W2TCH

994 Essential History Documentary Films

993 titles

Default orderPopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox officeAscending
  1. 501The ServantMovie · 2023 · 111mLera, a domestic worker, is accused of a crime and finds herself in a cell at a Civil Guard barracks. There, she meets Mihaela and Julia, two prostitutes, and recounts the story of Santa Vicenta María, the founder of the Religious of Mary Immaculate, claiming the saint saved her life.IMDb 6.3TMDB 4.0
  2. 502StupidityMovie · 2003 · 61mThis film examines how society defines and has historically viewed stupidity. It’s a look at the concept itself and the ways we've understood it over time.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.2
  3. 503The Beginning or the EndMovie · 1947 · 112mThis docudrama chronicles the process of creating the world's first atomic bomb and the subsequent bombing of Hiroshima.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1
  4. 504Caesar's Messiah: The Roman Conspiracy to Invent JesusMovie · 2012 · 84mThis documentary, based on Joseph Atwill's bestselling book, argues that Jesus was not a historical person. It proposes that his life story was modeled after a Roman military campaign, his promised return was about a past event, and the Gospels were written by Caesars who left behind evidence. Featuring six other debated Bible scholars, the film suggests that Christ's teachings originated from ancient pagan mystery schools and that Christianity has historically been employed as a tool for social control, a practice continuing to this day.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6
  5. 505MedeaMovie · 1973 · 7mBen Caldwell’s *Medea* is a film created by combining live-action footage with quickly edited still images of Africans and African Americans, all assembled on an animation stand and edited solely in camera. These images appear as glimpses into the past, representing the history an unborn child will inherit. The film is an experimental exploration of art history, Black imagery, identity, and heritage, inspired by Amiri Baraka’s poem “Part of the Doctrine.”IMDb 7.3
  6. 506UnBrokenMovie · 2025 · 97mA woman whose mother survived the Holocaust travels the world searching for details about her mother and five siblings. As children, they fled Nazi Germany relying on courage and the help of German people.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.0
  7. 507The Poisoner's HandbookMovie · 2014 · 112mIn 1918, New York City appointed its first scientifically trained medical examiner, Charles Norris. For the next fifteen years, Norris and his brilliant chief toxicologist, Alexander Gettler, revolutionized forensic chemistry. Their work led to the conviction of numerous murderers and established standards that the rest of the nation would later follow.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.7
  8. 508Show of TitlesMovie · 2021 · 84mA showcase of renowned performers singing the theme songs from classic Broadway musicals.
  9. 509Churchill's ToyshopMovie · 2015 · 46mDuring Britain's darkest days, Winston Churchill gathers a group of unusual geniuses to combat the Nazi threat by developing strange and ingenious weapons.IMDb 7.0
  10. 510Stanisław Lem: Autor SolarisMovie · 2016 · 53mThis film explores the life and career of Stanisław Lem (1921-2006), a major voice in science fiction. His work delves into intricate mysteries and thought-provoking paradoxes, inviting audiences to consider new perspectives.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.2
  11. 511TeslaMovie · 2016 · 54mNikola Tesla was a brilliant engineer and inventor who transformed the electrical world in the 20th century. Though less known than Edison and Marconi, Tesla's ideas were essential to the development of wireless technology. His powerful imagination fueled his genius but also led to problems; the public often saw him as an eccentric, overshadowing his achievements as a pioneering innovator.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1
  12. 512Rainbow WarriorMovie · 2022 · 94mIn 1985, the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior was bombed by French government operatives in New Zealand, killing photographer Fernando Pereira as the vessel prepared to protest nuclear testing. Edward McGurn's documentary explores the complex story behind the bombing, revealing a web of nuclear politics, government cover-ups, and efforts to combat environmental disaster. The film questions whether Pereira’s death was a simple accident or a deliberate act of political maneuvering.IMDb 7.6TMDB 8.0
  13. 513Global HaywireMovie · 2006 · 82mThis documentary examines the current condition of the world today.IMDb 6.5
  14. 514To End All War: Oppenheimer & the Atomic BombMovie · 2023 · 88m · Documentary, HistoryThis is the story of a man consumed by ambition who developed the atomic bomb, fundamentally altering warfare. His creation resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands and triggered widespread fear and panic.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.7
