W2TCH

454 Essential Documentaries to Watch

452 titles

Default orderPopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox officeAscending
  1. 401Encounters at the End of the WorldMovie · 2007 · 99m · DocumentaryDirector Werner Herzog and cinematographer Peter Zeitlinger travel to Antarctica to document the lives of those who live and work there, and to film the continent's distinctive environments. Herzog’s narration states the film will deviate from conventional Antarctic documentaries focused on wildlife, instead examining the aspirations of the inhabitants and the character of the land itself.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  2. 402The Tillman StoryMovie · 2010 · 94m · DocumentaryPat Tillman didn't see himself as a hero. He joined the military simply because he believed it was the right decision, turning down a lucrative football career. Amir Bar-Lev's powerful documentary examines the shocking way the military exploited Tillman's death in Afghanistan for propaganda purposes.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1
  3. 403Transcendent ManMovie · 2009 · 83m · DocumentaryDirector Barry Ptolemy's documentary film explores the life and debated concepts of Ray Kurzweil, a prominent figure in technology. For over thirty years, inventor and New York Times bestselling author Ray Kurzweil has been a highly regarded and often controversial voice predicting technology's impact on the future.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
  4. 404Keith Richards: Under the InfluenceMovie · 2015 · 82m · Documentary, MusicThis film explores the origins of Keith Richards' distinctive musical style as a songwriter, guitarist, and performer. It charts a journey to uncover the roots of his iconic sound.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
  5. 405Living the Change: Inspiring Stories for a Sustainable FutureMovie · 2018 · 85mIt's easy to feel powerless against today's massive global challenges: climate change, dwindling resources, economic hardship, and social isolation. Can governments alone solve these problems? *Living the Change* offers a hopeful perspective. It explores solutions to these crises through inspiring stories of individuals and communities actively creating change in their own lives and surroundings – working towards a more sustainable and regenerative future.IMDb 7.0TMDB 8.0
  6. 406The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken HeartMovie · 2020 · 111m · Music, DocumentaryThis is the story of Barry, Maurice, and Robin Gibb – the Bee Gees. The iconic brothers achieved early success in the 1960s and went on to write over a thousand songs, achieving twenty number-one hits over five decades of evolving musical trends.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6
  7. 407Concerning ViolenceMovie · 2014 · 85mThis documentary uses compelling historical footage to depict key moments in the fight for freedom in developing nations. It features excerpts from Frantz Fanon's influential book, *The Wretched of the Earth*.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0
  8. 408Tattoo UprisingMovie · 2019 · 75mThis film explores the artistic and historical origins of the current popularity of tattoos.IMDb 6.6
  9. 409American MovieMovie · 1999 · 107m · Documentary, ComedyAmerican Movie follows Mark Borchardt, an ambitious filmmaker in rural Wisconsin, as he struggles to achieve his dreams while dealing with limited money, family obligations, and personal struggles. The film documents two years of Mark's life as he works to complete his challenging project. It reveals the powerful and often contradictory feelings that motivate artists striving for success, exploring the fine line between ambition and fixation, extravagance and practicality. By honestly showing Mark’s experiences, American Movie provides a thought-provoking look at the difficult reality of the American Dream and the personal costs of chasing it.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6
  10. 410The Rise of Jordan PetersonMovie · 2019 · 90mThis film offers a rare and personal look at Jordan Peterson, the academic and bestselling author who gained widespread attention for his critiques of political correctness and his influential ideas about finding purpose in life.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.2
  11. 411Stallone: Frank, That IsMovie · 2021 · 73mThis film offers a revealing look at the life, career, and enduring journey of a largely unsung figure in Hollywood entertainment.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.9
  12. 412Living in the Future's PastMovie · 2018 · 83mJeff Bridges joins scientists and authors to explore evolution, emergence, entropy, dark ecology, and the idea that we may be witnessing the end of nature. The film uses these concepts to examine humanity's role within the Earth's ecosystem.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0
