994 Essential History Documentary Films
993 titles
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Medieval FightbookMovie · 2010 · 45mA detailed examination of a centuries-old manuscript reveals the combat strategies and tools employed by a master fighter over 500 years ago.IMDb 7.2TMDB 10.0 - 2
The Murder of Gabby Petito: Truth, Lies and Social MediaMovie · 2021 · 85m · Documentary, Crime, HistoryThe film follows Gabby, a contemporary woman whose life is shaped by her online presence. We see Gabby's journey as she becomes involved in social media detective work that helps solve the story's main mystery. The movie examines digital identity, privacy, and how social media affects everyday life, all viewed through Gabby's experiences. It shows how the online world can both clarify and confuse our perceptions of ourselves and others.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.6 - 3
La banlieue, c’est le paradisMovie · 2025 · 89mDuring the 1960s, France's suburbs were envisioned as welcoming places for immigrants from rural France, Portugal, Spain, North Africa, and Africa, intended to aid the country's post-war recovery. These large housing developments represented this ideal, providing essential amenities like comfort, heating, and electricity. However, by the 1980s, this vision crumbled under the weight of economic hardship, unemployment, poverty, crime, racism, and police brutality. Mohamed Bouhafsi recounts the story of a dream that ultimately failed to materialize.TMDB 6.3 - 4
La SinglaMovie · 2023 · 95mIn the 1960s, Antonia Singla, a young Spanish flamenco dancer, became renowned for her intensely passionate performances. Having lost her hearing as a child, La Singla achieved fame through her powerful presence, conveyed by her strong gaze and dynamic movements. But at the peak of her career, she vanished and faded from public memory. Years later, a young woman in Seville discovers La Singla’s story, prompting a deeper exploration. Using research, interviews, and archival footage, she begins to reconstruct the legend of La Singla. Through the artistry of her performances and the poignancy of her life, La Singla's legacy as one of flamenco's greatest dancers is remembered and honored.IMDb 7.2TMDB 9.0 - 5
Titanic: 20 Years Later with James CameronMovie · 2017 · 47m · Documentary, History, TV MovieTo mark the 20th anniversary of the film "Titanic," James Cameron revisits the story of the tragedy.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 6
Hollywood in the Atomic Age: Monsters! Martians! Mad Scientists!Movie · 2021 · 118mThis is a detailed account of the horror and science fiction movies that defined Hollywood in the 1950s, as revealed by the filmmakers who created them.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.7 - 7
Black WoodstockMovie · 1969 · 120mThe Harlem Cultural Festival, dubbed "Black Woodstock," was a series of music concerts held in Harlem, New York City during the summer of 1969. The festival celebrated African American music and culture while promoting black pride and political expression. Concerts were held weekly on Sundays at 3 PM in Harlem's Mount Morris Park, running from June 29th to August 24th, 1969. The event followed the Watts Riots and the assassinations of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King.TMDB 8.0 - 8
Kim Dae Jung Must Not DieMovie · 2024 · 126mKim Dae Jung navigated turbulent times, always with the people in mind. A young businessman, he saw the suffering caused by rigid ideologies and chose a path in politics to build a nation founded on popular participation and democracy. This decision meant sacrificing a secure future and facing immense hardship: kidnapping, death threats, imprisonment, and a death sentence that deeply affected him. Even facing execution, Kim remained steadfast: "Democracy will be restored. I believe in it." The life of President Kim Dae-jung, who endured imprisonment, four parliamentary elections, and three failed presidential bids, is a defining story in modern South Korea.IMDb 2.3TMDB 8.2 - 9
The Great Martian War 1913–1917Movie · 2013 · 90mThis documentary-drama chronicles the Martian War of 1913–1917. In the early 20th century, Europe braced for a major conflict between its powers. However, in 1913, an object crashed into the forests of southwestern Germany, leading to the annihilation of the investigating troops. Martian war machines then advanced across Western Europe, prompting European nations to unite against them. Drawing inspiration from H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds" and the history of World War I, this dramatization offers a documentary-style account of the unfolding events and their lasting impact on our world. It includes numerous references to real historical occurrences: mass attacks and defeats on the Western Front, the Christmas truce, the Angel of Mons, America's initial isolationism and eventual involvement, the devastating Spanish flu pandemic, and much more.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3 - 10
ValdensesMovie · 2015 · 78mThe Waldenses, a medieval religious group considered heretical, are also the earliest form of Protestant church. This community, with roots stretching back 850 years, has recently become a voice challenging the Vatican on modern issues like same-sex marriage, euthanasia, and abortion. - 11