  15. 515Breakdown: 1975Movie · 2025 · 92m · DocumentaryIn 1975, amidst a period of significant social and political change in America, filmmakers began to reflect that turmoil in their work.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2
  16. 516DinolandiaMovie · 2025 · 96mA mechanic unearths the fossil of an enormous meat-eating dinosaur, sparking conflict between scientists, local officials, and nearby communities, all vying for control of "the biggest dinosaur in the world." As bones are stolen, replicas are made, and the mayor becomes fixated on turning the town into Dinolandia, everyone will do whatever it takes to survive.IMDb 9.0TMDB 10.0
  17. 517The Movie OrgyMovie · 1968 · 276mThe film weaves together fragments from 1950s and 1960s television, B-movies, commercials, music videos, newsreels, bloopers, satire, and promotional/government films. These clips combine to create a narrative about monsters and societal problems invading American cities.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.3
  18. 518Crisis 2001Movie · 2011 · 45m
  19. 519Warsaw: A City DividedMovie · 2019 · 71mThis film explores the history of the Warsaw Ghetto (1940-43), examining the experiences of those inside and outside its walls, and the lasting impact of this tragic period marked by division, destruction, and mass murder. Drawing on survivor testimonies and a newly discovered ten-minute film made by a Polish amateur filmmaker in 1941, the film sheds new light on this devastating era.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8
  20. 520First KillMovie · 2001 · 73mVietnam War veterans recount their experiences, sharing both the hardships and the defining moments of conflict. The film centers on Michael Herr, the scenario writer for Full Metal Jacket. The veterans describe the experience of taking a life for the first time and the lasting impact of those actions.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.0
  21. 521The Legacy of OthelloMovie · 2022 · 53mThis film examines the story of Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army, as told in Shakespeare's 1604 play and Verdi's 1887 opera. It’s a deeply tragic tale about how uncontrollable jealousy destroys Othello's love for his wife, Desdemona.TMDB 8.0
  22. 522RFKMovie · 2004 · 110mDavid Grubin's insightful biography examines the compelling and ultimately tragic life of Robert Kennedy, who spent much of his youth in the shadow of his famous brother, John. Following JFK's assassination, Robert found a defining role in American politics, only to have his own career cut short by an assassin's attack.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.0
  23. 523Maya Deren's SinkMovie · 2011 · 30mMaya Deren's Sink, a 30-minute experimental film, is a tribute to the influential avant-garde filmmaker, as remembered by those who knew her. Teiji Ito, Carolee Schneemann, and Judith Malvina wander through rooms, recalling Deren through fragmented memories of her architectural and personal spaces. Footage from Deren's films is projected onto the locations where they were shot – floors, furniture, and even the bowl of her old sink. These fluid light projections create an intimate atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the world of a filmmaker most viewers will never encounter, as the film evokes a sense of a bygone time and place.IMDb 6.4TMDB 4.5
  24. 524One Piece - En route vers l'épisode 1000Movie · 2021IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.4
  25. 525Hollywood ChineseMovie · 2007 · 90mHollywood Chinese explores the history of cinema through the experiences of Chinese Americans. Directed by Arthur Dong, a three-time Sundance award winner, this documentary journeys through a century of cinematic stories, discoveries, and legacies. It presents a fascinating look at actors, directors, writers, and icons who shaped American movies, from the silent films to today's Asian American cinema. Both entertaining and informative, Hollywood Chinese unveils previously untold stories about Asian performers on the big screen, revealing a complex history marked by memorable performances and innovative films, alongside a complicated past of race and representation.IMDb 7.7
  26. 526The Extraordinary VoyageMovie · 2011 · 64m · Documentary, HistoryThis is the story of Georges Méliès (1861-1938), a remarkable figure in early cinema, and the incredible discovery of a color copy of his film *A Trip to the Moon* (1902). The film was unexpectedly found in Spain and painstakingly restored by dedicated cinema enthusiasts.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.8
  27. 527Our TheatreMovie · 1975 · 73mThis film chronicles the 75-year history of the Moscow Art Theatre, featuring unique historical footage and rare excerpts from numerous stage performances.