  13. 413More Than Miyagi: The Pat Morita StoryMovie · 2021 · 90m · DocumentaryThe actor who famously played Mr. Miyagi shares a raw and revealing memoir about his life. He recounts his experiences from childhood illness to navigating the complexities and prejudice of Hollywood. Beneath his warm and talented exterior, he battled inner struggles that he could never fully overcome, even with the help of alcohol and drugs.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
  14. 414The GatekeepersMovie · 2012 · 101m · Documentary, History, WarIn a revealing set of interviews, six former heads of Israel's Shin Bet – the country's intelligence and security agency – discuss their involvement in decades of counterterrorism efforts. They address the controversial tactics employed and grapple with the question of whether achieving security justifies those methods.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9
  15. 415Black Holes: The Edge of All We KnowMovie · 2020 · 98m · DocumentaryBlack holes represent the ultimate frontier of scientific understanding. To push that boundary, the Event Horizon Telescope unites observatories globally, creating a virtual Earth-sized instrument. Using this, the team captures the first-ever image of a black hole, an image shared with billions in April 2019. Simultaneously, Hawking and his colleagues tackle a fundamental paradox: do the laws of physics hold true within the extreme distortions of space and time around a black hole? Interwoven with these threads is a philosophical exploration, brought to life through expressive animation. "Edge" examines the highest levels of scientific inquiry, blending observation, theory, and philosophy to illuminate these most enigmatic objects.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6
  16. 416United We FanMovie · 2018 · 97mThe film explores the history of television fan campaigns, examining how they've changed over time. It traces the evolution from traditional methods like letters and mail-in requests to modern approaches using social media and crowdfunding platforms. The film features interviews with fans, industry professionals, and creators.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0
  17. 417Human EnergyMovie · 2018This film follows the early days of a European Renewable Energy Source Cooperative movement spanning twelve countries. It centers on individuals challenging powerful corporations through alternative approaches to the energy industry, striving to combat climate change while prioritizing local communities.IMDb 6.6TMDB 3.0
  18. 418Hunger WardMovie · 2020 · 40m · DocumentaryHUNGER WARD offers a look inside two of Yemen's busiest therapeutic feeding centers, following two female healthcare workers as they struggle to prevent starvation amidst a neglected war. The film presents a direct portrayal of Dr. Aida Alsadeeq and Nurse Mekkia Mahdi, dedicated to saving the lives of children suffering from hunger in a country facing famine.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.5
  19. 419Hoop 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
  20. 420HumanMovie · 2015 · 191m · DocumentaryThis film presents a series of stories and images exploring the essence of humanity. Through experiences of both love and conflict, it encourages reflection on ourselves and others. From ordinary moments to extraordinary lives, these heartfelt encounters reveal our shared nature – both our flaws and our potential for greatness. Stunning aerial photography and evocative music showcase the beauty of our planet, offering a moment for contemplation. A politically aware work, the film invites us to consider the human experience and the meaning of life.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.5
  21. 421HoneylandMovie · 2019 · 89m · DocumentaryIn Honeyland, a traditional nomadic beekeeper violates the fundamental rule of her craft: taking only half the honey, leaving the rest for the bees. The last female beehunter in Europe must then intervene to protect the bees and re-establish the natural order.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9
  22. 422China LoveMovie · 2018 · 86mThis film offers a look at modern China by focusing on the booming pre-wedding photography business – a world built on elaborate dreams and costing a billion dollars.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.7
  23. 423HighlineMovie · 2020 · 117mFive friends take on a ten-day hike along Utah's Uinta Highline Trail. The journey offers adventure and insight into the region's past. The film follows these hikers, revealing how they overcame adversity to succeed. It explores difficult topics like PTSD and addiction recovery.IMDb 7.9TMDB 6.0