Fists of Freedom: The Story of the '68 Summer GamesMovie · 1999 · 59mFists of Freedom looks back at a defining moment of the 20th century: the powerful "Black Power" protest by American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos during the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. The film uses rare footage, archival photographs, and interviews with people who lived through that time to revisit this important event in American history.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 12
Political CinemaMovie · 2025This short film uses sudden changes in music to connect historical political images and examine how propaganda uses film. It explores complicated ideas through intense visual and auditory experiences, drawing from examples like the Brazilian military dictatorship and the Chinese revolution.TMDB 10.0 - 13
Lilith Fair: Building a MysteryMovie · 2025 · 117m · Documentary, MusicThis film offers a look at the making of Sarah McLachlan's renowned music festival for women, featuring interviews with artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Erykah Badu, Olivia Rodrigo, and Emmylou Harris.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.5 - 14
Valley UprisingMovie · 2014 · 99m · Adventure, Documentary, HistoryIn the secluded campgrounds of Yosemite Valley, a community of climbers developed a rebellious lifestyle centered on resourcefulness and lively gatherings, often at odds with the National Park Service's traditional approach. Meanwhile, climbers have consistently challenged the boundaries of the sport on Yosemite's iconic cliffs, each generation striving for excellence. "Valley Uprising" is a compelling story about this enduring climbing tradition in Yosemite National Park: fifty years of pushing physical limits and challenging regulations.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.7 - 15
Our GodfatherMovie · 2019 · 93m · Documentary, HistoryThis is the story of Tommaso Buscetta (1928-2000), a powerful Sicilian Mafia boss who, beginning in 1984, exposed the organization's most closely guarded secrets. His testimony was crucial in the trial held in Palermo between 1986 and 1987, leading to the conviction of hundreds of mafiosi.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 16
I Wish I KnewMovie · 2010 · 125mThis film explores the lives and histories of the people of Shanghai, set against a backdrop of evolving architecture from the mid-1800s, when the city opened to international trade, to the present day.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 17
Sacré Cœur : Son règne n'a pas de finMovie · 2025IMDb 5.7TMDB 8.7 - 18
The Last Man on the MoonMovie · 2016 · 95m · Documentary, HistoryThe 1960s were a pivotal era for America, marked by ambitious pursuits like NASA's space program and the historic moon landing. But astronauts like Eugene Cernan were essential to that journey. A skilled test pilot who embraced risk, he was selected with 14 others for a highly selective program that forged deep bonds of friendship and rivalry. Cernan became one of only three astronauts to walk on the moon twice, his second mission marking NASA's final lunar endeavor. Reflecting on his eight years in Houston, the film reveals an extraordinary life of love and loss. Director Mark Craig presents a subtly epic biography, blending firsthand accounts from surviving astronauts with archival footage and stunning images of the moon.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.6 - 19
Breakpoint: A Counter History of ProgressMovie · 2019 · 99mThis film chronicles the last two centuries of the Anthropocene, the Age of Man. It explores how human progress has occurred rapidly through conflict and the pursuit of power by a select few politicians and industrialists. Their actions have often harmed the majority, impoverished the vulnerable, and relentlessly depleted the Earth's resources.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 20
First Invasion: The War of 1812Movie · 2004 · 46mFirst Invasion: The War of 1812, a 2004 History Channel documentary, depicts a young United States facing potential destruction in its conflict with the powerful British Empire. While some critics argue the film presents an overly favorable view of the American perspective and overlooks important aspects of the war, others commend its engaging portrayal of this often-overlooked period in history.IMDb 7.3 - 21
Teatro Amazonas: The Art of Sound and NatureMovie · 2022 · 53mBuilt in the heart of the Amazon rainforest between 1884 and 1896, the Teatro Amazonas in Manaus reflects Brazil's cultural, social, and political landscape. Its construction relied on the exploitation of local indigenous people.IMDb 6.9TMDB 8.0 - 22
Dinosaur WarsMovie · 2011 · 54mDinosaur Wars tells the story of O.C. Marsh and Edward Cope, two gifted scientists whose professional rivalry transformed into a deeply personal conflict. Marsh and Cope together discovered over 142 new dinosaur species and brought these creatures to life for the public, but their accomplishments were overshadowed by twenty years of intense competition, secret actions, and deliberate undermining.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.0 - 23
Soundtrack to a Coup d'EtatMovie · 2024 · 150m · Documentary, History, MusicThe story powerfully connects jazz music and the fight for independence during the Cold War. It focuses on a particularly fraught moment in history.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 24
