994 Essential History Documentary Films
993 titles
- 301
Red ZoneMovie · 2019 · 16mA century after World War I and II ended, the people of northeastern France continue to live with its lasting impact. Guy Momper, a veteran minesweeper, and his team of deminers work tirelessly to remove unexploded ordnance from the fields. Their mission is projected to take three centuries to finish.IMDb 8.0 - 302
The Silver Screen: Color Me LavenderMovie · 1997 · 100mThis film explores a collection of personal artifacts – photographs and notes – from the past, concealing hidden meanings. The film gradually reveals how seemingly harmless images, viewed decades later, now suggest homosexual undertones.IMDb 6.3TMDB 4.9 - 303
Big TimeMovie · 2024 · 90mCoach Sylvester Ford Sr., known as "Big Time" for his height as a child, became a pillar of his community. A Civil Rights Movement activist, he also excelled as a basketball and swim coach, teacher, and musical director, and was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend. "Big Time," winner of the Hometown Feature Audience Award at Indie Memphis 2024, tells the story of this legendary Memphis basketball coach and encourages us to embrace a life of purpose. - 304
The GirlsMovie · 2014 · 60mFour elderly women recount a history overlooked by time: the activism and defiance of young women involved in the leftist youth movement against the dictatorship of Marcos Pérez Jiménez. - 305
Same Sex AmericaMovie · 2005 · 89mIn the spring of 2004, Massachusetts was on the verge of legalizing same-sex marriage. This documentary follows several local couples and their families during the months leading up to and immediately following this pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history, as they prepare for their weddings. It also includes interviews with those who actively opposed the movement, and ultimately failed to stop it. The film premiered at the Independent Film Festival of Boston in April 2005, just a month before the one-year anniversary of the decision.IMDb 7.3TMDB 2.7 - 306
Bergman: A Year in a LifeMovie · 2018 · 118m · Documentary, HistoryIn 1957, acclaimed Swedish director Ingmar Bergman was incredibly busy. He completed two films that would later become among his most famous, alongside four plays and a television movie. All of this occurred while navigating a complex personal life.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 307
O.J.: Made in AmericaMovie · 2016 · 467m · Documentary, Crime, HistoryThis is the story of O.J. Simpson, from his fame to his downfall. His highly publicized murder trial brought deep racial divisions in America to the forefront, exposing a nation struggling with its own fractures.IMDb 8.9TMDB 8.4 - 308Julius FučíkMovie · 1953
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Patterns of Evidence: The ExodusMovie · 2015 · 115mA controversy surrounds the Bible's historical accuracy, with many archaeologists doubting the Exodus story of Israelites escaping slavery in Egypt. Filmmaker Timothy Mahoney grapples with this doubt: could this foundational biblical event be a myth? He undertakes a 12-year global journey to find answers. Exploring the Exodus, the film blends scientific investigation with a retelling of the biblical narrative, revealing a surprising pattern of evidence that aligns with the biblical account and potentially reshapes our understanding of history.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 310
PatriaMovie · 2019 · 89mPaco Ignacio Taibo II adapts his book trilogy, focusing on a pivotal era in Mexican history from 1854 to 1867 – a period he believes shaped the nation's identity.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 311
JFK: The Three MilesMovie · 2023 · 25mIn June 1963, President John F. Kennedy's visit to Ireland profoundly impacted global views of the country. Kennedy himself called his four-day trip "the best of his life." A highlight was June 29th in Galway, a city celebrated for its promenade, beaches, and vibrant traditional Irish culture. This film recounts that day through the memories of Galway residents, capturing the overwhelming excitement felt by the community at hosting such a distinguished guest – the President of the United States – an unprecedented honor for the city.IMDb 6.7TMDB 10.0 - 312
The Real Robin HoodMovie · 2010 · 120mThis History Channel program explores the enduring legend of Robin Hood: was he a real person who stole from the wealthy to help the less fortunate? The program examines the folk hero's origins, suggesting he's based on several historical figures, and reviews their documented deeds. Historians and cast members from the 2010 film "Robin Hood," along with director Ridley Scott, offer insights into the legend.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.7 - 313