  24. 424Sour GrapesMovie · 2016 · 86m · DocumentaryA quiet young man sparks outrage by introducing millions of dollars worth of counterfeit wines into the American market, deceiving the sophisticated wine community. This is a funny and thrilling story about a clever scam unfolding just before the 2008 financial crisis.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3
  25. 425I Am EvidenceMovie · 2017 · 89mThe U.S. criminal justice system struggles with a large number of untested rape kits stored in police facilities nationwide. Currently, only eight states have laws mandating that these kits be tested.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.4
  26. 426Animals in the Great WarMovie · 2015 · 76mDuring World War I, animals served alongside soldiers. Mules, oxen, dogs, horses, pigs, and pigeons were employed to transport supplies, communicate, and support the troops. This close proximity to animals, facing shared dangers, allowed officers and enlisted men to form bonds, offering both affection and responsibility for these vulnerable creatures. "Animals in the Great War" presents an unusual account of the war's dramatic conflicts, drawn from letters, diaries, and photographs by soldiers. Compiled by Lucio Fabi from his research, the book reconstructs memories and stories of the real-life relationships between humans and animals, both in and out of the trenches. It reveals moments of profound peace and tenderness amidst one of modern history’s most tragic periods.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4
  27. 427Sea of ShadowsMovie · 2019 · 106m · DocumentaryThe vaquita, the world’s smallest whale, is on the brink of extinction due to habitat destruction caused by Mexican cartels and the Chinese Mafia. These groups illegally harvest totoaba fish, known as the "cocaine of the sea," in a lucrative, multi-million dollar trade. Environmental activists, the Mexican navy, and undercover investigators are working to stop this illegal activity.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.7
  28. 428In the Shadow of the MoonMovie · 2007 · 109m · Documentary, HistoryThis film features previously unseen archival footage from the original NASA recordings, alongside interviews with the astronauts who walked on the Moon. The interviews include Jim Lovell, Dave Scott, John Young, Gene Cernan, Mike Collins, Buzz Aldrin, Alan Bean, Edgar Mitchell, Charlie Duke, and Harrison Schmitt.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6
  29. 429The End of MeatMovie · 2017 · 94mDespite growing evidence of meat's harmful effects on the planet and our health, and declining animal welfare, people continue to love meat. In *The End of Meat*, filmmaker Marc Pierschel explores what a world without meat would be like. He encounters Esther the Wonder Pig, a viral internet sensation; speaks with vegan pioneers in Germany; visits India's first fully vegetarian city; observes rescued farm animals thriving; and sees innovators creating meat and dairy alternatives, even harvesting "bacon" from the ocean. *The End of Meat* reveals the hidden consequences of eating meat, examines the possibilities of a more compassionate diet, and questions the future of animals in our society.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.5
  30. 430My Voyage to ItalyMovie · 1999 · 246m · DocumentaryDirector Martin Scorsese explores his favorite Italian films in this engaging documentary. He guides viewers through a diverse collection of movies that deeply influenced him, showcasing the artistry and innovation of Italian cinema. Scorsese shares his personal connection to these films, explaining their lasting impact on filmmaking. This film offers a unique look at Italian cinema from the perspective of a master director, appealing to both film enthusiasts and general audiences.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.6
  31. 431Where to Invade NextMovie · 2015 · 121m · Documentary, ComedyTo explore what the United States could gain from other countries, Michael Moore journeys to several nations, observing their approaches to various issues.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
  32. 4324 Little GirlsMovie · 1997 · 102m · Documentary, TV MovieSpike Lee's film examines the 1963 bombing of a black church in Birmingham, Alabama, during Sunday school, which killed four young girls. Using detailed research and recreations, Lee reveals the complex political tensions, hateful actions, and societal inequalities that led to this tragedy. The film includes an interview with former Alabama Governor George Wallace, who reflects on his involvement during that difficult time and the larger story of civil rights in America. This compelling film tells the painful story of a devastating act of violence and reminds us of the continuing fight for equality and justice in American history.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2
