brynner (1920-1985), the iconic Russian-American actor and filmmaker, who captivated audiences as the most alluring sex symbol since Rudolph Valentino. It follows his unusual journey from Parisian cabarets to Broadway and ultimately, Hollywood. The film chronicles the ascent of a multifaceted talent who achieved legendary status as a leading man.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.5 - 210
Anna Nicole Smith: You Don't Know MeMovie · 2023 · 116m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the life of Anna Nicole Smith, from her rise to prominence as a model to her untimely death, as seen through the perspectives of those who knew her best.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.0 - 211
The Haunted World of Edward D. Wood, Jr.Movie · 1996 · 112mEd Wood is often considered one of the worst directors ever, but he's a cult hero for his unusual films. This documentary explores Wood’s career on the fringes of 1950s Hollywood, featuring perspectives from those who admired and criticized him. Bela Lugosi Jr. discusses his father's infamous film, "Plan 9 From Outer Space," while a minister recounts being persuaded to fund it.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.6 - 212
Laddie: The Man Behind the MoviesMovie · 2017 · 83mThis is a look at Alan Ladd Jr., the influential producer and former head of 20th Century Fox during the 1970s.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.4 - 213
Shirley Maclaine: Kicking Up Her HeelsMovie · 1996 · 60mShirley MacLaine and her brother Warren Beatty left their strict middle-class upbringing for the world of show business. Thanks to ballet training and a captivating presence, she quickly found success in Broadway musical comedy. Soon, Hollywood offered her a role in Hitchcock's "The Trouble With Harry" in 1955. She then landed significant dramatic parts alongside leading men like Fred MacMurray, Jack Lemmon, Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood, and Robert Mitchum.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4 - 214
FayeMovie · 2024 · 91m · Documentary, TV MovieFaye Dunaway offers a candid look at her life and career, drawing on reflections and perspectives from those around her. She explores her personal challenges with mental health and addresses the unequal treatment women faced in Hollywood.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.3 - 215
Love, GildaMovie · 2018 · 84m · DocumentaryPersonal diaries, audio recordings, video footage, and accounts from friends and coworkers provide a look into the life and career of Gilda Radner, the celebrated comedian and actress who achieved iconic status on Saturday Night Live.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 216
Frank and OllieMovie · 1995 · 89m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the lives and careers of Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, two legendary animators who were central to the development of Disney's early animation. Pioneers in their field, they created iconic films like Bambi, Pinocchio, Lady and the Tramp, and The Jungle Book. Their innovative techniques shaped the foundation for later classics like The Lion King, establishing Disney's reputation for exceptional animation, music, and storytelling. The film follows their journey as they share behind-the-scenes stories, personal insights, and the inspirations behind some of history’s most beloved animated movies.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 217
imagine... Miriam Margolyes: Up for GrabsMovie · 2022 · 66mMiriam Margolyes is a highly acclaimed and often outspoken actress. Throughout her diverse career, she's delivered memorable performances in shows like Blackadder, narrated popular commercials, and gained international recognition as Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter movies.IMDb 8.1 - 218
Cheech & Chong's Last MovieMovie · 2025 · 123m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the five-decade career of a comedy icon, from stand-up and record releases to leading roles in popular movies. It explores their life, their comedic partnership, and their enduring impact on pop culture.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 219
ValMovie · 2021 · 109m · DocumentaryFor over 40 years, Val Kilmer, a famously enigmatic actor, has documented his life and work through film and video. He has accumulated thousands of hours of footage, from personal 16mm home movies with his brothers to behind-the-scenes moments from major films like Top Gun, The Doors, Tombstone, and Batman Forever. This revealing documentary offers a raw, original, and honest look at a life lived intensely, and a sometimes humorous exploration of what it means to be an artist and a complicated person.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2 - 220
You Don't Know Jack: The Jack Soo StoryMovie · 2009 · 70mThe film chronicles the life of actor Jack Soo, using clips from his work and rare footage alongside interviews with those who knew him. It explores Soo’s career, starting with appearances on shows like *The Jack Benny Show*, set against the backdrop of a vibrant, old Hollywood where actors often excelled in many areas. The film examines his journey from announcer and comedian to Broadway performer, singer, actor, and dancer, ultimately focusing on his iconic role as Detective Nick Yemana. Through images, music, interviews, and personal stories, the film captures Soo’s talent and dedication to his art.IMDb 7.2 - 221
My Name Is Alfred HitchcockMovie · 2023 · 120mMark Cousins' *My Name is Alfred Hitchcock* explores the extensive body of work and lasting impact of Alfred Hitchcock, a towering figure in 20th-century cinema. The film presents a fresh perspective on Hitchcock's life and career by focusing on his own words.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.9 - 222
Walter Winchell: The Power of GossipMovie · 2020 · 60mThis is the story of Walter Winchell, the influential radio commentator and newspaper gossip columnist. At his height, he captivated a massive audience of 50 million listeners.IMDb 7.6TMDB 10.0 - 223
Bob Fosse: It's Showtime!Movie · 2019 · 62mThis film explores the remarkable life and work of a highly influential director, choreographer, and cinematographer, marked by a tendency towards self-destruction.IMDb 5.8 - 224
Joseph Pulitzer: Voice of the PeopleMovie · 2019 · 84mThis is the story of Joseph Pulitzer, a Hungarian immigrant who transformed the world of news. He redefined how information was delivered, who it reached, and the impact of empowering ordinary people with access to it.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.3 - 225
Omar Sharif: Citizen of the WorldMovie · 2020 · 53mOmar Sharif (1932-2015) rose to international fame starring in numerous large-scale epic films. More than just an actor, he was known for his love of bridge, his charm with women, and his enjoyment of life's pleasures. A man of many contrasts, he often preferred card games to acting and lived a nomadic existence, spending much of his life in hotels.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0
