372 Oscar Best Documentary Feature Films
371 titles
- 1
AmyMovie · 2015 · 128m · Documentary, MusicThis documentary chronicles the life of Amy Winehouse, a supremely gifted singer whose career was tragically cut short. It follows her journey from adolescence, where her vocal talent was evident, through her rise to fame and subsequent struggles with alcohol and drug addiction.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 2
The Anderson PlatoonMovie · 1967 · 65mPierre Schoendoerffer's documentary film offers a look at the Vietnam War. It was recognized with the 1968 Academy Award for Best Documentary.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 3
Tupac: ResurrectionMovie · 2003 · 112m · Music, DocumentaryThe film uses home movies, photographs, and poetry readings to explore the life of Tupac Shakur, a highly admired, influential, and often turbulent figure in hip-hop music.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.9 - 4
Suzanne Farrell: Elusive MuseMovie · 1996 · 105mA teenage girl from Ohio joined the New York City Ballet and deeply influenced the renowned Mr. B, inspiring his most important ballets and sparking a passionate, complicated love triangle reminiscent of "The Red Shoes." In Anne Belle and Deborah Dickson's personal look at her remarkable life, the greatest ballerina of her era reflects on her career, bringing to light both her incredible successes and the drama behind the scenes.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.3 - 5
Taxi to the Dark SideMovie · 2008 · 106m · DocumentaryThis film examines the interrogation methods employed by the United States in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay, with a central focus on the case of an Afghan taxi driver who was tortured and killed in 2002.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 6
Deliver Us from EvilMovie · 2006 · 101m · Crime, DocumentaryDocumentary filmmaker Amy Berg examines the life of Father Oliver O'Grady, a 30-year-old pedophile. The film reveals the corruption within the Catholic Church that enabled his abuse of numerous children. Through victims' accounts and a revealing interview with O'Grady himself, the documentary explores the troubled mind of the priest who gained the trust of many while secretly betraying them by moving from parish to parish.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.1 - 7
Scared Straight!Movie · 1978 · 52mThis film documents a program where incarcerated individuals share their experiences of prison with at-risk youth. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2007.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 8
Sound and FuryMovie · 2000 · 80mThis 2000 documentary film explores the differing perspectives of two American families raising young deaf children. The central conflict revolves around the decision of whether or not to pursue cochlear implants – surgically implanted devices intended to enhance hearing. This choice raises questions about the potential benefits of improved hearing versus the possible impact on the children's deaf identity.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.1 - 9
The Salt of the EarthMovie · 2014 · 110m · DocumentaryFor forty years, photographer Sebastião Salgado has journeyed across the globe, documenting humanity's evolving story. He has captured pivotal moments in recent history – conflicts, famines, and migrations. Now, he turns his lens to untouched landscapes, showcasing wild animals, plants, and breathtaking scenery in a monumental project celebrating the Earth's beauty. His son, Juliano, accompanied him on these final expeditions, and acclaimed photographer Wim Wenders offers an intimate look at Salgado's life and work.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.1 - 10
The Story of the Weeping CamelMovie · 2004 · 91m · Documentary, DramaA Mongolian family faces hardship when their new camel colt is rejected by its mother. To resolve this, they seek the help of a musician who performs a ritual intended to persuade the mother to accept her offspring.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 11
The Olympics in MexicoMovie · 1969 · 160mThis documentary chronicles the 1968 Olympic Games held in Mexico City. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment in 1999.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.7 - 12
The Fighting LadyMovie · 1944 · 61mDirected by Oscar winner William Wyler and narrated by Lieutenant Robert Taylor, USNR (Bataan), this 1944 newsreel-style film documents the U.S. Navy's operations in the Pacific during 1943. Shot in combat zones by Navy photographers, the movie follows the aircraft carrier THE FIGHTING LADY as it participates in attacks against Japanese forces, culminating in an assault on the Japanese base on Marcus Island. Preserved with support from the Academy Film Archive and The Film Foundation.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.2 - 13
MarleneMovie · 1984 · 94mThis film looks back at the life and work of Marlene Dietrich, a legendary and often mysterious actress.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0 - 14
StreetwiseMovie · 1984 · 91m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines the difficult lives of homeless teenagers in Seattle, who often fall through the cracks of existing support systems. Forced to survive on their own, these young people resort to panhandling, prostitution, and theft. The film offers an intimate look into the experiences of nine teenagers, revealing the harsh realities they face and their strength in overcoming adversity. It highlights the urgent need for solutions to help these vulnerable youth.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.5 - 15
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 - 16