  28. 528GettysburgMovie · 2011 · 86mThis film explores the Battle of Gettysburg, examining the conflict through both individual experiences and the broader military strategy.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.8
  29. 529Clinton, Inc.Movie · 2016 · 87mThis is the story of Bill and Hillary Clinton's intertwined political career, their business ventures, and their distinctive marriage. Those who have known them – biographers, close advisors, and people from both parties – offer insights into the Clinton's enduring influence on American politics.IMDb 8.2
  30. 530Lost Empire of PersiaMovie · 2022 · 84mThe ancient Persian cities of Persepolis and Thermopylae, famous for the Battle of Sparta, are yielding new secrets. Experts are now using advanced forensic archaeology to uncover hidden details about these lost civilizations.IMDb 8.0TMDB 6.5
  31. 531Hans Nielsen HaugeMovie · 2025 · 66mAt 25, Hauge experienced a profound spiritual awakening that transformed Norway. He spread his message through preaching, writing, publishing, and innovative business ventures, including employing people with mental and physical disabilities and empowering women in religious and business roles. Hauge championed a vision for Norway independent of state control, which led to persecution and imprisonment. Despite the cost, Hauge and his followers left a lasting impact on modern Norway.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.0
  32. 532Pyramid Builders: New CluesMovie · 2019 · 53mDecades of discoveries have been made at the pyramids, but now, hundreds of kilometers away, new insights into their construction are emerging. Two teams of Egyptologists, one in the desert and another on the Red Sea coast, are uncovering details about the world of Khufu's time that surpass findings at the pyramid sites themselves. Their discoveries shed light on how the ancient Egyptians worked. This film offers an immersive, weeks-long look inside these two archaeological missions, capturing authentic experiments in real time. These experiments reveal ancient techniques and methods, unlocking some secrets of the builders of the pyramids.
  33. 533Pelikan BlueMovie · 2024 · 80mHungary, 1990s. With travel to other countries newly available but prohibitively expensive, three young people resort to forging international train tickets to experience the world.IMDb 7.9TMDB 6.0
  34. 534MLK: The Assassination TapesMovie · 2012 · 46mThis film unveils a devastating tragedy through newly discovered footage, videos, and audio recordings.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.4
  35. 535Lusitanian IllusionMovie · 2010 · 65mThe film reveals the contrasting sides of Portugal during World War II: a seemingly peaceful, religious, and rural nation that sheltered over one hundred thousand European refugees heading to the Americas. Simultaneously, the country's political and cultural leaders subtly concealed their sympathies for Nazi Germany to maintain a neutral position on the world stage.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.4
  36. 536Scandalize My Name: Stories from the BlacklistMovie · 1998 · 54mThis film explores how the Red Scare, McCarthyism, and blacklisting intersected with the post-World War II fight by African Americans for better opportunities in radio, television, and theater. Starting in Harlem, it examines the impact of Paul Robeson and the efforts to discredit him. The film also looks at the roles of the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC), J. Edgar Hoover, and journalists like Ed Sullivan. It concludes with a tribute to Canada Lee. Throughout, interviews with those who lived through this period, including Dick Campbell and Fredrick O'Neal, offer firsthand accounts. During the 1940s and 1950s, anti-Communism was used as another way to uphold segregation and suppress African Americans.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.7
  37. 537Grand CentralMovie · 2008 · 51mOn February 1, 1913, over 150,000 people flocked to Grand Central Terminal to witness New York City's latest wonder. This impressive Beaux Arts building on 42nd Street featured an underground electric train station, poised to change transportation and reshape Midtown Manhattan.IMDb 7.4TMDB 9.0
  38. 538Zero Hour: Massacre at Columbine HighMovie · 2004 · 52mThe film depicts the last hour before the Columbine High School massacre on April 20, 1999. Two students at the school in Colorado carried out a deadly attack, killing twelve students and one teacher, and wounding twenty-one others, before taking their own lives.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.1
  39. 539Letters Live from the Archive: International Women’s DayMovie · 2021 · 54mTo celebrate International Women’s Day, LETTERS LIVE presents a new film featuring powerful letters read by a diverse group of acclaimed figures. The film includes performances by Olivia Colman, Gillian Anderson, Daisy Ridley, Caitlin Moran, Rose McGowan, Adwoa Aboah, Louise Brealey, and others. Music is provided by Roxanne Tataei.TMDB 8.0
  40. 540Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: A Historical PerspectiveMovie · 1994 · 52mThis documentary film highlights the significant achievements of the Civil Rights leader. The footage details Dr. King's fight against poverty and his strong opposition to the Vietnam War. It also features his powerful "I Have a Dream" speech.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0