MoogMovie · 2004 · 72mRobert Moog, the American inventor of the Moog synthesizer, revolutionized music with his groundbreaking electronic instruments. This documentary offers an intimate look at the visionary behind these innovations and the global impact he had on musical culture. Described as a "compelling documentary portrait of a provocative, thoughtful and deeply sympathetic figure" (New York Times), the film explores Moog's creative process and the worldwide phenomenon he inspired.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.2 - 314
Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?Movie · 1975 · 107mThe film uses period music, film clips, and newsreel footage to visually explore the American entertainment industry during the Great Depression.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1 - 315
The Long Way HomeMovie · 1997 · 120mThis is the story of Jewish refugees in the aftermath of World War II, from the time of their liberation to the founding of the modern state of Israel.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 316
Atatürk: Father of Modern TurkeyMovie · 2018 · 55mThis docudrama explores the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Emerging from the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, he established the Republic of Turkey. His legacy is pervasive, with monuments in cities across the nation and his death anniversary observed annually. Criticism of Atatürk is illegal. Few politicians have transformed a society as profoundly and rapidly as Atatürk did in Turkey.TMDB 7.8 - 317Battle of Long TanMovie · 2006 · 104mOn August 18, 1966, 108 young Australian and New Zealand soldiers are isolated and under heavy attack. They fight desperately to survive against 2,500 experienced Viet Cong and North Vietnamese troops in the rain-soaked mud of the Long Tan rubber plantation. With dwindling ammunition and a final assault imminent, the soldiers face seemingly insurmountable odds. Long Tan tells the true story of how ordinary young men transformed into heroes.IMDb 8.0TMDB 9.0
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McKellen: Playing the PartMovie · 2018 · 92mBased on a 14-hour interview, *McKellen: Playing the Part* offers an intimate look at the defining moments of Sir Ian McKellen's life, from childhood to his enduring career in the public spotlight. The film combines personal photographs from McKellen's albums with recreated scenes to reveal the raw talent behind his captivating performances – his intensity, range, and dedication to the craft.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 319
Documerica: Self-Portrait of a Nation on the BrinkMovie · 2023 · 70mDuring the 1970s, under the Nixon administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launched Documerica, a major photographic project to record the nation's environmental state. The resulting tens of thousands of photographs, captured by hundreds of photographers, form a distinctive archive depicting a country scarred by pollution and environmental damage.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.7 - 320
All In: The Fight for DemocracyMovie · 2020 · 102mThis film explores the serious problem of voter suppression in the U.S., focusing on the issues leading up to the 2020 presidential election. Featuring insights from Stacey Abrams, former Georgia House Minority Leader, it provides an inside view of the laws and obstacles that restrict voting and threaten the fundamental rights of American citizens.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.3 - 321
War BabyMovie · 2019 · 38mDuewand Collier Jr., a 68-year-old American man, was born in the Philippines during the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States. Shaped by his Catholic upbringing, he has come to terms with his history and now recounts a story about love.TMDB 1.0 - 322
All of Them WitchesMovie · 2022 · 60m"All of Them Witches" is a documentary exploring a history told from the perspective of modern witches and experts in history and anthropology. The one-hour film presents an alternate and authentic view of the past.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.8 - 323
Elhallgatott gyalázatMovie · 2013IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.0 - 324
The Barkley Marathons: The Race That Eats Its YoungMovie · 2014 · 90m · Documentary, HistoryFor 25 years, fewer than 10 people have completed The Barkley Marathons. Inspired by a historic prison escape, this demanding race draws competitors from across the globe, pushing them to the absolute limits of their physical and mental strength. This documentary explores the meaning of enduring extreme pain.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 325