Be Natural: The Untold Story of Alice Guy-BlachéMovie · 2018 · 103m · Documentary, HistoryThis is the remarkable story of Alice Guy-Blaché (1873–1968), a groundbreaking French filmmaker who was a pioneer in the early days of cinema. She was the first person to create a narrative fiction film and produced hundreds of movies throughout her career, yet her contributions have long been overlooked. Now, finally, she is being recognized.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2 - 25
Camp Confidential: America's Secret NazisMovie · 2021 · 34m · Documentary, Animation, HistoryCamp Confidential: America's Secret Nazis is a documentary short with animation, recounting the story of a highly classified POW camp hidden for over 50 years. During World War II, a group of young Jewish refugees are tasked with guarding this top-secret camp near Washington D.C. They soon discover their prisoners are not ordinary Nazis, but Hitler's leading scientists. What begins as an intelligence gathering mission takes a shocking turn when the Jewish soldiers are assigned a new task – one that challenges their morals and reveals a dark secret from America's history.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 26
Babylon UnveiledMovie · 2014IMDb 7.4TMDB 8.0 - 27
EvitaMovie · 2009 · 74mEva Perón, a leading voice for women's rights and social justice, was widely regarded as the most influential woman of her era. She and her husband, Domingo Perón, the President of Argentina, formed a legendary partnership.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 28
1944: Should We Bomb Auschwitz?Movie · 2019 · 60mIn 1944, two prisoners unexpectedly escaped from Auschwitz. Their accounts revealed the horrors of the Holocaust, presenting a profound ethical challenge for the world.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.5 - 29
SpitfireMovie · 2018 · 99mThis documentary explores the people and aircraft that were crucial to Allied victory in World War II. Using firsthand accounts from those who lived through it, the film examines the development of iconic planes like the Spitfire and Hurricane, and their encounters with the German Messerschmitt 109 during the rapid advancements in aviation of the pre-war years. It also details the experiences of the pilots who fought in the skies over Europe, Africa, and Asia.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 30
Alive and KickingMovie · 2017 · 88m"Alive and Kicking" offers a close look at today's swing dance scene, while also exploring contemporary challenges in American life.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 31
Death in the Bunker: The True Story of Hitler's DownfallMovie · 2004 · 82mIn the final ten days of World War II, Adolf Hitler retreated to a bunker beneath the Reich Chancellery. Facing the reality of defeat, the dictator took his own life on April 30, 1945, within this underground complex. *Death in the Bunker* offers an insightful examination of Hitler's last decisions leading up to his suicide, featuring exclusive interviews with those closest to him and extensive archival footage.IMDb 7.7TMDB 8.0 - 32
Going MedievalMovie · 2012In this two-hour H2 special, historian and weapons expert Mike Loades explores the Middle Ages, from the 5th to the 15th centuries. He separates historical fact from popular myths, revealing the realities of life during this period. Mike covers everything from daily living and work to warfare, including practical details like maintaining a knight's armor with a mixture of sand, vinegar, and urine. Going Medieval offers an expert look at what it was really like to live in the Middle Ages.IMDb 8.1TMDB 10.0 - 33
Cave of Forgotten DreamsMovie · 2010 · 90m · DocumentaryFilmmaker Werner Herzog receives rare permission to film within the Chauvet caves of southern France. His camera documents the world's oldest known cave paintings, offering a breathtaking look at early human artistry in their original environment.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 34
ThunderboltMovie · 1947 · 44mThis documentary chronicles the U.S. Air Force's P-47 Thunderbolt bomber's crucial part in the Italian Campaign of World War II.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.1 - 35
When We Went MAD!Movie · 2025 · 107mThis documentary explores the enduring impact of MAD Magazine, a cultural phenomenon. It features interviews with people who have long admired the magazine, including its famous readers, alongside the artists, writers, and editors who created it – affectionately called "The Usual Gang of Idiots."IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.0 - 36
Laissez-faireMovie · 2015 · 80mThis film explores the history of neoliberalism, examining its origins and how this ideology continues to shape governmental decisions and everyday life today.IMDb 8.6TMDB 10.0 - 37
Secrets of the Celtic GraveMovie · 2021Archaeologists in the United Kingdom have unearthed a strange Iron Age burial site. They believe the discovery could shed light on the violent events that preceded the Roman conquest of Britain.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 38
Imaginary Witness: Hollywood and the HolocaustMovie · 2004 · 92mDaniel Anker's 90-minute documentary explores the intricate and often conflicting history of Hollywood's dealings with Nazi Germany and the Holocaust over the past six decades. The film examines fundamental questions about the role of cinema in society. While not comprehensive, Anker’s work provides a valuable and stimulating introduction to this complex topic.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.5 - 39
