W2TCH

67 Insightful Documentary Films

67 titles

Default orderPopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox officeAscending
  1. 1Cartel LandMovie · 2015 · 100m · Drama, DocumentaryIn Michoacán, Mexico, Dr. Jose Mireles, a respected local doctor known as "El Doctor," leads a popular movement against the Knights Templar, a brutal drug cartel that has plagued the area for years. Simultaneously, in Arizona's Altar Valley – a 52-mile desert region called Cocaine Alley – Tim "Nailer" Foley, a veteran, commands Arizona Border Recon, a small paramilitary group dedicated to preventing the Mexican drug wars from spreading into the United States.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  2. 2Children UndergroundMovie · 2001 · 104m · DocumentaryChildren Underground tells the story of five street children, aged eight to sixteen, who make their home in a Bucharest subway station. Daily, commuters pass them by as the children struggle to survive, resorting to begging, petty theft, and deception while desperately seeking paint to use for its intoxicating effects.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.4
  3. 3Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of BeliefMovie · 2015 · 120m · Documentary, TV MovieGOING CLEAR closely examines the experiences of eight former members of the Church of Scientology, revealing the methods used to draw people in and the actions taken in the name of their faith.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6
  4. 4BlackfishMovie · 2013 · 83m · DocumentaryBlackfish examines the troubling effects of keeping highly intelligent and emotional animals like killer whales in captivity. The documentary focuses on Tilikum, a notorious orca who has been involved in the deaths of three people, including a trainer. It reveals the sometimes tragic consequences of this practice.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.8
  5. 5Exit Through the Gift ShopMovie · 2010 · 86m · DocumentaryBanksy is a world-famous graffiti artist whose art appears on walls worldwide, from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina to the West Bank. He fiercely protects his anonymity to avoid legal trouble and has never been filmed. *Exit Through the Gift Shop* is the surprising true story of a quirky French shop owner who tried to find and befriend Banksy, only for the artist to redirect the camera back at him.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5
  6. 6EarthlingsMovie · 2005 · 95m · DocumentaryEarthlings uses hidden cameras to document the daily realities of the world's largest industries, all of which depend on animals for financial gain.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.1
  7. 7The Act of KillingMovie · 2012 · 117m · Documentary, HistoryThis disturbing documentary features former Indonesian death squad leaders performing dramatizations of their past mass killings, using different film styles. The reenactments create a confusing mix of reality and fiction, revealing the lasting effects of Indonesia's 1965-66 anti-communist violence and offering a glimpse into the minds of those who carried it out.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.7
  8. 8Night and FogMovie · 1959 · 32m · Documentary, HistoryAlain Resnais's documentary offers a disturbing look at the worst of human history, detailing the shocking events within Adolf Hitler's concentration camps. The film highlights the strength and bravery of those who survived, while also exposing the brutal conditions and atrocities committed by the Nazis against innocent people during World War II. Using survivor interviews and historical footage, Resnais vividly portrays life inside the camps, helping viewers understand the immense suffering of that era. This powerful documentary is both a vital historical record and a reminder of the need to protect human rights today.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.2
  9. 9Arduino The DocumentaryMovie · 2011 · 38mThis documentary explores the open-source hardware project known as Arduino.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.0
  10. 10SickoMovie · 2007 · 123m · Documentary, Comedy, DramaThis documentary exposes the profit-driven flaws within the U.S. healthcare system, revealing how financial gain is prioritized over patient well-being. The core business model of American healthcare providers relies on denying coverage to maximize profits: "The more people you deny health insurance, the more money we make."IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4
  11. 11Capitalism: A Love StoryMovie · 2009 · 128m · Documentary, HistoryMichael Moore returns to his signature focus: how powerful corporations negatively affect the daily lives of Americans – and, by extension, people everywhere.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
  12. 12The House I Live InMovie · 2012 · 110m · DocumentaryFor the last four decades, the War on Drugs has led to 45 million arrests, turning the United States into the world's leading jailer and devastating communities both domestically and internationally. Despite this, drugs are now cheaper, purer, and more readily accessible than ever before. What went wrong?IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5