Appointment in TokyoMovie · 1945 · 56mThis film, produced by the Army Pictorial Service with support from the Army Air Forces and the Navy, and released by Warner Bros. for the War Activities Committee shortly after Japan's surrender, chronicles General Douglas MacArthur and his forces from their retreat from the Philippines in early 1942 to the signing of the Japanese instrument of surrender aboard the USS Missouri on September 1, 1945. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2013.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.8 - 326
Mondo FordMovie · 2000 · 7mDirector Scott Calonico's film offers a controversial explanation for President Kennedy's assassination, implicating President Gerald Ford alongside theories about Bigfoot, Stonehenge, pyramids, and extraterrestrial involvement.IMDb 7.2 - 327
Ben FranklinMovie · 2004 · 91mThis documentary chronicles the life and accomplishments of a pivotal figure in the birth of the United States.IMDb 8.0 - 328
9/11: Life Under AttackMovie · 2021 · 77mThis is a powerful and intimate story of the day that reshaped the modern world, told through the firsthand footage captured by everyday people who documented the event with their cameras.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.5 - 329
The TrialMovie · 2023 · 177mThis film chronicles the landmark trial held between April and December 1985. It focuses on the leaders of Argentina's last dictatorship (1976-1983), who were accused of responsibility for the disappearance of thousands of people and other crimes committed by the state.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.4 - 330
Uncle TomMovie · 2020 · 106mUncle Tom presents a series of personal conversations with prominent Black conservative voices, offering a fresh perspective on the Black American experience.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.6 - 331
Face DownMovie · 2023 · 89mOn December 27th, 1973, a family's life was shattered when Thomas Niedermayer, a German businessman, was kidnapped from his Belfast home. He was last seen alive that night and vanished without a trace. Niedermayer became one of the many people who disappeared during that time, leaving his friends and family with no answers about his fate.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 332
German Concentration Camps Factual SurveyMovie · 2017 · 75mOn September 29, 1945, a preliminary version of a powerful documentary about concentration camps was shown at the Ministry of Information in London. For five months, Sidney Bernstein led a small team—including Stewart McAllister, Richard Crossman, and Alfred Hitchcock—to assemble the film from hours of harrowing footage. This ambitious Allied project, intended to expose the Nazi regime and encourage acceptance of Allied rule in Germany, arrived at a time when its impact was limited. Even in its unfinished state (available since 1984), the film deeply affected audiences. Now fully restored and presented as a six-reel version by the Imperial War Museums, it is being hailed as comparable to Alain Resnais’ *Night and Fog* (1955).IMDb 8.5TMDB 7.3 - 333
M. C. Escher: Journey to InfinityMovie · 2018 · 81mThis film explores the life of M.C. Escher (1898-1972) through his own writings: diary entries, letters, and lecture notes.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 334
Waltz with BashirMovie · 2008 · 90m · Drama, Animation, WarAn Israeli film director speaks with other veterans of the 1982 Lebanon War. He uses their stories to piece together his own recollections of serving in the conflict.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7 - 335
VoyagersMovie · 2015 · 15mFollow the Voyager spacecraft on their journey through the solar system, a decades-long exploration of the planets.IMDb 7.2 - 336
Apollo 11Movie · 2019 · 93m · Documentary, History, DramaThis film chronicles the Apollo 11 mission, commanded by Neil Armstrong and piloted by Buzz Aldrin, to land on the moon.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9 - 337
Bravo! Common Men, Uncommon ValorMovie · 2011 · 118mFourteen Marines and a Corpsman recount their experiences from enlisting to surviving the 77-day Siege of Khe Sanh during the Vietnam War. These young men, just boys in 1968, describe their intense struggle in the isolated and challenging battle, facing both fear and the enemy. They return home to a country divided by the war's controversy. Decades later, the events of Khe Sanh continue to resonate deeply with them.IMDb 8.5 - 338
Dick Cavett's WatergateMovie · 2014 · 56mBetween 1972 and 1974, "The Dick Cavett Show" extensively covered the Watergate scandal. Cavett interviewed nearly everyone involved as the crisis unfolded, providing leading national television coverage. This archive documents the scandal through firsthand accounts: from the Democratic National Headquarters burglary to the televised Congressional hearings and the White House's conflict with Cavett's show, ultimately ending with President Nixon's resignation on August 9, 1974. This offers a unique look at a defining moment in American history, marking its 40th anniversary.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.0 - 339