Red White Black & BlueMovie · 2006 · 86mIn June 1942, during a secret conflict that resulted in thousands of casualties and remained hidden from the American public, the Japanese army invaded Alaska. Sixty years later, two veterans undertake a deeply emotional journey back to the battlefield where they fought.TMDB 7.0 - 40
Unsinkable: Japan's Lost BattleshipMovie · 2020 · 55mIn October 1944, the largest naval battle in history takes place in the Philippines. The Japanese navy hopes to defeat the United States and change the course of World War II. However, their powerful, secret battleship Musashi is sunk in the battle.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.7 - 41
Exorcismo: The Transgressive Legacy of Clasificada “S”Movie · 2024 · 119mSpain, 1975. Following Franco's death, the country anticipates a new era of freedom for filmmakers. Two years of eased censorship lead to its complete removal in 1977, with the introduction of an "S" rating designed to warn audiences about potentially offensive content.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.5 - 42
Hannah: Buddhism's Untold JourneyMovie · 2014 · 90m"Hannah" chronicles the life of Hannah Nydahl, a key figure in introducing Tibetan Buddhism to the West. Starting with her idealistic beginnings in 1960s Copenhagen, Hannah and her husband Ole traveled the hippie trail to Nepal, where they became among the first Western students of the 16th Karmapa, the first consciously reincarnated lama of Tibet. Hannah later served as an assistant and translator for prominent Tibetan lamas, acting as a vital link between Eastern and Western Buddhist traditions.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 43
Building Burma's Death Railway: Moving Half the MountainMovie · 2014 · 59mMoving Half The Mountain tells the powerful true stories of survivors from a horrific event during World War II: the brutal exploitation of prisoners of war by the Japanese. Forced into labor, these men were compelled to build a railway connecting Thailand and Burma. Now in their later years, they vividly recall the experiences.IMDb 7.3 - 44
TrainsMovie · 2025 · 80mThe film begins with a quote from Franz Kafka: “There is plenty of hope. An infinite amount of hope. But not for us.” This phrase sets the tone for the found footage documentary, which offers a glimpse into the lives of people in 20th century Europe. It portrays their hopes, desires, dramas, and tragedies, creating a collective picture of an era.IMDb 7.5 - 45
WWII in 3DMovie · 2012 · 43mFor the first time, powerful moments from World War II captured in 3D are revealed. These stereographs, hidden in archives and private collections for decades, offer a unique perspective on the war. The collection includes Allied reconnaissance photos, documenting the rise and fall of the Third Reich, alongside secret images taken by a civilian in occupied France. *WWII in 3D* also features a rare Nazi-made 3D motion picture from 1943, creating a fully immersive three-dimensional view of history's most devastating conflict.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2 - 46
King Leopold's GhostMovie · 2006 · 102mThe Congo, at the heart of Africa, experienced a history marked by extreme brutality. King Leopold II of Belgium transformed the country into his personal possession between 1885 and 1908, exploiting its resources and inflicting immense suffering on its people. This resulted in countless victims and a legacy of crime and horror that is often overlooked. The film explores the lasting impact of this forgotten history on the Congo today.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.6 - 47
The Last DaysMovie · 1998 · 87m · Documentary, HistoryFive Hungarian Jews recount their life stories, looking back at the remarkable events that shaped them before they became American citizens. This moving film follows their paths from a peaceful life before March 1944 to the brutal reality of Nazi concentration camps during World War II. The narratives include those of a historian, a survivor of the Sonderkommando, a doctor who was compelled to conduct experiments on Auschwitz inmates, and the American soldiers who helped liberate Hungary from the Nazis in April 1945. Returning to their childhood homes more than 50 years later, they grapple with their history, offering a deeply personal look at survival, loss, and the bonds of humanity in the face of unimaginable hardship.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 48
Nostradamus: 2012Movie · 2009 · 120mThis documentary explores the enigmatic quatrains attributed to Nostradamus.IMDb 4.7TMDB 5.5 - 49
The Hitler YouthMovie · 1999 · 60m"Hitler Youth" documents Adolf Hitler's creation of the Hitler Youth, an organization of young, Aryan men intended to dominate the world through fear, intimidation, and violence. Using disturbing historical footage, the documentary traces the Hitler Youth's growth from a small group of 13,000 members to 10 million within fifteen years, and its eventual demise after Hitler's death in 1945.IMDb 6.8TMDB 8.0 - 50
Killer, Trader and Psychopath: The America of Bret Easton EllisMovie · 2021 · 54mPublished in 1991, Bret Easton Ellis's *American Psycho* sparked intense debate among critics and readers. The novel offers a deeply disturbing look into the mind of Patrick Bateman, a wealthy Wall Street executive consumed by brand names, trivialities, pop culture, and violent acts.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.1 - 51