  13. 13The ImposterMovie · 2012 · 99m · Documentary, Mystery, CrimeIn 1994, a 13-year-old boy vanished from his home in San Antonio, Texas. Three and a half years later, he's discovered alive in a Spanish village, recounting a harrowing tale of kidnapping and torture. His family rejoices at his return. However, everything isn't as it appears.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  14. 14MeruMovie · 2015 · 89m · Adventure, DocumentaryMeru tells the gripping story of three top American climbers – Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin, and Renan Ozturk – determined to conquer a seemingly insurmountable peak.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  15. 15TickledMovie · 2016 · 92m · DocumentaryJournalist David Farrier discovers an odd online competition centered around tickling. His investigation uncovers strong opposition, but he persists in uncovering a story more unbelievable than reality itself.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  16. 16Pumping IronMovie · 1977 · 86m · DocumentaryIn 1975, the film follows bodybuilders as they undergo rigorous training to compete for the top titles of Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe. It centers on Arnold Schwarzenegger, a five-time champion, who fights to retain his title against strong rivals like Serge Nubret and Lou Ferrigno. This sports drama explores dedication, competition, and personal change, showcasing the impressive physical abilities and drive that define competitive bodybuilding in this period.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1
  17. 17Trinity and Beyond: The Atomic Bomb MovieMovie · 1995 · 92m · Documentary, History, War"Trinity and Beyond" explores the history of nuclear weapons development from 1945 to 1963. Using newly revealed, classified footage from several countries, this documentary offers a unique look at the atomic age. Narrated by William Shatner and featuring music by the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, the film presents an honest view of the nuclear arms race, its dangers, and the science behind it. Viewers see powerful test footage and confront the reality of humanity's destructive potential and capacity for advancement in a world transformed by atomic power.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2
  18. 18The CoveMovie · 2009 · 92m · Documentary"The Cove" recounts the remarkable true story of a dedicated team of filmmakers and freedivers who secretly entered a secluded cove in Japan to expose a disturbing and dangerous truth. Their startling findings revealed a much larger, more troubling reality.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.9
  19. 19Inside JobMovie · 2010 · 109m · Documentary, CrimeThis film reveals the startling reality behind the 2008 economic crisis. The worldwide financial collapse, costing over $20 trillion, led to millions losing their homes and jobs. By thoroughly researching and interviewing key financial figures, politicians, and journalists, Inside Job examines the growth of a reckless industry and exposes how damaging connections have poisoned politics, regulation, and academia.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.7
  20. 20KorengalMovie · 2014 · 84m · Documentary, WarKorengal continues the story of the same soldiers, in the same valley, under the same leadership, but offers a new perspective on their experiences during war.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6
  21. 21Cobain: Montage of HeckMovie · 2015 · 132m · Documentary, MusicThis is the only authorized film to offer a comprehensive look at Kurt Cobain. Award-nominated director Brett Morgen uses Cobain's personal materials – including art, music, previously unseen films, animation, and interviews with his family and friends – to create an intimate and innovative portrait of the iconic musician.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.6
  22. 22TPB AFK: The Pirate Bay - Away from KeyboardMovie · 2013 · 82m · Documentary, CrimeTPB AFK is a documentary about three computer enthusiasts who revolutionized media sharing with their website, The Pirate Bay. The film explores how Tiamo, a beer-loving hardware expert; Brokep, an environmentally conscious activist; and Anakata, a paranoid hacker with libertarian views, managed to provoke the White House into threatening trade sanctions against Sweden. The documentary examines the personal lives of these controversial figures, widely known for their defiance of Hollywood's copyright policies.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  23. 23Witness to JonestownMovie · 2008 · 89mThis film features rare footage from inside the People's Temple, offering a firsthand look at the devastating Jonestown Massacre of 1978 in Guyana. Interviews with survivors explore the events leading up to the tragedy and attempt to explain how 900 Americans would follow a single leader to their deaths.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.4