  33. 433Malika the Lion QueenMovie · 2021 · 120mThis film chronicles the life of Malika, a lioness living in South Africa's Kruger National Park, as she struggles to survive.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.0
  34. 434Wild DazeMovie · 2020 · 100mIn Africa, elephants are being brutally killed for their ivory, which is often shipped to China or smuggled into the United States. The money from this trade supports terrorist groups, allowing them to purchase weapons. WILD DAZE examines these issues through different eyes, revealing how this slaughter has drastically reduced the elephant population, deeply traumatized the survivors, and damaged the forests of East and Southern Africa.IMDb 8.3TMDB 9.0
  35. 435The Waldheim WaltzMovie · 2018 · 93mRuth Beckermann chronicles the revealing of former UN Secretary General Kurt Waldheim's history during World War II. The film details the rapid emergence of new accusations from the World Jewish Congress during his Austrian presidential bid, the denial from Austrian politicians, and the subsequent rise of anti-Semitism and nationalist sentiment that ultimately propelled him to victory.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.8
  36. 436UntouchableMovie · 2019 · 98m · DocumentaryThis film explores the story of Harvey Weinstein, detailing how he built and maintained his influence for many years, even as accusations of misconduct surfaced. Through the accounts of former colleagues and those who accuse him, the film reveals the nature and impact of the alleged abuse, with the hope of achieving justice and prompting broader change.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4
  37. 437The Beaches of AgnèsMovie · 2008 · 110m · DocumentaryLegendary filmmaker Agnès Varda, a key figure in the French New Wave, offers a personal look at her life in this documentary. The film blends excerpts from her own movies with staged scenes to tell the story of her career, the important relationships she had, and her marriage to fellow director Jacques Demy.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7
  38. 438PromisesMovie · 2001 · 106m · DocumentaryJustine Shapiro and B.Z. Goldberg journey to Israel to speak with Palestinian and Israeli children, aged 11 to 13, about their experiences growing up in a society marked by violence, division, and extreme religious and political beliefs. This 2002 Oscar nominee for Best Documentary culminates in a remarkable day when Israeli and Palestinian children meet at a refugee camp.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.5
  39. 439Free SoloMovie · 2018 · 100m · Documentary, AdventureThis film follows Alex Honnold's attempt to be the first person to free solo El Capitan, the 3,000-foot granite wall in Yosemite National Park. Without ropes or safety equipment, this climb is considered the most significant achievement in rock climbing.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9
  40. 440Capital in the Twenty-First CenturyMovie · 2019 · 103m · DocumentaryThis film adapts Thomas Piketty's influential bestseller of the same name, offering a revealing look at global wealth and power dynamics.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5
  41. 441Love, 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
  42. 442WeWork: or The Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion UnicornMovie · 2021 · 104m · DocumentaryThis is the story of WeWork, one of the most spectacular corporate collapses of the past few years, and the charismatic but troubled leader who built it: Adam Neumann. It explores the company's meteoric rise and its dramatic downfall.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6
  43. 443A Postcard from PyongyangMovie · 2019 · 80m"A Postcard from Pyongyang" follows friends Gregor Möller, Philip Kist, and Anne Lewald as they journey to North Korea in 2013 and 2017. Defying strict regulations – actions that could have resulted in imprisonment – they secretly film their travels while under the watchful eyes of state monitors. The film offers a rare look inside one of the world's most isolated societies, revealing the reality behind the idealized image promoted by the country's propaganda.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.5
  44. 444The Need to GrowMovie · 2019 · 96mWith only sixty years of viable farmland remaining, and climate change intensifying, rethinking our use of Earth's resources is critical. *The Need to Grow* offers a personal look at activists and innovators reshaping the future of food. It follows an eight-year-old girl questioning a prominent organization's practices, a farmer fighting to preserve his land while pioneering sustainable agriculture, and a brilliant inventor facing disaster as she develops potentially revolutionary technology.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4