  41. 541Tammisunnuntai 1918Movie · 2017 · 50mThis documentary recounts the initial hours of Finland's Civil War in January 1918.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.7
  42. 542The Merchants of CoolMovie · 2001 · 55mThis documentary examines how popular culture is marketed to teenagers.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.2
  43. 543William the ConquerorMovie · 1982 · 180mWilliam's rule brought about a significant shift, combining aspects of English and Norman systems to form the basis of the future medieval English kingdom. The extent of these sudden and extensive changes remains debated by historians; some, like Richard Southern, argue the Conquest was the most radical transformation in European history between the Roman Empire's decline and the 20th century. Written by Jeff Davis, III.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0
  44. 544Beyond the Movie: The Return of the KingMovie · 2003 · 52mThis documentary examines the connections between J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Return of the King" and historical events and figures.IMDb 6.3TMDB 8.1
  45. 545The Desert of Forbidden ArtMovie · 2011 · 80mIn a time of oppression, how does art endure? Under Soviet rule, artists who refuse to conform face execution, imprisonment, or mental institutions. Inspired by their fate, young Igor Savitsky secretly rescues 40,000 works by forbidden artists, establishing a hidden museum in the Uzbek desert, shielded from the KGB. Despite being penniless himself, he cleverly obtains funds from the authorities who are suppressing the art. Savitsky gathers a diverse collection of Russian Avant-Garde art, but his most significant find is a previously unknown group of artists who settled in Uzbekistan after the 1917 revolution. Influenced by the region's unique Islamic culture, they developed a strikingly original style – a fusion of European modernism and ancient Eastern traditions.IMDb 7.5TMDB 4.7
  46. 546ConistonMovie · 2012 · 55mIn 1928, the murder of a white dingo trapper triggered the last known massacre of Australia's Indigenous people in central Australia. Over one hundred people were killed during a series of retaliatory expeditions, forcing the survivors to flee their lands. Denied justice in official investigations and displaced from their homes, they recounted this tragic event to future generations.IMDb 7.1
  47. 547ShoahMovie · 1985 · 566m · Documentary, HistoryClaude Lanzmann’s powerful documentary explores the Holocaust through firsthand accounts. The film features over a decade of interviews with survivors, bystanders, and perpetrators, categorized into three groups. These personal stories offer intimate insights into life at the Chelmno and Auschwitz camps, the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, and include a disturbing account from an SS officer at Treblinka. Lanzmann’s unflinching documentation reveals the depths of human cruelty and resilience during this dark period.IMDb 8.7TMDB 8.2
  48. 548The Brothers WarnerMovie · 2008 · 94mThis is an intimate look at the lives of Harry, Albert, Sam, and Jack – four filmmakers who overcame hardship and personal loss to build a significant film studio committed to social responsibility.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6
  49. 549XavierMovie · 2006 · 56mFourth Week Films and the New Orleans Jesuit Province present Xavier, a documentary film about the life of the 16th-century Jesuit missionary Francis Xavier. Narrated by Liam Neeson, the film recounts Xavier's story using dramatizations, interviews, current-day footage, paintings, engravings, maps, and his own letters. Interviews with leading experts in Jesuit and Renaissance history are included, featuring Ingrid Rowland (Notre Dame University), Andrew Ross (University of Edinburgh), Lourdes del Costa (University of Goa, India), Anthony Ucerler, SJ (Jesuit Historical Institute in Rome), Gauvin Bailey (Clark University), and John O'Malley, SJ (Weston Jesuit School of Theology).IMDb 6.7TMDB 10.0
  50. 550Dinosaur QuizMovie · 2004 · 24mJoin Uncle Ray for a fun and educational look at dinosaurs, all while chatting with his niece on the phone.IMDb 4.4
  51. 551Filmmakers for the ProsecutionMovie · 2023 · 91mIn 1945, American brothers Budd and Stuart Schulberg are assigned to gather film and audio evidence of Nazi atrocities for the Nuremberg trials (1945-46). The film recounts the creation of "Nuremberg: Its Lesson for Today," a significant historical documentary released in 1948.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.5
  52. 552Dark Glamour: The Blood and Guts of Hammer ProductionsMovie · 2017 · 55mThis is the story of Hammer Films, the leading force in British popular cinema from 1955 to 1968. Their films featured tormented women and brutal monsters in intense stories that challenged censorship and divided critics, yet captivated audiences. Hammer brought horror to the screen with unflinching depictions of fear, blood, sex, and memorable performances.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0
  53. 553Steve Backshall's Royal Arctic ChallengeMovie · 2025 · 91mFifty years after it happened, environmentalist Steve Backshall revisits Prince Charles's Arctic expedition as a young man, revealing significant shifts in the Earth's environment and highlighting the pressing need for immediate action.IMDb 6.3