D-Day: Normandy 1944Movie · 2014 · 40mOn June 6, 1944, the largest Allied operation of World War II commenced in Normandy, France. From late 1943 to August 1944, this region became pivotal globally, yet the specifics of why and how remain largely unknown. "D-Day: Normandy 1944" uses animation, CGI, and live-action footage to present this monumental event on the big screen for the first time. Aimed at audiences of all ages, including new generations, the film offers a fresh perspective on how this landing reshaped the world. It explores history, military strategy, science, technology, and human values, providing education and broad appeal. Narrated by Tom Brokaw, "D-Day: Normandy 1944" honors those who sacrificed for freedom—a testament to remembrance and gratitude.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 52
The CongressMovie · 1989 · 89mFor two centuries, the U.S. Congress has been a vital yet often misunderstood part of American life. Ken Burns offers a detailed, thoughtful, and frequently moving look at the history and potential of this distinctive institution. The acclaimed film uses historical photographs and newsreels alongside compelling contemporary footage and interviews with David Broder, Alistair Cooke, Cokie Roberts, Charles McDowell, and others. It chronicles the people, events, and debates that have shaped the first 200 years of Congress and, consequently, the nation itself.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.8 - 53
The Conquest of EverestMovie · 1953 · 78mThis documentary chronicles the historic first ascent of Mount Everest. In 1953, New Zealander Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa companion Tenzing Norgay successfully reach the summit of the world's highest peak.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 54
Alone in the WildernessMovie · 2004 · 57m · Documentary, HistoryIn 1967, Dick Proenneke, at 50, retired to build a cabin in the remote wilderness of what is now Lake Clark National Park, Alaska. Using color footage he filmed himself, the documentary follows his journey to this isolated location and his solitary construction of a log cabin. It details his first year living there, documenting his daily life and the changing seasons as he worked to survive independently in the Alaskan wilderness.IMDb 8.6TMDB 7.9 - 55
The Lost Colony of Roanoke: New EvidenceMovie · 2022 · 84mIn 1587, over 100 English colonists arrive on Roanoke Island and disappear without a trace, a puzzle that has puzzled historians for centuries. Now, using cutting-edge forensic archaeology, experts are investigating the real story behind America’s oldest and most debated mystery.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0 - 56
Sommer '39Movie · 2009 · 90mSummer 1939. Life is idyllic, people reveling in good weather, largely oblivious to the looming political tensions and dire forecasts gripping Europe. The film offers glimpses into ordinary lives on the cusp of dramatic upheaval.IMDb 7.0TMDB 9.0 - 57Mistr třeboňskýMovie · 1950This documentary explores the world of Gothic painting and the artists who shaped it.
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The World's Biggest Murder Trial: NurembergMovie · 2020 · 90mThis film recounts the powerful story of the Nuremberg Trials, utilizing over a thousand archival clips, including newly digitized courtroom footage. Twenty-one Nazi leaders were prosecuted for crimes that resulted in the deaths of millions of innocent people.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0 - 59
Flying SupersonicMovie · 2018The Concorde, a symbol of luxury and speed, quickly became a legend when it soared through the skies. But its success was built on groundbreaking science and complex political maneuvering. Fifteen years after it ceased operations, this documentary explores the historic global competition to create the world's first supersonic passenger plane. Featuring firsthand accounts from the designers, builders, and pilots who worked on Concorde in both France and Britain, the film reveals the story of its creation.IMDb 7.0TMDB 8.0 - 60
Claude Chabrol, the MaverickMovie · 2019 · 57mThis is a look at the life and films of Claude Chabrol (1930-2010), a filmmaker who embraced pleasure and intellectual curiosity with equal fervor. He was a discreet rebel, a passionate lover of life.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2 - 61
Lucy Worsley's Christmas Carol OdysseyMovie · 2019 · 58mLucy Worsley explores the unexpected histories behind popular Christmas carols. She uncovers how these familiar songs connect to everything from ancient pagan traditions and religious disputes to French dances and the experiences of soldiers in the First World War, revealing how they mirror our past.IMDb 7.4TMDB 8.3 - 62The Missing GodsMovie · 2020Eleven thousand years ago, a mysterious event took place. Across the globe, as humans began to develop civilization, groups of god-like figures and wise individuals appeared. Ancient peoples called them human-like but not quite human: the Followers of Horus, the People of the Serpent, the Sapti Rshi, and many others – the Offiusa, the Lookers, the Watchers, the Hayhuaipanti, the Urukehu, and the Anu-naga. Who were these beings? Were they related? And have we overlooked evidence of this parallel civilization in places like Lapukije, Te Petaka, Ta Neterw, iw titi, and the Birthplace of the Gods academy, while focusing on Atlantis and Lemuria? Join author Freddy Silva on a journey to some of Earth's oldest sites, including Gobekli Tepe, the Nile Valley, Yucatan, Lake Titicaca, Easter Island, and New Zealand.
