13 Essential Films by Errol Morris
13 titles
- 1
My Psychedelic Love StoryMovie · 2020 · 107mThis film explores the life of Timothy Leary, the controversial high priest of LSD, as seen through the intimate perspective of his renowned lover, Joanna Harcourt-Smith.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0 - 2
The B-Side: Elsa Dorfman's Portrait PhotographyMovie · 2017 · 76mIn 1980, portrait photographer Elsa Dorfman discovered her signature style with a large format Polaroid camera. For three decades, she photographed a diverse array of subjects – families, writers, musicians, and prominent figures – capturing their essence. As she approaches retirement and her iconic photographs begin to fade, Dorfman grants filmmaker Errol Morris a private look inside her extensive collection.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.8 - 3
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.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 4
The Unknown KnownMovie · 2013 · 102m · Documentary, HistoryFormer Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld recounts his career in Washington D.C., spanning from his early years as a congressman in the 1960s to his role in planning the 2003 invasion of Iraq.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 5
TabloidMovie · 2011 · 87mThis documentary examines the case of a former Miss Wyoming accused of kidnapping and holding a young Mormon missionary captive.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 6
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.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9 - 7
Fast, Cheap & Out of ControlMovie · 1997 · 83m · DocumentaryErrol Morris's documentary *Fast, Cheap & Out of Control* examines the lives of four men deeply connected to animals and driven by singular passions. The film explores their unconventional worlds and interactions with the creatures they share them with.
First, a lion tamer uses his understanding of animal psychology to shape his performances, offering a new perspective on the human-animal bond. Then, a topiary gardener has spent his life sculpting animals from hedges and trees, creating a living work of art that blends nature and design.
Another subject is fascinated by hairless mole rats, seeing individuality in their unique characteristics. Finally, an MIT scientist develops robots inspired by insects, exploring themes of control, nature, and innovation.
Through these distinct stories, *Fast, Cheap & Out of Control* offers a compelling look at human connection with animals, creativity, and the power of pursuing one's passions, prompting viewers to question their perceptions of the world.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 8
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 - 9
A Brief History of TimeMovie · 1991 · 80m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines the remarkable life of Stephen Hawking, a celebrated physicist who battled ALS throughout his career. As he progressively lost physical abilities, eventually becoming almost completely immobile and reliant on a computer to communicate, Hawking's intellectual curiosity and dedication to science remained strong. Featuring interviews with those closest to him – friends, family, classmates, and colleagues – the film offers rare insight into his revolutionary theories and the person behind them. It explores not only his significant scientific achievements but also the core of his resilience, determination, and humanity when confronted with profound challenges.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 10
Standard Operating ProcedureMovie · 2008 · 117m · Documentary, WarErrol Morris investigates the abuse and torture of detainees by American soldiers at the Abu Ghraib prison.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 11
American DharmaMovie · 2019 · 95mThis film explores the life of Stephen K. Bannon, a prominent and often divisive figure known for his role as a top advisor to Donald Trump and his leadership of the conservative website Breitbart News.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 12
The Fog of WarMovie · 2003 · 107m · Documentary, TV Movie, HistoryThe Fog of War uses archival footage, recordings of government meetings, and an interview with 85-year-old Robert McNamara to chronicle his life. It follows his journey from a promising young military officer during World War II, to president of Ford Motor Company, and finally to his role as U.S. Secretary of Defense under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson, where he oversaw the Vietnam War.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7 - 13
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.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