  54. 554WatermanMovie · 2022 · 88mFive-time Olympic medalist Duke Kahanamoku revolutionized swimming and popularized surfing worldwide, despite facing personal hardships throughout his life. This film explores his remarkable journey and lasting impact as a legendary swimmer, pioneer, and the widely recognized father of modern surfing. It coincides with surfing's debut in this year's Summer Olympics, a tribute to his efforts in spreading the sport globally.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0
  55. 555Carol IMovie · 2009 · 90mThis film depicts the final months of Carol I, Romania's first king, in the summer of 1914. It focuses on the difficult choices he faces as he attempts to satisfy both the Romanian Parliament and his family in the German Empire.IMDb 6.7TMDB 8.2
  56. 556The Choice 2020: Trump vs. BidenMovie · 2020 · 114mThis film explores the formative experiences of Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden, examining their backgrounds and leadership styles. It details their origins and how they approach governing.TMDB 7.2
  57. 557The War That Never EndsMovie · 1991 · 70mThe Peloponnesian Wars, a twenty-seven-year conflict between Athens and Sparta, is recounted through news broadcast-style narratives delivered by figures like Thucydides and Plato.IMDb 7.7TMDB 1.0
  58. 558Dateline: SaigonMovie · 2017 · 96m"Dateline-Saigon" examines the reporting of five Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists – David Halberstam (The New York Times), Malcolm Browne (Associated Press), Peter Arnett, Horst Faas (photojournalist), and Neil Sheehan (UPI) – during the early years of the Vietnam War. The film chronicles how the United States became increasingly involved in the conflict, initially portrayed by some as a minor engagement. As President John F. Kennedy secretly increased troop deployments, the journalists found their role amplified when the government's narrative shifted. Halberstam observes that journalists gain critical importance when truth is obscured, twisted, or hidden by those in power.IMDb 8.9TMDB 8.0
  59. 5599/11: Inside the President's War RoomMovie · 2021 · 89m · Documentary, HistoryThis film recounts the events of September 11, 2001, as experienced by President George W. Bush and his inner circle. It details the critical hours and major choices made by the President and his advisors throughout that pivotal day in history.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.8
  60. 560Industrial Accident: The Story of Wax Trax! RecordsMovie · 2018 · 95mThis is the true story of a diverse group – punks, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those on the wrong side of the law – who find themselves on a journey with two men who inadvertently revolutionized music.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.9
  61. 561Patterns of Evidence: The Red Sea MiracleMovie · 2020 · 150mFilmmaker Timothy P. Mahoney investigates the Red Sea crossing, presenting two contrasting perspectives. The "Egyptian Approach" suggests the event occurred near Egypt, while the "Hebrew Approach" places it far from the coast, in the Gulf of Aqaba – a site where divers have sought the remains of Pharaoh's army. The film explores profound questions about the actual location of the crossing and how that impacts one's understanding of faith. Ultimately, the investigation leads to two distinct possibilities regarding the event's reality.IMDb 6.1TMDB 10.0
  62. 562Emmanuelle: Queen of French Erotic CinemaMovie · 2021 · 53mFrance, 1974. Just Jaeckin's erotic film *Emmanuelle* becomes a massive box office success, shattering records. The film tells the story of its creation, a sensual and influential work that significantly impacted the fight for sexual liberation.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6
  63. 563Heart of a Servant: The Father Flanagan StoryMovie · 2024 · 90mFather Edward J. Flanagan is best known to many Americans for the 1938 Oscar-winning film about his pioneering work with children. However, his influence and legacy extended globally, even to Germany and Japan. Throughout his life, Flanagan was respected by presidents, business leaders, and celebrities, but his greatest concern remained the well-being of the children he served. This became starkly apparent during World War II, as many former Boys Town residents enlisted. In fact, so many servicemen listed Flanagan as their next of kin that the American War Dads Association honored him as America’s top War Dad.IMDb 9.4
  64. 564Tesla: Master of LightningMovie · 2000 · 87mThis film explores the life of Nikola Tesla, the scientist, inventor, and visionary often portrayed as an oddity rather than a brilliant electrical engineer. Many of his groundbreaking accomplishments are still credited to Thomas Edison and Guglielmo Marconi. Tesla's remarkable inventions are brought to light through his own writings and scientific notes, combined with rare photographs and historical reconstructions.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6
  65. 565Prairie WomenMovie · 1987 · 45mThe film explores the challenges faced by women on the Canadian prairies as they fight for a fairer and more compassionate society within the farming community and beyond. In the early 1900s, these women sought connection and support, leading to the formation of powerful farm women's organizations. These groups fostered women with exceptional intelligence, strong social and cultural understanding, and progressive perspectives.