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The BubbleMovie · 2018 · 82mThis film examines the real reasons behind the Great Recession of the 2010s. Leading economists, investors, and business experts analyze the potential consequences if we fail to learn from past errors. It questions whether the economy is truly recovering or if we are on the verge of another unsustainable bubble.IMDb 8.8TMDB 5.5 - 64
Getting Away with Murder(s)Movie · 2021 · 175m · Documentary, HistoryThis documentary examines the disturbing reality of the widespread involvement in the murders of 11 million people during World War II, across 22 nations. Despite knowing the locations of many perpetrators, from Germany to the USA, the Allied powers, following The London Agreement of 1945, only prosecuted a small number.
The film explores why these nations failed to bring most of the perpetrators to justice, leaving their crimes largely unpunished. Through interviews with historians and archival footage, it reveals the complex political pressures, diplomatic considerations, and difficulties in confronting such immense tragedy that shaped this outcome. The film prompts viewers to consider the moral implications of a justice system struggling to address unprecedented human suffering.IMDb 8.0TMDB 10.0 - 65
The Universe of the ManasMovie · 1995 · 74mKyrgyz director Melis Ubukeyev spent years trying to make a grand film adaptation of the Kyrgyz national epic, 'Manas,' a project that ultimately wasn't completed. But his work left a lasting legacy. He previously made films in 1962 and 1988 about Manasçı, the storytellers who have kept the epic alive through oral tradition. In 1995, for the 1,000th anniversary of 'Manas,' he created a captivating essay film. It tells the epic's vast story using stunning visuals and elaborate costumes, while also exploring Kyrgyz history and identity. Recently restored by Kyrgyzfilm and available in 4K on YouTube, the film, once rare, is now accessible to a wider audience.IMDb 7.9 - 66
Tasmanian Devil: The Fast and Furious Life of Errol FlynnMovie · 2007 · 59mThis is the story of Errol Flynn, the Tasmanian-born actor whose brief but dazzling life was defined by scandal, adventure, romance, and extravagance – all captured by the cameras, both on and off screen. He captivated audiences in movies and dominated the newsreels and gossip columns. Tragically, he died of drug and alcohol-related causes at just 50, yet his legend endures. But beneath the surface of the swashbuckling hero lies a lesser-known side: Flynn's ambitions as a writer and journalist, his work on documentary films, and his deep interest in the Spanish Civil War and Fidel Castro's Cuba.IMDb 7.2TMDB 9.0 - 67
Rocky IV: The American PunchMovie · 2014Rocky IV holds double significance: it represents both an American boxer's triumph over a Soviet one, and the perceived triumph of free-market principles over fading socialist ideals. The film is viewed as an icon by some, while others dismiss it. A defining image of the 1980s, its cultural impact and iconic characters make it ripe for an engaging look at popular culture.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 68
Joan of Arc: God's WarriorMovie · 2015 · 60mDr. Helen Castor examines the life and death of Joan of Arc, an exceptional woman who defied expectations by becoming a warrior and leader in a time when women were not permitted to fight. Driven by her faith, Joan’s story resonates deeply today, highlighting the potent force of belief. Since her death, she has become a symbol for diverse groups, from across the political and religious spectrum. This film seeks to uncover the true Joan – the experiences of a young peasant girl who accomplished the seemingly impossible. Through a remarkable manuscript containing her trial testimony, Dr. Castor reconstructs Joan’s story, revealing the humanity of this iconic figure within her historical context.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 69
My Enemy's EnemyMovie · 2007 · 87mThis film presents an alternate history where fascist ideology won the war. It tells the story of Klaus Barbie, a Nazi torturer who later worked as an American spy and a tool for repressive right-wing governments. Barbie's life reflects the hidden connections between "Western" governments and fascism, offering a new perspective on the world and its leaders.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 70
Film: The Living Record of Our MemoryMovie · 2022 · 120mHow can we still see films shot over 125 years ago? In our digital world, preserving moving images seems natural, yet much of cinema and historical footage has disappeared. Archivists, technicians, and filmmakers worldwide explain what it means to preserve audiovisual heritage and why it’s so vital. This documentary honors these dedicated professionals and their essential work.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.1 - 71
American RoyaltyMovie · 2022The American Royalty docuseries offers a detailed look at the Miss America Pageant. It explores the pageant's century-long history, its impact, the debates surrounding it, and how it has changed over time.IMDb 9.0 - 72
My Favorite WarMovie · 2020 · 82mIn Soviet-occupied Latvia during the Cold War, young Ilze Burkovska is captivated by stories of World War II. Dreaming of becoming a filmmaker, she navigates a world defined by totalitarian control and the ever-present threat of conflict.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 73