  24. 24Hot CoffeeMovie · 2011 · 85m · DocumentaryThe widely known "McDonald's coffee case" has been misrepresented by corporations seeking tort reform. *HOT COFFEE* exposes how large businesses, with media support, spread misinformation to protect their interests. The film follows four individuals whose lives were ruined by legal challenges, questioning Americans' beliefs about the fairness of the justice system.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
  25. 25Louis Theroux: America's Most Hated Family in CrisisMovie · 2011 · 60m · Documentary, TV MovieLouis Theroux revisits the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas, following up his 2007 documentary. He spends a week with the Phelps family, observing their provocative protests and anti-gay demonstrations. This time, however, four years later, the church shows signs of internal turmoil, marked by a notable number of family members leaving the organization.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
  26. 26OceansMovie · 2010 · 84m · Documentary, FamilyThis ecological drama/documentary follows a global journey. It blends elements of a thriller with a thoughtful look at the disappearing beauty of underwater ecosystems.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  27. 27Room 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.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1
  28. 28Searching for Sugar ManMovie · 2012 · 85m · Music, DocumentaryTwo South Africans travel to the United States to uncover the story of Rodriguez, a little-known rock musician from the 1970s who achieved a surprising level of fame there. They aim to find out what became of him.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9
  29. 29Child of RageMovie · 1992 · 94mA priest and his wife adopt a brother and sister. The girl, however, experiences violent outbursts of anger. They seek professional help to understand the cause of her behavior.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7
  30. 30Fantastic LiesMovie · 2016 · 103mIn Durham, North Carolina, a rape allegation dramatically impacted the reputations of three college athletes and their prestigious university. The Duke lacrosse players faced a difficult shift from being seen as exemplary students to being accused of a serious crime, sparking conflict on multiple levels.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.2
  31. 31Zeitgeist: AddendumMovie · 2008 · 123m · Documentary, History, WarZeitgeist: Addendum premiered at the 5th Annual Artivist Film Festival. Director Peter Joseph states that the world's ongoing problems with war, poverty, and corruption stem from a fundamental misunderstanding of human behavior. The film explores the root cause of societal instability and proposes a comprehensive, long-term solution.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.2
  32. 32POM Wonderful Presents: The Greatest Movie Ever SoldMovie · 2011 · 87m · Comedy, DocumentaryThis documentary explores the world of branding, advertising, and product placement. It is financed and produced with the support of brands, advertising agencies, and product placement companies.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4
  33. 33Blue Gold: World Water WarsMovie · 2008 · 90mIn the future, water becomes the new oil – the key to survival traded on the global market and a major source of political power. Corporations, wealthy investors, and governments engage in a ruthless struggle for control of this dwindling resource. This competition sparks widespread protests, legal battles, and even revolutions as people fight for their basic right to live.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0
  34. 34Jiro 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.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7
  35. 35SennaMovie · 2010 · 106m · Documentary"Senna" is a documentary that follows the life of Brazilian racing driver Ayrton Senna, examining his physical and personal journey as he pursued perfection in Formula 1. The film covers his career from his debut in 1984 to his tragic death ten years later, exploring how he became a legendary figure.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.1
  36. 36The BridgeMovie · 2006 · 93m · Documentary"The Bridge" is a challenging documentary film featuring footage of individuals choosing to end their lives by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge, a location with a high rate of suicides. The film includes interviews with family members and friends of those who died, offering insights into their lives and struggles with mental health.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  37. 37RestrepoMovie · 2010 · 93m · War, DocumentaryDirectors Hetherington and Junger spent a year with the 2nd Battalion of the U.S. Army in a dangerous valley in Afghanistan. The documentary offers insight into the unit's approach to overcoming the Taliban, focusing on their dedication, intense combat, and the bonds of friendship forged within the group.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  38. 38Bowling for ColumbineMovie · 2002 · 120m · Documentary, DramaThis film isn't about gun control. It explores the underlying anxieties of the United States and the 280 million Americans who can legally own a Uzi. Examining Columbine High School security footage, the home of NRA President Charlton Heston, a young man creating napalm from a guide book, and the tragic murder of a six-year-old by another six-year-old, "Bowling for Columbine" journeys across America, examining its history to understand why the pursuit of happiness is so intertwined with violence.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5