  66. 566Sex at 24 Frames Per SecondMovie · 2003 · 101mThis film explores how sex, women, and female sexuality have been portrayed in popular Hollywood culture, using Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield, Jean Harlow, and Sharon Stone as key examples.IMDb 6.2TMDB 4.9
  67. 567MenschMovie · 2025Ludwik Hirszfeld’s life mirrors the tumultuous first half of the 20th century. He was a doctor, scientist, and idealist who was repeatedly devastated by the events surrounding him, yet found the strength to rebuild. A renowned figure internationally but largely unknown in Poland, Hirszfeld was a scientist deeply affected by the world's divisions. He consistently chose a path of conscience, believing in the possibility of a better world. Despite opportunities to continue his career elsewhere, he remained in Poland. His experiences in the Warsaw Ghetto were profoundly tragic. Perhaps his most significant decision was his marriage to Hanna.
  68. 568Walt Disney World's 25th Anniversary PartyMovie · 1997 · 56mA celebration of the world's most enchanting destination marks its 25th year.IMDb 7.9TMDB 5.5
  69. 569The Plot to Kill HitlerMovie · 2023 · 40mJuly 20, 1944. Operation Valkyrie is in progress. A group of conspirators work urgently to alter history. Will their plan succeed, or will Adolf Hitler evade capture once more?IMDb 5.5TMDB 7.0
  70. 570The Pursuit of HappinessMovie · 1999 · 112m"In the 20th Century" is a series of feature-length documentaries where renowned directors explore subjects of their choosing. The fourth film, "The Pursuit of Happiness," directed by Robert Zemeckis, examines America's evolving relationship with mind-altering substances over the last century. It features interviews with historians and drug treatment professionals, alongside a collection of film and television clips illustrating the cultural impact of smoking, drinking, and drug use throughout the 20th century.IMDb 7.1
  71. 571Killer LegendsMovie · 2014 · 86m · Documentary, History, CrimeThis horror documentary explores the roots of our most frightening urban legends, examining the real-life events that may have sparked these stories.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.8
  72. 572MutinyMovie · 1999 · 50mThis film tells the story of WWI soldiers and the Black struggle for pride and freedom. Using firsthand accounts from veterans, official records, and historical photographs, the movie reveals the remarkable history of the British West Indies Regiment.IMDb 5.7
  73. 573Jerusalem CutsMovie · 2008 · 52mDuring ten days of war in Jerusalem, marking the beginning of a new Middle East, three stories unfold. For the British, it represents the disappointing end of their thirty-year mandate. For the Jewish people, it's the birth of their nation. And for the Palestinians, it’s a devastating loss. It is only now, sixty years later, that we can see images from all three perspectives, revealing a complete and fresh narrative.IMDb 7.4TMDB 8.0
  74. 574Ingrid Bergman: In Her Own WordsMovie · 2015 · 116m · Documentary, HistoryThis is a personal and compelling look at the remarkable life and career of Ingrid Bergman (1915-1982). A young woman from Sweden, she rose to become one of the most acclaimed actresses in film history.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
  75. 575The Case of Bruno LüdkeMovie · 2021 · 52mThis is the extraordinary story of Bruno Lüdke (1908-1944), who is said to be Germany's worst mass murderer. But the truth is a tale of fabricated documents and false reports, unfolding during the Third Reich's darkest days. As the totalitarian regime crumbles, the principles of justice become meaningless.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1
  76. 576All the Beauty and the BloodshedMovie · 2022 · 122m · DocumentaryThis film explores the life of Nan Goldin, the acclaimed artist and activist, using her iconic slideshows, personal interviews, and influential photography. It also features previously unseen footage documenting her determined efforts to challenge the Sackler family's role in the opioid crisis.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
  77. 577The Man Who Saved the WorldMovie · 2014 · 120m · Documentary, History, WarThe Man Who Saved the World is a documentary film about Stanislav Petrov, a retired lieutenant colonel in the Soviet Air Defence Forces.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.8
  78. 578McCarthyMovie · 2020 · 120m"McCarthy" tells the story of Joseph McCarthy, a Wisconsin senator who unexpectedly gained power. Once in office, he claimed a major conspiracy threatened America – not from a foreign nation, but from within the country itself. Unchecked, he launched a relentless campaign against those he accused of being enemies of the state, using baseless accusations, intimidation, and theatrical displays to victimize people. With his lawyer Roy Cohn, he attacked critics, spreading lies and fear. Eventually, his own actions led to his downfall. However, his name remains connected to the modern phenomenon of "McCarthyism."IMDb 7.7TMDB 8.0