Advance Democracy!Movie · 1938 · 17mA wife inspires her working-class husband to focus on issues beyond his usual obsession with betting on football. - 74
Ardisson, l'Homme en Noir : l'hommageMovie · 2025 · Documentary, HistoryThis program celebrates the career of Thierry Ardisson, a highly creative, provocative, and knowledgeable host and producer. It looks back at his work over more than 40 years, from "Tout le monde en parle" to "Salut les Terriens!" and "Lunettes noires pour nuits blanches," featuring memorable interviews, tributes, and archival footage. Many guests will appear to share their memories and stories about him. Thierry Ardisson, known as "the man in black," significantly impacted French television and defined an era. The program airs on all TV5 Monde channels and TV5 Québec/Canada. - 75
Elie Wiesel Goes HomeMovie · 1997 · 108mThis documentary follows the teenage years of Elie Wiesel and the history of his suffering. At fifteen, Eliezer's life was irrevocably changed by Fascism. Fifty years later, he returns to his birthplace, Sighetu Marmatiei, to confront the difficult process of remembering. The film explores whether the horrors he experienced can ever be adequately expressed. Can Auschwitz be truly conveyed through language, or does the experience transcend words and stories?IMDb 7.4 - 76
Lotta continuaMovie · 2022TMDB 6.5 - 77
Sol da BahiaMovie · 2019 · 73m - 78
Uma Thurman: Hollywood's Silent WarriorMovie · 2024 · 52mThis film explores the life of American actress Uma Thurman, known for her collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino and as a prominent advocate for those who have experienced abuse at the hands of producer Harvey Weinstein.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4 - 79
Bomber BoysMovie · 2012 · 90mColin and Ewan McGregor, continuing their documentary work, present a film about Bomber Command, a little-known aspect of World War II. The film centers on the airmen who fought and died over occupied Europe, highlighting acts of bravery and remarkable teamwork. Colin learns to fly the Lancaster bomber, the key aircraft of the campaign. However, the film also explores a controversy that has persisted for nearly 70 years. Spanning six years of wartime operations, it details the hurdles overcome as the Royal Air Force built and deployed Bomber Command into a powerful fighting force.IMDb 7.3TMDB 8.0 - 80
PavarottiMovie · 2019 · 115m · Documentary, History, MusicFilmmaker Ron Howard presents a comprehensive look at the life and career of legendary opera singer Luciano Pavarotti. The film features previously unseen footage, concert performances, and personal interviews.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 81
Beethoven privatMovie · 2020Celebrating Beethoven's 250th birthday, this documentary explores the composer's personal life by connecting his writings directly to his music. His letters and notes reveal his personality, relationships, humanitarian beliefs, and battles – particularly his challenges with increasing deafness from a young age.IMDb 7.0 - 82
Elusive JusticeMovie · 2011 · 120mNarrated by Candice Bergen, *Elusive Justice* is a comprehensive look at the worldwide pursuit of 20th-century war criminals over the past six decades. Thousands are still believed to be living. The film includes personal stories of the Nazi hunters and explores the roles played by different countries and organizations in either achieving justice or enabling criminals to evade it.IMDb 8.4TMDB 9.0 - 83
Stuck in the GrooveMovie · 2021 · 93m"Stuck in the Groove" is a documentary film that explores the history and development of vinyl records. Through interviews with experts, musicians, and devoted fans, the film chronicles the enduring appeal of vinyl, its connection to music, and the feelings of nostalgia it evokes.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0 - 84
Twenty TwoMovie · 2017 · 100mThis film follows the lives of elderly women who survived sexual slavery by the Japanese during World War II, known as "Comfort Women." At the time of filming, only 22 of these women were still living and able to share their experiences. Through their personal stories and viewpoints, they recount a history that must be remembered by future generations who may not know the extent of this brutalization.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.7 - 85
Thou Shalt Not: Sex, Sin and Censorship in Pre-Code HollywoodMovie · 2008 · 67mThis film explores the factors that defined early Hollywood and led to the establishment of the Hays Code in 1934, which enforced strict moral guidelines.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.1 - 86
The MidwifeMovie · 2020In 1943, Stanislawa Leszczynska was arrested by the Gestapo for aiding prisoners in the Lodz ghetto and deported to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp with her three children. There, she endured unimaginable hardship. Working as a midwife under brutal conditions, she delivered 3000 babies, saving every life. Recognized as one of Poland's four most remarkable women of the 20th century, her name was honored with the Life and Changing the Nation Goblet, a tribute from Polish women at Jasna Gora Monastery. What fueled this extraordinary woman? Where did her strength originate? And how did she maintain unwavering faith in her work, even in the face of death? - 87