  39. 39The 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
  40. 40Super Size MeMovie · 2004 · 100m · DocumentaryFor 30 days, Morgan Spurlock eats nothing but McDonald's – three meals a day, no exercise – to investigate the link between fast food and America's rising rates of obesity. He undergoes regular medical check-ups with three doctors, documenting his weight changes throughout the experiment, ultimately reaching a disturbing conclusion.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7
  41. 41How to Make Money Selling DrugsMovie · 2012 · 96m · DocumentaryThis film presents ten straightforward steps for making money in the drug trade. It includes interviews with drug dealers, prison staff, and those who lobby for stricter drug laws, presenting their perspectives on the issue.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  42. 42Cocaine CowboysMovie · 2006 · 118m · DocumentaryDuring the 1980s, powerful Colombian drug lords brought a new level of violence to Miami, reminiscent of Chicago during Prohibition, and transformed the city. "Cocaine Cowboys" recounts the true story of Miami's rise to become the nation's center for drug trafficking, murder, and money, as revealed by those directly involved.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3
  43. 43BullyMovie · 2011 · 92m · Documentary, DramaEach year, more than 5 million American children experience bullying – at school, online, on the bus, at home, through their cell phones, and in their communities. This film, *The Bully Project*, explores how bullying affects us all, whether as victims, those who bully, or bystanders. It argues that the world we experience as adults is shaped by childhood experiences. The film begins on the first day of school, a day filled with anxiety for the millions of children who will be bullied in the United States this year. As school buses carry students across the country, *The Bully Project* offers a look into the challenges and uncertainties of growing up.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  44. 44Touching 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.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6
  45. 45Step Into LiquidMovie · 2003 · 88m · Documentary, DramaThis documentary profiles surfers and their hidden surf locations worldwide. It offers a unique and compelling experience, unlike anything else.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  46. 46CitizenfourMovie · 2014 · 113m · DocumentaryIn June 2013, filmmaker Laura Poitras and journalist Glenn Greenwald traveled to Hong Kong to meet Edward Snowden. Poitras documented their meetings with her camera.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7
  47. 47EarthMovie · 2007 · 90m · DocumentaryEARTH, from Disneynature, follows the journeys of three animal families: polar bears, elephants, and humpback whales. It's an epic adventure showcasing the courage and magnificence of these creatures as they navigate life across the planet.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6
  48. 48The Pixar StoryMovie · 2007 · 87m · DocumentaryThis film explores the early years of Pixar Animation Studios, charting its rise from the breakthrough success of "Toy Story" to becoming a leading force in animation. It details Pixar’s commitment to fostering talent, the development of their East Bay campus, and their evolving partnership with Disney. The movie highlights the company's impressive early run of eight critically acclaimed films. The influence of John Lasseter, Ed Catmull, and Steve Jobs is examined, alongside the shift from traditional two-dimensional animation to the emergence of three-dimensional animation. The film emphasizes the equal importance of dedication and innovation in Pixar’s early achievements.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6
  49. 49The 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
  50. 50ReligulousMovie · 2008 · 101m · Documentary, ComedyComedian Bill Maher engages in provocative conversations about religion with people who hold strong beliefs. He journeys globally to explore the core principles of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, questioning topics like homosexuality, evidence for Christ's life, Jewish religious observances, and the threat of violent extremism within some Muslim communities.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0
  51. 51Where 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
  52. 52Fat, Sick & Nearly DeadMovie · 2010 · 97m · DocumentaryJoe Cross, weighing 100 pounds more than he should, is battling a severe autoimmune disease while taking steroids. He feels hopeless, seeing himself as a 310-pound man with a grim future. FAT, SICK & NEARLY DEAD is an inspiring film following Joe's journey to reclaim his health.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.7