  79. 579Decoding Saqqara, The Secret Hieroglyphs of the PyramidsMovie · 2020 · 52mAncient Egypt continues to captivate with its enduring mysteries. The Saqqara necropolis, located near Cairo, houses the Pyramid of Pharaoh Pepi II, a largely unknown treasure containing the largest collection of texts found in any pyramid. After 90 years, the International Archaeological Mission in Saqqara opens and deciphers this remarkable tomb for the first time. The pyramid's walls are covered in hieroglyphs, but what do they reveal? This documentary explores how to unlock the secrets of these over four-thousand-year-old texts. Employing cutting-edge technology like photogrammetry, endoscopes, and advanced imaging, the film blends live footage with expert interviews to delve into Saqqara's history and offer new perspectives on the pharaohs' tombs.IMDb 6.8TMDB 10.0
  80. 580Rise & Fall: The World Trade CenterMovie · 2021 · 86m"Rise & Fall: The World Trade Center" tells the inspiring story of the iconic Twin Towers, exploring the innovative architecture and engineering that made them possible. The buildings featured unique designs and numerous technical advancements, allowing them to become the world's tallest structures. The film examines whether these innovations played a role in their collapse on 9/11, using firsthand accounts, expert interviews, and new graphics to reveal how the Towers were built and why they fell.IMDb 7.6TMDB 5.0
  81. 581Free Angela and All Political PrisonersMovie · 2012 · 102mIn 1970, the social activism of Angela Davis, a young UCLA philosophy professor, led to her involvement in a failed kidnapping plot. The attempt resulted in a shootout, four deaths, and Davis being placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.1
  82. 582Ukraine on FireMovie · 2016 · 95m · Documentary, HistoryOliver Stone's film presents the Euromaidan protests and the removal of Viktor Yanukovych as a conspiracy orchestrated by the West, with Russian backing.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0
  83. 583Bataan RescueMovie · 2003 · 60mThe film recounts the story of 514 prisoners of war who endured the Bataan Death March and were rescued as the war neared its end. Their rescue was critical because the Japanese leadership planned to execute all prisoners as liberation seemed imminent. This necessitated a dangerous, secret mission deep behind enemy lines to reach them in time. The film features extensive interviews with those involved: surviving POWs, a Filipino partisan, members of the rescue team including their second-in-command, and historians.IMDb 7.3
  84. 584This Is Not a Movie: Robert Fisk and the Politics of TruthMovie · 2019 · 109mFor over forty years, British journalist Robert Fisk has covered many of the world's deadliest conflicts, from Northern Ireland to the Middle East. He has consistently reported from the ground, documenting war-torn areas and delivering factual reports to his media outlets, aiming to reach a global audience.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5
  85. 585Nice Girls Don't Stay for BreakfastMovie · 2019 · 97mIn the late 1990s, renowned photographer Bruce Weber persuaded the legendary Robert Mitchum to film himself casually with friends, sharing stories from his life and performing jazz standards.IMDb 6.5TMDB 4.6
  86. 586Sam Roma: We Are GypsiesMovie · 2014 · 40mRoma people are unique, their identity shaped by a history of travel and movement across continents. From India to Egypt, Sweden to Britain, these nomadic communities have been a consistent presence throughout human history, often existing on the fringes of society and legal norms.IMDb 6.7
  87. 587Rebel PopeMovie · 2016This film chronicles Pope Francis, exploring the factors behind his growing popularity and influence within the Catholic Church. It details the events that propelled him to power and the controversy sparked by his progressive views as he ascends to lead the world's largest and oldest religious institution.IMDb 7.9
  88. 588WWII From SpaceMovie · 2012 · 88m · Documentary, History, WarWWII from Space presents World War II with a unique perspective. This HISTORY special uses satellite imagery to show the conflict from above, providing a global view of key events. It recreates historical moments and illustrates how events unfolded simultaneously, revealing their far-reaching consequences. The special also highlights how the nation, which ranked 19th in military strength in 1939, became the world's only atomic superpower by 1945.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3
  89. 589The PaintingMovie · 2019 · 107mFor three and a half centuries, the meaning of Diego Velázquez's painting "Las Meninas" (1656) has remained a mystery. The painting is revealed as if it holds the solution to an intricate puzzle.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.5