The Living DesertMovie · 1953 · 69m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the surprisingly lively world of the desert, challenging the idea that it's a lifeless place. It reveals fascinating natural events like rocks moving in patterns, mud pots erupting with lava-like flows, and unusual flowers thriving in the harsh conditions. The film also highlights the remarkable strength of desert animals and how they've adapted to survive in a challenging environment with limited resources and predators. Using stunning visuals and expert commentary, the documentary offers a new appreciation for the dynamic beauty of these often-misunderstood ecosystems.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 17
All 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 - 18
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 - 19
My Octopus TeacherMovie · 2020 · 85m · DocumentaryFor years, Craig Foster swam daily in the frigid waters off the coast of Africa. There, he encounters an unusual companion: a young octopus with a keen interest in him. Over months of visiting her home and observing her, Craig earns the octopus's trust, forging an unprecedented connection between a human and a wild animal.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9 - 20
Four DaughtersMovie · 2023 · 108m · Documentary, DramaOlfa, a Tunisian mother of four, navigates life between hope and hardship. When two of her daughters vanish, filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania creates an innovative cinematic experience. She casts actresses to portray the missing girls, offering a glimpse into Olfa's world and the lives of her daughters. This intimate film explores themes of hope, defiance, violence, family bonds, and sisterhood, prompting reflection on societal norms.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.5 - 21
Food, Inc.Movie · 2008 · 94m · DocumentaryDocumentary filmmaker Robert Kenner explores how large corporations now control every part of the American food system, from farming to restaurants and supermarkets. Narrated by Eric Schlosser, the film includes interviews with ordinary Americans about what they eat, insights from food experts like Michael Pollan, and disturbing footage from inside major meatpacking facilities.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 22
Burma VJ: Reporting from a Closed CountryMovie · 2008 · 84m · DocumentaryAcclaimed filmmaker Anders Østergaard offers an intimate look at the video journalists risking everything to report from Burma. Facing potential torture and imprisonment, these brave young people embody the core of journalism by relentlessly providing news from a country tightly controlled by its government.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2 - 23
My Architect: A Son's JourneyMovie · 2003 · 116mRenowned architect Louis Kahn, celebrated for iconic buildings like the Exeter Library and Salk Institute, fathered two children with women other than his wife. His son, Nathaniel, always dreamed of his father joining them. However, Kahn remained with his wife. Tragically, Nathaniel's father died in a Penn Station restroom when he was just eleven years old.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 24
Bobi Wine: The People's PresidentMovie · 2023 · 113m · DocumentaryWith a very young population and an authoritarian government, Uganda is ripe for change. Musician and Member of Parliament Bobi Wine and his wife Barbie Kyagulanyi are leading the charge. Bobi's presidential campaign ignites hope among the country's youth, who gather in massive crowds to hear his messages of peace and freedom. However, this sparks a brutal crackdown by Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for 36 years. Bobi and his supporters face arrests, violence, torture, riots, and raids as they fight for their vision.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 25
Kokoda Front Line!Movie · 1942 · 9mThis acclaimed, Academy Award-winning newsreel features some of the most familiar images of Australian soldiers during World War II.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.2 - 26
Moscow Strikes BackMovie · 1942 · 55mThis Soviet documentary recounts the Battle of Moscow (October 1941 – January 1942), where the Red Army successfully defended the city against the German advance. Filmed by many cameramen on the front lines, it presents intense footage of combat and hardship faced by civilians, alongside depictions of Nazi brutality. The film emphasizes Russian heroism and the preservation of their culture. Originally titled *Defeat of the German Armies Near Moscow*, the English version, narrated by Edward G. Robinson, is called *Moscow Strikes Back*. It received the 1943 Academy Award for Best Documentary. Viewer discretion advised due to graphic content.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.5 - 27
Desert VictoryMovie · 1943 · 60mThe film depicts the Allied campaign to expel German and Italian forces from North Africa, a landscape described by narrator J. L. Hodson as a desolate place where war was inevitable: "If war was to be fought then let it begin here." Set across vast, barren deserts with few civilians, the movie focuses primarily on the battles of El Alamein, featuring some recreated scenes. It was awarded "Best Documentary Feature" at the 16th Academy Awards in 1944.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0 - 28
Anne Frank RememberedMovie · 1995 · 117mThis Academy Award-winning documentary uses newly discovered archival footage and interviews with people who knew her to tell the story of Anne Frank. It offers the first complete look at Anne, a spirited young woman who became one of the most well-known victims of the Holocaust.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.7 - 29