The Conqueror: Hollywood FalloutMovie · 2024 · 116mThis is the story of a major environmental disaster in the United States, and the controversial film that exposed it to the public.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.3 - 340
Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly StoryMovie · 2010 · 88m"Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story" explores how the iconic board game achieved global popularity, focusing on the diverse individuals who compete to become the Monopoly World Champion.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2 - 341
Explosion 1812Movie · 2012 · 59mOn April 27, 1813, American troops defeated the British at York (now Toronto), capturing Upper Canada's capital – though not without casualties. History Television’s *Explosion 1812* examines the Battle of York and reveals new information about this often-overlooked event during the War of 1812.IMDb 6.5 - 342
Secrets of the Dead: The Real Trojan HorseMovie · 2015 · 55mThe Trojan Horse: a legendary surprise attack that ended a decade-long siege. Did the Greeks actually deceive the Trojans with a giant wooden horse filled with soldiers, bringing down the mighty city? Was this story from Homer's *Iliad* history or myth? This film explores whether the city of Troy and the Trojan War as we know it are based in reality.IMDb 7.2 - 343
HiroshimaMovie · 2005 · 89m · Documentary, Drama, WarThis documentary details the world's first nuclear attack and its devastating consequences. Over three weeks, from the initial Trinity test to the bombing of Hiroshima, it explores the political decisions leading up to America's use of atomic weapons. Using archival footage, dramatizations, and special effects, the film depicts events aboard the Enola Gay and the explosion itself.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2 - 344
Color AdjustmentMovie · 1992 · 80mBlack people have had a long history on American primetime television, from early shows like Amos 'n' Andy to iconic figures like Nat King Cole and more recent hits like Roots and The Cosby Show. Marlon Riggs uses clips from these classic TV programs, combined with perspectives from TV producers, Black actors, and scholars, to examine how black and white relations have changed over time, as seen through the lens of America’s most popular entertainment. He blends humor, insightful observations, and careful analysis in his exploration.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 345
Unto MidnightMovie · 2023 · 9mThis film explores a filmmaker's personal struggle with recurring nightmares of nuclear annihilation, framed by the historical context of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. It's an anti-war story examining the psychological impact of potential global conflict. - 346
Into the Arms of Strangers: Stories of the KindertransportMovie · 2000 · 122m · Documentary, History, WarIn the year before World War II, ten thousand children fled Nazi persecution, leaving their families, homes, and childhoods behind to journey to Britain for safety.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 347
Hitler's ChildrenMovie · 2011 · 83mThe names Himmler, Frank, Goering, and Hoess are synonymous with horror. This film explores the lives of those who carry these names – descendants of the most powerful figures in the Nazi regime. They grapple with a legacy inextricably linked to one of history's greatest atrocities. The film asks: What is it like to live with a name that instantly conjures images of genocide? How do they cope with the burden of their ancestors' actions? Can they ever escape the shadow of the past?IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 348
Painters PaintingMovie · 1973 · 116mPainters Painting: The New York Art Scene 1940-1970 is a 1972 documentary by Emile de Antonio. It explores American art movements, from abstract expressionism to pop art, through interviews with artists in their studios. The film features Willem de Kooning, Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Helen Frankenthaler, Frank Stella, Barnett Newman, Hans Hofmann, Jules Olitski, Philip Pavia, Larry Poons, Robert Motherwell, and Kenneth Noland.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.5 - 349
NiepodległośćMovie · 2018IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 350
Casablanca revisitadaMovie · 1992 · 18mThis film explores the enduring impact of Casablanca, Michael Curtiz's 1942 classic, on cinema and popular culture. It examines the ways the movie has resonated throughout history and continues to shape how we see films today.IMDb 6.7 - 351
The PlagueMovie · 2005 · 100mIt started like a cold, but quickly escalated to fever, black swellings on the neck, and a deadly bloody cough. During the worst plague in human history, the Black Death spread uncontrollably, disrupting society. Religious panic led people to seek blame. Nearly a third of Europe's population died, leaving survivors to face a drastically altered world. This documentary examines the origins of the Black Death and considers the frightening possibility of a similar modern-day biological disaster.IMDb 7.3TMDB 8.0 - 352