  90. 590The Man Nobody Knew: In Search of My Father, CIA Spymaster William ColbyMovie · 2011 · 104mThis film offers a personal look at the life of a controversial former CIA Director, as seen through his wife and filmmaker son, Carl. Against the backdrop of pivotal 20th-century events, the film explores the life of this dedicated intelligence officer, who was deeply involved in the CIA's most secret operations. It reveals the hidden world of the Agency, focusing on the Director’s unwavering obedience to orders until President Nixon demanded he conceal the CIA’s past wrongdoings. The film explains why, for the first time, he refused to comply.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
  91. 591Reel InjunMovie · 2010 · 86m · Documentary, HistoryThis film explores how Native Americans have been portrayed in movies, tracing the changes from early silent films to contemporary stories. It examines how these cinematic representations have shaped audiences' understanding of Native American history and culture.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0
  92. 592Cinema NovoMovie · 2016 · 93mThis film explores a major movement in Brazilian cinema through the perspectives of its key figures. Emerging in the early 1960s, these filmmakers pioneered a politically charged approach to filmmaking, consistently focusing on the struggles of ordinary people. Their work uniquely blended artistic expression with revolutionary ideals.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7
  93. 593Carville: Winning Is Everything, StupidMovie · 2024 · 98mDemocratic strategist James Carville, known as the "Ragin' Cajun," has significantly shaped modern politics, from helping Bill Clinton win the 1992 election to his current involvement in the 2024 race. This film chronicles his remarkable career and his 30-year marriage to Republican consultant Mary Matalin. It includes interviews with Bill Clinton, George Stephanopoulos, and others.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.2
  94. 594Piotr MichałowskiMovie · 1989 · 52mThis film dramatizes the life of Romantic painter Piotr Michałowski.
  95. 595Freedom's FuryMovie · 2006 · 90mThis documentary chronicles the 1956 Olympic semifinal water polo game between Hungary and the Soviet Union, played in Australia. The match took place during the Soviet military crackdown on the Hungarian uprising in Budapest.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.5
  96. 596The Central Park FiveMovie · 2012 · 119m · DocumentaryIn 1989, five Black and Latino teenagers from Harlem were arrested and convicted of raping a white woman in New York City's Central Park. They served six to thirteen years in prison before a serial rapist confessed to the crime, overturning their convictions. Against a backdrop of a troubled city marked by violence and racial tension, the film recounts the horrific event, the police's hasty judgment, the media's demand for sensational stories, and the public's outrage – and the devastating impact on the five lives wrongly accused.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0
  97. 597Time of Darkness and SilenceMovie · 1982 · 60mThis film examines Leni Riefenstahl's controversial 1944 film "Tiefland," which employed Sinti people as extras under forced labor. Following the film's completion, these extras were deported to Auschwitz. Interviewing both survivors and those involved in the production, Nina Gladitz explores whether Riefenstahl was aware of their fate. Filmed between 1940 and 1944 but not released until 1954, "Tiefland" was the subject of a lawsuit by Riefenstahl against Gladitz, who made the documentary.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.0
  98. 598The Spy Who Fell to EarthMovie · 2019 · 94m · Documentary, History, MysteryThis documentary, based on Dr. Ahron Bregman's book, explores the life and puzzling death of Ashraf Marwan, an Egyptian billionaire who worked as a double agent.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7
  99. 599For No Good ReasonMovie · 2012 · 89m"For No Good Reason," a film about Ralph Steadman, features Johnny Depp as he guides a visually striking exploration of the artist's life. The film breaks traditional storytelling formats, blending interviews with animation in the style of Gonzo journalism to question the nature of truth and observation. Steadman's artwork is animated for the first time, including illustrations from Hunter S Thompson’s "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas." Starring Richard E Grant, Terry Gilliam, and Bruce Robinson, and with music by Slash, The All American Rejects, Jason Mraz, Crystal Castles, Ed Hardcourt, and Beth Orton, the film is a moving and often humorous look at honesty, friendship, and the drive behind an artist. It captures the decline of 20th-century counterculture and the hipster ideal, with Ralph Steadman as the final voice of the Gonzo visionaries.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
  100. 600Elvis and the USS ArizonaMovie · 2021 · 58mThis is the unexpected story of how a major music star played a key role in creating the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor. Elvis Presley's benefit concert brought widespread attention to the memorial's construction, boosting public support and helping to complete it as a lasting tribute.IMDb 7.4