Baptism of FireMovie · 1943 · 36mBaptism of Fire is a 1943 American documentary originally intended as an Army training film. It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.0 - 30
World Without SunMovie · 1964 · 93mThis captivating underwater documentary captures footage filmed by the Cousteau family of sea explorers. The film was primarily shot in deep seas using a specially designed batiscaff and hand-held cameras deployed by frogmen. It was preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2010.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.4 - 31
LegacyMovie · 2000 · 90mThis is a powerful story about a family's hard-won escape from poverty and hardship. Narrated by Nickcole Collins, a remarkably insightful teenager, the film follows the Collins family for five years as they gradually overcome poverty, drug addiction, and violence within their Chicago public housing community.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.2 - 32
From Mao to Mozart: Isaac Stern in ChinaMovie · 1981 · 84mThis film tells the story of two cultures connecting through the efforts of a renowned musician and humanitarian. In 1979, with China beginning to open to the world, celebrated violinist Isaac Stern was given a special invitation by the Chinese government to tour the nation.IMDb 7.4TMDB 5.7 - 33
Super Size MeMovie · 2004 · 100m · DocumentaryFor 30 days, Morgan Spurlock eats nothing but McDonald's – three meals a day, no exercise – to investigate the link between fast food and America's rising rates of obesity. He undergoes regular medical check-ups with three doctors, documenting his weight changes throughout the experiment, ultimately reaching a disturbing conclusion.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 34
The CaveMovie · 2019 · 107m · DocumentaryIn Syria's Ghouta province, a dedicated team of female doctors runs a hidden field hospital. Led by pediatrician Dr. Amani, they provide vital care to the countless children and civilians affected by the brutal Syrian civil war, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the devastation.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 35
Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime ExperienceMovie · 2007 · 81mThis documentary offers a distinctive look at the experiences of American troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. It draws directly from the writings of soldiers, Marines, and airmen who served there.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 36
Best BoyMovie · 1979 · 111mThis documentary chronicles the daily life of Philly, the director's middle-aged cousin with intellectual disabilities, over a three-year span.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.4 - 37
The Grain That Built a HemisphereMovie · 1943 · 11mThis animated documentary explores the history and significance of corn in North America.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.3 - 38
The New SpiritMovie · 1942 · 7mThis animated documentary uses Donald Duck's struggles to illustrate the importance of filing and paying Federal income taxes on time.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.7 - 39
Murder on a Sunday MorningMovie · 2001 · 111m · Crime, DocumentaryThis 2001 French documentary chronicles the murder trial of a 15-year-old Black teen in Jacksonville, Florida. The film won the 2002 Academy Award for Best Documentary.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 40
If a Tree Falls: A Story of the Earth Liberation FrontMovie · 2011 · 85m · Documentary, Crime, HistoryFilmmaker Marshall Curry examines the Earth Liberation Front, a radical group dedicated to disrupting facilities linked to deforestation. The film also profiles Daniel McGowan, an Oregon ELF member who faced terrorism charges due to his activism with the organization.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5 - 41
5 Broken CamerasMovie · 2011 · 90m · War, DocumentaryFive broken cameras hold powerful stories. These cameras, found among the damaged remains of digital technology, reveal the experiences of Emad Burnat, a Palestinian farmer from the village of Bil’in. Bil’in became known for its peaceful resistance against the Israeli army's expansion into the village, which aimed to create space for Jewish colonists. Emad bought his first camera in 2005 to document the birth of his fourth son, Gibreel. The film follows him as he becomes the quiet recorder of a growing conflict: olive trees are destroyed, lives are lost, and a wall is constructed to divide Israeli settlements.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 42
Capturing the FriedmansMovie · 2003 · 107m · Documentary, CrimeThis Oscar-nominated documentary examines the devastating story of a middle-class American family fractured by accusations of child sexual abuse against the father, Arnold, and son, Jesse. Director Jarecki interviews individuals connected to the case, exploring the question of whether their trials were just, given their claims of innocence and the lack of concrete evidence.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 43
The Look of SilenceMovie · 2014 · 100m · History, DocumentaryA man who works as an optician confronts the brutal Indonesian mass killings of 1965-1966, a period that saw the death of his own brother.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8 - 44
MansonMovie · 1973 · 83mIn a courtroom setting, prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi interviews Lynette Fromme, Mary Brunner, and Sandra Good, three members of the Manson "family," regarding the Tate-LaBianca murders.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 45