Tupperware!Movie · 1994 · 52mThis is the true story of Earl Silas Tupper, a driven but private inventor, and Brownie Wise, the unconventional saleswoman who transformed his company into a national phenomenon with a line of innovative plastic containers. Brownie, a natural marketing innovator, developed a network of Tupperware sales representatives who hosted parties in homes across America during the 1950s. She celebrated their success with lavish annual events, which were documented on film. The saleswomen earned substantial incomes, and the experience profoundly impacted their lives.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 88
One Woman, One VoteMovie · 1995Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon narrates this episode of "American Experience," which explores the 72-year fight for women's suffrage. The program highlights key figures in the movement, such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Alice Paul, examines national anxieties about social change, and recounts the U.S. Senate's narrow passage of the 19th Amendment.IMDb 7.4 - 89
Caligula with Mary BeardMovie · 2013 · 60mThis film explores the truth behind the infamous stories surrounding Caligula, the Roman emperor known for his alleged madness. Professor Mary Beard separates fact from fiction in the historical accounts that depict him as a cruel and unstable ruler. Did Roman historians exaggerate his tyranny for political gain, or was he truly the monster he's been portrayed as?IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.6 - 90
The AmbassadorMovie · 2011 · 93m · Documentary, HistoryDanish journalist Mads Brügger goes undercover as a Liberian Ambassador to undertake a risky and darkly humorous investigation into the illegal blood diamond trade in Africa.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6 - 91
Who Killed Nancy?Movie · 2009 · 93mOn October 12th, 1978, New York City police found the body of a young woman in a hotel bathroom. The victim was Nancy Spungen, a former prostitute and stripper who had struggled with heroin addiction and was in a relationship with Sid Vicious, the bassist for the Sex Pistols.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.0 - 92
Holy SilenceMovie · 2020 · 56mWith World War II approaching, Pope Pius XI enlists a modest American priest to combat the injustices of Nazism and anti-Semitism. However, his efforts are cut short by his death, leading Pope Pius XII to pursue a significantly different course of action against Hitler and the Holocaust.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 93
RodeoMovie · 2018 · 77mThis documentary examines the challenges Estonia encountered in the early 1990s as it transitioned to independence after decades under Soviet control. The film centers on Mart Laar, who at 32 and with little political experience, became prime minister during a period when thousands of Soviet troops remained in the country.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 94
The Age of UskoksMovie · 2021 · 96mThis documentary explores the story of the Uskoks of Senj, a remarkable group who operated as both pirates and soldiers against the Ottoman Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries.IMDb 7.6 - 95
Bonaparte: The Egyptian CampaignMovie · 2016 · 65mIn 1798, Napoleon launched an expedition to conquer Egypt, deploying 38,000 soldiers and 10,000 sailors. He also included 167 scientists and artists, intending to establish a scientific mission for exploration. This marked the start of a significant exchange between Western knowledge and the Muslim world.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.0 - 96
City 40Movie · 2016 · 72m · Documentary, HistoryDeep within Russia lies a Soviet-era city, a community of thousands confined by barbed wire and guarded by armed personnel. Located in the Chelyabinsk Oblast, Ozyorsk – also known as City 40 – is one of the world's most polluted locations and houses vast quantities of nuclear materials.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 97
TrustworthyMovie · 2024 · 1mDriven by a desire for change, a passionate individual assembles a documentary team for a cross-country journey. They explore America's media landscape, the state of trust, and the future of democracy, seeking potential solutions, optimism, and shared values.IMDb 9.5 - 98State of WeightlessnessMovie · 1994 · 57mThis documentary explores the intense challenges of the Russian space program, where national prestige demanded the most rigorous training possible.IMDb 7.6TMDB 8.0
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The Atomic CafeMovie · 1982 · 86m · Documentary, HistoryFollowing World War II and the U.S. development of nuclear weapons, the government made propaganda films in the 1940s and 1950s to ease public anxiety. Combining factual information with speculation and stories, these films tried to assure Americans that the atomic bomb was secure and protected them. Using powerful imagery and carefully crafted narratives, the government aimed to build confidence in its control of this new weapon, even as it worried about the future. This collection reveals how a nation grappled with nuclear power during a time of major change.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 100
1Movie · 2013 · 112m · Documentary'1' is set during the glamorous era of Grand Prix racing and tells the story of a group of daring drivers who pushed the limits of speed and risked everything in Formula 1's most dangerous time. It also focuses on the individuals who fought to reform the sport.IMDb 7.9TMDB 6.6