  45. 445Our TownsMovie · 2021 · 97mThis documentary offers a compelling look at America, showcasing how small cities and towns are revitalizing themselves through new civic and economic approaches. Adapted from James and Deborah Fallows' book *Our Towns: A 100,000-Mile Journey into the Heart of America*, the film highlights local projects and examines how community spirit and shared goals are empowering people to build a brighter future for their towns.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.3
  46. 446Night Will FallMovie · 2014 · 75m · DocumentaryIn 1944-45, as Allied forces liberated Nazi concentration camps, army and newsreel cameramen documented the horrific discoveries, revealing the full extent of the atrocities. Sidney Bernstein of the Ministry of Information (later founder of Granada Television) gathered British, Soviet, and American footage to create a documentary providing lasting proof of the Nazis' crimes. He assembled a team of prominent British figures, including editor Stewart McAllister, writer Richard Crossman (who later became a cabinet minister), and Alfred Hitchcock as a treatment advisor. Despite initial backing from the British and US governments, the film was shelved for decades. Now, 70 years later, the Imperial War Museums have restored and completed it under its original title: "German Concentration Camps Factual Survey."IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6
  47. 447Six Degrees Could Change The WorldMovie · 2008 · 90mNGC presents a stunning high-definition visualization of the severe environmental consequences of even small temperature increases over the coming century.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5
  48. 448CaffeinatedMovie · 2015 · 80mThis documentary offers a unique look at how coffee shapes our everyday lives. Following coffee's journey from farms in the United States, Italy, India, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, the film immerses viewers in the human stories behind the beloved beverage, providing a perspective rarely seen.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0
  49. 449F for FakeMovie · 1973 · 89m · DocumentaryThe film explores the stories of Elmyr de Hory and Clifford Irving, two famous con artists who committed elaborate frauds that impacted the art and publishing worlds. De Hory became known for selling fake paintings by artists like Picasso and Matisse, and ultimately died by suicide to avoid further jail time. Irving gained attention for creating a false autobiography attributed to Howard Hughes. Directed by Welles, the film blends documentary and fictional storytelling to examine the complexities of fraud and the people who carefully plan these deceptions. It looks closely at these individuals and their reasons, offering a detailed look at deception, identity, and the human urge to distort reality for personal benefit.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  50. 450The Fight of Our Lives: Defeating the Ideological War Against the WestMovie · 2018Gloria Z. Greenfield's documentary, *The Fight of Our Lives - Defeating the Ideological War Against the West*, explores the challenges confronting the West, both internally and externally. As Melanie Phillips explains, "There are two threats facing the West, and they are linked. There's the threat from within, and the threat from without. And the threat from without is made much more threatening by the threat from within."IMDb 7.3TMDB 10.0
  51. 451The Sound of IdentityMovie · 2020 · 90mUnder intense media attention, the first transgender woman to star as Don Giovanni in a professional opera has a historic debut in a politically charged U.S. state.IMDb 7.6TMDB 5.5
  52. 452Heroes: Silence and Rock & RollMovie · 2021 · 95m · Documentary, MusicThis documentary explores the beginnings and rapid ascent of Héroes del Silencio, a groundbreaking Spanish rock band from the 1980s known for their distinctive sound and impactful lyrics. The film highlights Enrique Bunbury, the band's charismatic leader, whose talent and stage presence were key to their rise to fame. Using interviews with the band, archival footage, and live performances, the film charts Héroes del Silencio's musical journey through the challenges and successes of the Madrid music scene. It examines themes of passion, creativity, and music’s ability to connect people, while also revealing the personal difficulties and sacrifices that came with their success. The documentary celebrates Héroes del Silencio's lasting influence on Spanish rock and its impact worldwide. It provides an intimate look at a significant period in music history, offering viewers a firsthand experience of the band's powerful energy and emotion.IMDb 7.4TMDB 8.4

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