CIA vs. Bin Laden: First InMovie · 2021Twenty years after 9/11 and a decade after his death, this documentary offers the most revealing account yet of the CIA's ten-year pursuit of Osama Bin Laden. Through interviews with former CIA Directors, case officers, military leaders, European intelligence officials, and a US Congressman directly involved in the hunt, the film explores the operation that led to the world's top terrorist's demise. Many key figures have remained silent, but they have now agreed to share their stories, motivated by a desire to speak before time passes. Where possible, the film includes testimonies from those who directly interacted with Bin Laden, including his family, associates, and fighters.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.5 - 353
ZeitgeistMovie · 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 - 354
The Apocalypse of St JohnMovie · 2024 · 110m · Documentary, History'The Apocalypse of Saint John' follows the Apostle John as he experiences visions of the End Times. The film presents these visions through stunning visuals and large-scale scenes, immersing the audience in the story of the apocalypse. It’s a journey through time and faith, depicting the unfolding events of the world's end.IMDb 6.9TMDB 8.3 - 355
The Helsinki EffectMovie · 2025 · 88mThe Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) marked the beginning of the gradual decline of communist control in Eastern Europe. "The Helsinki Effect" offers a fresh look at the Cold War era. The film recounts the CSCE process, which significantly influenced the end of the Cold War, revealing previously hidden high-level conversations through AI-generated voice simulations.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.9 - 356
The Rebel Physician: Nicholas Culpeper's Fight For Medical FreedomMovie · 2007 · 58mBenjamin Woolley's gripping story follows Nicholas Culpeper, a 17th-century pharmacist who challenged the powerful medical establishment to make healthcare accessible to everyone. Living through a period of British turmoil marked by famine and civil war, Culpeper participated in the revolution that led to the execution of King Charles I. However, he became renowned for his work in healthcare. Practicing herbalism (often outside the law) and publishing accessible guides to treating common illnesses, he broke the medical establishment's hold on the poor. His book, *The English Physician*, became the best-selling non-religious English book ever, remaining in print for over 350 years. - 357
Freedom RidersMovie · 2010 · 117mThe film tells the story of over four hundred Americans who took part in a risky experiment meant to challenge a nation's indifference. These activists, known as Freedom Riders, directly confronted racial segregation with a straightforward act of defiance.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 358
Joana AngélicaMovie · 1981IMDb 6.3 - 359
The Spirit of '45Movie · 2013 · 94mThe wartime spirit of national unity continued after the war, inspiring a vision for a more equitable and unified society.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.1 - 360
The Story of GdanskMovie · 1953 · 21mThis documentary explores the history of Gdańsk. It opens in a Pomeranian town on the Baltic Sea, a stop along the historic European Amber Road, and concludes at the modern-day Gdańsk Shipyard. - 361
The AutomatMovie · 2021 · 79mThis is the story of Horn & Hardart, the legendary restaurant chain that influenced Starbucks, and where families across America shared meals and coffee at communal tables for a century. Through the memories of people who knew it, we see the business rise to become a huge success, and then struggle to survive in a new America dominated by fast food.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.8 - 362
The Searching EyeMovie · 1964 · 22mA young boy's everyday play on the beach subtly reveals hidden aspects of the world around him. The film uses visual techniques to enhance the boy's experiences, offering audiences a richer perception of how we see.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.5 - 363
We Like It Like ThatMovie · 2015 · 81m"Latin Boogaloo is New York City" explores the vibrant 1960s Latino music scene that emerged from the diverse neighborhoods of El Barrio, the South Bronx, and Brooklyn. Featuring legendary artists like Joe Bataan, Johnny Colon, and Pete Rodriguez, the film uses original interviews, music recordings, live performances, dancing, and rare archival footage to chronicle this significant, yet often overlooked, period in Latin music history. From its beginnings to its modern revival, "We Like It Like That" tells the story of a sound that captivated a generation and proved impossible to ignore.IMDb 8.0 - 364