  53. 53Capturing the FriedmansMovie · 2003 · 107m · Documentary, CrimeThis Oscar-nominated documentary examines the devastating story of a middle-class American family fractured by accusations of child sexual abuse against the father, Arnold, and son, Jesse. Director Jarecki interviews individuals connected to the case, exploring the question of whether their trials were just, given their claims of innocence and the lack of concrete evidence.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  54. 54AIBOU: Tokyo Detective DuoMovie · 2010 · 107m · DocumentaryAcross America, rural landowners are suddenly offered lucrative deals from energy companies to lease their land. The companies are eager to tap into a vast natural gas supply, often called the "Saudi Arabia of natural gas." Using a new hydraulic drilling technique called "fracking," developed by Halliburton, America is poised to become a major energy producer.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  55. 55Hail Satan?Movie · 2019 · 91m · DocumentaryThis is the story of The Satanic Temple, a controversial group that blends religious expression with political activism to challenge core aspects of American society.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  56. 56Chasing IceMovie · 2012 · 74m · DocumentaryNational Geographic photographer James Balog sought to capture climate change with his camera, focusing on ice. His subsequent cover story on glaciers became the magazine's most popular in the past five years. This project, however, was just the start of a much larger, long-term undertaking of epic scope.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5
  57. 57ZeitgeistMovie · 2007 · 118m · Documentary, HistoryThis documentary explores various historical and contemporary conspiracy theories. It examines alleged connections between Christianity, the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and the Federal Reserve.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.0
  58. 58Enron: The Smartest Guys in the RoomMovie · 2005 · 110m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines the Enron corporation, detailing its flawed and unethical business methods and the chain of events that ultimately caused its collapse.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1
  59. 59Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His FatherMovie · 2008 · 94m · Documentary, CrimeIn 2001, medical resident Andrew Bagby is murdered shortly after ending his relationship with his girlfriend. Later, when she reveals she is pregnant, Andrew’s close friend Kurt Kuenne creates this film as a gift for the child.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.1
  60. 60Man on WireMovie · 2008 · 94m · DocumentaryIn 1974, French high-wire artist Philippe Petit performed an illegal walk between the New York World Trade Center towers, then the tallest buildings in the world. He spent nearly an hour on a wire strung 1,350 feet above the city streets before being arrested. This documentary recounts Petit's extraordinary feat.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  61. 61The 11th HourMovie · 2007 · 95m · Documentary, Drama, CrimeThis film examines the current condition of the Earth's environment and explores both innovative and practical approaches to healing our planet's ecosystems. It features conversations with leading experts from around the world, including Mikhail Gorbachev, Stephen Hawking, and former CIA Director R. James Woolsey.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7
  62. 62Lake of FireMovie · 2006 · 152m · DocumentaryThis film examines the evolution of the abortion rights debate in the United States over the past 15 years.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.0
  63. 63Jesus CampMovie · 2006 · 84m · DocumentaryJesus Camp follows a Christian summer camp where children are taught to develop their spiritual abilities and prepare to "take back America for Christ." The film offers an unprecedented glimpse into this rigorous training environment, where young, devout Christians are recruited to become involved in the nation's political landscape.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0
  64. 64Fahrenheit 9/11Movie · 2004 · 123m · DocumentaryThis film presents Michael Moore's perspective on the Bush administration's alleged exploitation of the 9/11 attacks to promote its plans for wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1
  65. 65An Inconvenient TruthMovie · 2006 · 100m · DocumentaryThis documentary chronicles Al Gore's efforts to bring global warming to international attention. It details his campaign to establish the issue as a globally recognized problem.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0
  66. 66Grizzly 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
  67. 67Louis Theroux: The Ultra ZionistsMovie · 2011 · 60m · Documentary, TV MovieLouis Theroux immerses himself in a tight-knit community of ultra-nationalist Jewish settlers. He finds a group who believe it's their religious and political duty to settle in the West Bank's most sensitive locations, particularly those with biblical significance. As he spends time with them, Louis connects with those at the forefront of this extreme movement, finding them both welcoming and deeply unsettling.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7