WoodstockMovie · 1970 · 225m · Documentary, History, MusicThis film offers a detailed look at the legendary Woodstock Music & Art Festival in Bethel, New York, in August 1969. With rare access to those involved and extensive concert footage, it shows the excitement and difficulties experienced by the festival's organizers, musicians, and attendees. The movie presents an honest view of the event, covering various aspects like drug use among performers, nudity, and the muddy conditions faced by the crowd. It also examines the logistical problems caused by the unexpected arrival of half a million people, and the unusual scene when National Guard helicopters brought food and medical aid. The film provides insight into a pivotal cultural moment and its lasting influence on music and counterculture.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.5 - 46
SpellboundMovie · 2002 · 97m · DocumentaryThe film chronicles the journey of eight young competitors, aged 8 to 18, as they strive to reach the final round of the Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee in Washington D.C.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 47
Waco: The Rules of EngagementMovie · 1997 · 136m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines the Waco siege, one of the most tragic confrontations between law enforcement and a religious group in recent history. Using archival footage and recorded conversations, the film explores the events leading to April 19, 1993. It analyzes how the FBI's rigid tactics escalated a difficult situation into a devastating outcome for everyone involved. The documentary examines the Branch Davidian sect and raises questions about law enforcement approaches to dealing with isolated communities. By carefully reconstructing those events, the film provides an in-depth look at the tensions that ultimately resulted in the Waco tragedy.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 48
13thMovie · 2016 · 100m · DocumentaryThis film examines the American prison system, revealing how it reflects the country's ongoing history of racial inequality.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9 - 49
One Day in SeptemberMovie · 1999 · 94m · Documentary, HistoryThis documentary recounts the tragic 1972 Munich Olympics Massacre, using archival footage and interviews. It details the abduction of Israeli athletes by Palestinian terrorists, highlighting the insufficient police response and the denial of Israeli aid. The film also examines Israel's subsequent retaliation operation, 'Wrath of God,' aimed at punishing those responsible. By combining historical context with firsthand perspectives from those involved, the documentary provides a compelling look at this devastating event in Olympic history and its enduring impact.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 50
Winged MigrationMovie · 2001 · 89m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the incredible journeys of different migratory bird species as they travel from their breeding grounds in the north to the equator and back, covering thousands of miles guided by the stars. These difficult trips are essential for finding suitable climates and food. The birds encounter many dangers, like crossing oceans and avoiding predators, disease, and injury. While they migrate together in large groups, they break into family units once they arrive. These migrations impact every continent, which hosts migratory birds for at least part of the year.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 51Tell the Truth and Run: George Seldes and the American PressMovie · 1996 · 111mThis documentary explores the 80-year career of journalist George Seldes, focusing on his interactions with Lenin and J. Edgar Hoover, his persistent fight against censorship and powerful interests like the tobacco lobby, and his eventual blacklisting. Featuring interviews with Ben Bagdikian, Jeff Cohen, Daniel Ellsberg, Ralph Nader, and Marian Seldes.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.7
- 52
Prisoner of ParadiseMovie · 2003 · 96mThis film recounts the true story of Kurt Gerron, a German-Jewish cabaret and film actor active in the 1920s and 1930s. He was imprisoned in the Theresienstadt concentration camp and forced by the Nazis to write and direct a propaganda film for their benefit.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.3 - 53
Serengeti Shall Not DieMovie · 1959 · 85mThe film chronicles the early days of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. In the late 1950s, the Tanzanian National Park Administration sought to establish a boundary for the protected area surrounding the Ngorongoro Crater. Bernhard and Michael Grzimek were commissioned in 1957 to assess animal migrations and provide the necessary data for the project. Employing a novel aerial counting technique with two airplanes, the Grzimeks discovered that herd migration patterns differed from previous estimates.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.2 - 54LaLee's Kin: The Legacy of CottonMovie · 2001 · 89m"LaLee's Kin" is a poignant documentary that reveals the severe poverty affecting an African-American family and their Mississippi Delta school district. The film intimately follows LaLee Wallace, a great-grandmother battling hardship, and Reggie Barnes, the superintendent of the struggling West Tallahatchie School System. It examines the enduring impact of slavery and sharecropping on the Delta region.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.0
- 55
Cuban RaftersMovie · 2002 · 120mThis film tells the story of Cuban refugees who braved perilous journeys on makeshift rafts to reach the United States, and explores the realities they face upon arrival.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.3 - 56