Surname Viêt Given Name NamMovie · 1989 · 108mThis film explores themes of identity, how we remember the past, and cultural narratives. It centers on the experiences of Vietnamese women who resisted oppression both in Vietnam and in the United States, while also examining the complexities of interviewing and documenting history.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.2 - 365
Lowndes County and the Road to Black PowerMovie · 2022 · 90mThis documentary uses firsthand stories and powerful historical footage to recount the story of a local movement. It focuses on young organizers from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) who fought for more than just voting rights in Lowndes County, Alabama – they fought for Black Power.IMDb 7.7TMDB 1.5 - 366
Lost Tombs of the PyramidsMovie · 2020 · 44mAn elite team of archaeologists excavates a secret site near the pyramids. Will their work uncover surprising new evidence about the pharaohs who built these monuments?IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.6 - 367
Enormous: The Gorge StoryMovie · 2021 · 65m"Enormous: The Gorge Story" details the surprising history of The Gorge Amphitheatre, a world-renowned outdoor music venue. The film explores how this iconic location transformed from a small winery founded by a neurosurgeon into a premier destination for concerts. Sign up for updates and exclusive music content.IMDb 7.0TMDB 3.5 - 368
HellstormMovie · 2015 · 90mThis documentary reveals a hidden history: the alleged atrocities committed against the German people by the Allied forces following World War II. It presents claims of widespread rape, torture, slavery, and mass murder carried out by the victorious Allies, a narrative often excluded from mainstream historical accounts.IMDb 6.7TMDB 9.0 - 369
The HypnotistMovie · 2019 · 75mIn 1980, Finland's renowned hypnotist Olavi Hakasalo, known as Olliver Hawk, faced trial. He dedicated his life to demonstrating the power of suggestion and risked everything for political influence. However, as national affairs loomed, his unconventional personality and hidden secrets made him seen as a risk in the highest circles of power.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.7 - 370
AngelHeaded Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan & T. RexMovie · 2023 · 99mThis film explores the innovative music and songwriting of Marc Bolan and T. Rex, the influential force behind hits like "Bang a Gong (Get it On)." It features archival footage of performances and interviews with Elton John, Ringo Starr, and David Bowie, alongside musical interpretations by artists including Nick Cave, John Cameron Mitchell, Joan Jett, Macy Gray, U2, and Father John Misty.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.8 - 371
Advise & DissentMovie · 2012A look at the behind-the-scenes maneuvering during contentious Supreme Court confirmations, where legal principles and political power intersect.IMDb 7.9 - 372
Everyday Sunshine: The Story of FishboneMovie · 2011 · 107mEmerging from the evolving landscape of Hollywood and the economic and racial divisions of the Reagan era, Fishbone became one of the most unique bands of the past quarter-century. They powerfully blended punk and funk, breaking down genre boundaries and challenging racial stereotypes and the established power structures within the music industry and society as a whole.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 373
Granito: How to Nail a DictatorMovie · 2011 · 80mThis is a story about how the history of Guatemala shapes the lives of individuals, and how a documentary film becomes deeply connected to the country's ongoing struggles. The film itself becomes a powerful force in the present day.IMDb 7.2TMDB 4.5 - 374
Jimmy Carter: Rock & Roll PresidentMovie · 2020 · 96mThis film explores Jimmy Carter's presidency and how he revitalized America following the Watergate scandal. It examines the influence of the counterculture era's music – featuring artists like the Allman Brothers Band, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, and Jimmy Buffett – on his time in office.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9 - 375
Let Freedom Sing: How Music Inspired the Civil Rights MovementMovie · 2009Throughout the 20th century, music powerfully mirrored America's most significant moments – from the Civil Rights movement to Watergate. This film explores the sounds of artists like Pete Seeger, offering a musical journey through those turbulent times.IMDb 6.4 - 376
A Place of Our OwnMovie · 2014 · 75mIMDb 8.2TMDB 10.0 - 377
Facing NolanMovie · 2022 · 105mNolan Ryan forged a unique legend in Major League Baseball. This documentary tells his story through the eyes of the batters who challenged him and the teammates who admired him. Facing Nolan is the ultimate look at a Texas icon.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 378
The First WaveMovie · 2021 · 94mIn 2020, filmmaker Matthew Heineman received unprecedented access to a major New York City hospital as the COVID-19 pandemic began. The film follows the doctors, nurses, and patients working on the front lines during the initial surge of the virus, from March to June. Through their individual stories, the film offers a close look at how the city fought to survive the worst pandemic in a hundred years.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 379
Liberty: Mother of ExilesMovie · 2019 · 83mThis film explores the story behind the Statue of Liberty and how sculptor Auguste Bartholdi’s work has resonated with people globally.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.5 - 380
Sisters with TransistorsMovie · 2021 · 86mElectronic music often conjures images of men experimenting with technology. However, women have been essential to its development since the start, pioneering the instruments, methods, and musical ideas that shaped the genre.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 381
Workers Leaving the Lumière FactoryMovie · 1895 · 1m · History, Documentary"On the Buses" is a classic British comedy series that aired from 1969 to 1973, focusing on the funny everyday life of a busy bus depot. Ronald Wolfe and Ronald Chesney, who had previously created successful shows like "The Rag Trade" and "Meet the Wife" for the BBC, first pitched "On the Buses" but were initially turned down because the network didn't think a bus depot would be funny.
Fortunately, Frank Muir, Head of Entertainment at London Weekend Television, championed the project. Though critics weren't initially impressed, "On the Buses" quickly became popular with viewers and a beloved part of British television. The series offers a lighthearted look at the friendships, accidents, and silly moments of bus drivers, conductors, and maintenance workers, making it a classic comedy for fans.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 382
Expedition AmeliaMovie · 2019 · 95mExplorer Robert Ballard journeys to the remote Pacific atoll of Nikumaroro with a team of specialists, determined to unravel the mystery surrounding Amelia Earhart's disappearance and locate her final resting place.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 383
Eternal SpringMovie · 2023 · 86mIn March 2002, Falun Gong members hack a state TV signal in China to challenge the government's portrayal of their spiritual practice. Following the incident, police raids occur in Changchun City, and Daxiong, a Falun Gong practitioner and comic book artist (known for work on Justice League and Star Wars), is compelled to flee. He reaches North America, believing the hacking intensified the government's violent crackdown. However, his perspective shifts when he encounters the sole survivor of China, now living in Seoul, South Korea.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.9 - 384
The Black DeathMovie · 2017 · 54mThe film depicts the era when the bubonic plague devastated Norway.IMDb 7.4 - 385
Robin BankMovie · 2022 · 80mEnric Duran, a Catalan activist, orchestrated a daring act during the 2008 economic crisis. He acquired half a million euros from banks through unpaid loans, using the funds to support social initiatives. Duran then publicly revealed his actions to the media, aiming to expose perceived injustices within the banking system.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9 - 386
Twenty Pearls: The Story of Alpha Kappa Alpha SororityMovie · 2021 · 91m"Twenty Pearls" is a story about sisterhood. In 1908, nine Black women who were students at Howard University made a decision that would alter history. These students founded Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.IMDb 8.7 - 387
FDRMovie · 1994 · 270mFrom polio at 39 to president by 50, this film explores the public and private life of a determined man who led the country through the Depression and World War II. FDR served as president longer than anyone before him, and his influence continues to define the role of government and the presidency. A film by award-winning filmmaker David Grubin. This is the second part of a four-part series.IMDb 8.5TMDB 7.1 - 388John F. Kennedy: A Personal StoryMovie · 1996 · 90mA&E's award-winning "Biography" series tells the compelling story of John F. Kennedy, the unforgettable leader and the dynasty he created. Kennedy remains remembered as a youthful president who inspired America, a charismatic leader who instilled pride and confidence in the nation. His intelligence, wit, and determination earned him many friends and followers. A World War II hero, respected senator, and author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning "Profiles in Courage," Kennedy viewed life as a challenge to boredom. Using archival footage and interviews with friends, journalists, actors, and former colleagues – including former cabinet member John Kenneth Galbraith – "JFK: A Personal Story" revisits key moments of his life and presidency with clarity and insight.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.0
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All the President's Men RevisitedMovie · 2013 · 120mThe Watergate scandal fundamentally reshaped American politics. This film explores how it altered the office of the President, impacted political leaders, and contributed to a decline in national optimism, replaced by doubt and cynicism. In 1973, the scandal's most critical year, reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein relentlessly investigated, uncovering a complex web of cover-ups and deceit.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0 - 390
Girls Can't SurfMovie · 2021 · 108mSet in the 1980s, the world of professional surfing was a vibrant but fiercely competitive environment dominated by men. "Girls Can't Surf" chronicles the story of a group of determined female surfers who challenged the established order to fight for equality and transform the sport. Featuring surfing legends like Jodie Cooper, Frieda Zamba, Pauline Menczer, Lisa Andersen, Pam Burridge, Wendy Botha, and Layne Beachley, the film is a dynamic exploration of clashing personalities, sexism, adventure, and disappointment as these women strive to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams of competing.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.8 - 391
L'ExodeMovie · 2020TMDB 9.3 - 392
NankingMovie · 2007 · 88m · Documentary, Drama, HistoryThis film recounts the horrific Rape of Nanking, a pivotal and devastating event in history. In 1937, the Japanese army's invasion resulted in the murder of over 200,000 Chinese civilians and the rape of tens of thousands more. Amidst this unimaginable brutality, a small group of Westerners united to shelter and protect 250,000 people. *Nanking* illustrates the profound difference individuals can make in shaping historical events.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1 - 393
The 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 - 394
The Untold History Of The United StatesMovie · 2012 · 585m · Documentary, HistoryOliver Stone chronicles the history of the United States, spanning the period from World War II to the present day.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.1 - 395
Industrial RevolutionMovie · 2014 · 73mFor over a century, the Ave Valley has been dominated by a powerful industry. We journey down the river, traveling through ruins and past working factories, to reveal the historical impact of this industry along the riverbanks.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.0 - 396
Night 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 - 397
The SonMovie · 2021 · 46mThis film uses previously unseen photographs by Italian war photographer Enrico Sarsini and recreations of key moments to tell the story of the battle for a vital church defended by Azerbaijani teenager Natig Gasimov. After surrendering and being questioned by Armenian forces, Natig disappeared. The film investigates his fate and explores who might be responsible. Over three years, filmmaker Karan Singh interviewed witnesses in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Italy, and Russia in his quest for answers.IMDb 9.6 - 398
Voyage of Time: Life's JourneyMovie · 2017 · 90m · Documentary, Drama, HistoryThis film is a sweeping exploration of the universe, charting its history from beginning to end. It examines everything that led to the world we know today: the interplay of science and spirituality, the cycles of life and death, and the vastness of the cosmos alongside the intricacies of life on Earth.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 399
King Kong: Monster and MythMovie · 2024 · 61mIn 1933, Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack, two bold and innovative directors, made a film that surpassed all previous movies. The release of King Kong was hailed as an artistic and technical breakthrough, and it became the first major myth born from the new art of cinema.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.3 - 400
Nazi Concentration CampsMovie · 1945 · 59m · Documentary, History, WarThis documentary recounts the Holocaust through testimonies from victims, both those who lived and those who died, alongside footage of the concentration camps. Presented at the Nuremberg trials to prosecute Nazi leaders like Hermann Göring, it documents the brutal conditions, mass killings, and torture endured by prisoners. The film offers an unflinching look at this dark period in history, ensuring these atrocities are remembered as a warning against hatred and intolerance.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.7