Why We Fight: The Battle of RussiaMovie · 1943 · 83m · Documentary, WarThe fifth film in Frank Capra's 'Why We Fight' series examines the complicated relationship and conflict between the Soviet Union and Germany during World War II. The movie explores the forces behind this major struggle and the strategies used by both sides to gain control. Combining historical information with clear storytelling, it offers a detailed look at this important period, covering nationalism, ideology, and the war's impact. The film provides new insights into how power, politics, and human nature shaped the course of history.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 57
War Department ReportMovie · 1943 · 47mIn 1944, the Office of Strategic Services released its first official War Department report. It utilized American newsreel footage alongside captured enemy films to examine key aspects of the war. The report covers the aftermath of the Gran Sasso incident, the extent of Japan's occupied territories, Germany's military strength and resources, U.S. military supply operations, and battle strategies. The Academy Film Archive preserved this report in 2012.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0 - 58
The Betrayal (Nerakhoon)Movie · 2008 · 96mThis moving documentary, co-directed by Ellen Kuras and featuring Thavisouk Phrasavath, follows a refugee family's challenging journey from Laos to New York. Fleeing the aftermath of the US secret war, they face new struggles navigating life in Brooklyn. Filmed over 23 years, THE BETRAYAL offers a powerful and visually compelling exploration of how political events profoundly impact individual lives.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 59
The California ReichMovie · 1975 · 55mThis documentary explores the origins of Nazism in the United States.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.1 - 60
War DanceMovie · 2007 · 105mIn a northern Uganda refugee camp, three children prepare for their nation's annual music and dance competition.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2 - 61
Cutie and the BoxerMovie · 2013 · 81m · DocumentaryThis honest New York story follows the turbulent 40-year marriage of Ushio Shinohara, a renowned boxing painter, and his wife, Noriko. Seeking independence from her husband's controlling presence, Noriko begins to discover who she is as an individual.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 62
Dirty WarsMovie · 2013 · 87m · Documentary, Drama, CrimeJournalist Jeremy Scahill begins investigating the secret expansion of American covert wars. His reporting reveals the US government's response to international terrorism appears to disregard established laws.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 63
The Ten-Year LunchMovie · 1987 · 56mThis is the story of the brilliant and witty group who gathered for lunch every day at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City during the 1920s. The central members of this famous group, known as the Round Table, were Dorothy Parker, a writer of short stories and poetry; Robert Benchley, a comic actor and writer; Harold Ross, the founder of The New Yorker magazine; Heywood Broun, a columnist and social reformer; Alexander Woollcott, a critic; and playwrights George S. Kaufman, Marc Connelly, Edna Ferber, and Robert Sherwood.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 64
Hale County This Morning, This EveningMovie · 2018 · 76m · DocumentaryThis film presents a series of intimate glimpses into the lives of people within a community, offering a deeply felt impression of the Historic South. It explores both the beauty of life there and the impact of racial structures, while also celebrating the power of dreams.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.0 - 65
Of Fathers and SonsMovie · 2017 · 99m · Documentary, WarTalal Derki returns to his native land and earns the trust of a radical Islamist family, documenting their lives for more than two years. His camera centers on Osama and his younger brother Ayman, offering an exceptionally rare look at what it's like to grow up within an Islamic Caliphate.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 66
20 Feet from StardomMovie · 2013 · 89m · Documentary, MusicThe backup singers of the music industry exist in the shadows of fame. They provide the harmonies for the biggest names in pop, but their lives have remained hidden. This film reveals the untold stories of these singers and the world they inhabit.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 67
Africa, Prelude to VictoryMovie · 1942 · 18mThis film details the American role in planning and carrying out the major Allied military operation in North Africa.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.5 - 68
Combat ReportMovie · 1942 · 9mThis 1942 Oscar-nominated documentary details the intricate process of building and equipping a bomber, following its rapid preparation for a mission against a German submarine.IMDb 5.4TMDB 6.0 - 69
Conquer by the ClockMovie · 1942 · 10m"Conquer by the Clock," a 1942 propaganda film by RKO Pathé, aimed to boost wartime industrial output. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature in 1943.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.5 - 70
Henry Browne, FarmerMovie · 1942 · 11mThis film profiles Henry Browne, an African American farmer, and his family. It highlights the vital work of farmers during wartime, focusing on their efforts cultivating peanuts and cotton. The film’s impact deepens when the family visits their eldest son, a cadet in the 99th Pursuit Squadron.IMDb 5.0TMDB 5.3 - 71
Soldiers in HidingMovie · 1984 · 53mThis film follows a group of Vietnam War veterans who have chosen to live in isolation in the wilderness. Unable to readjust to civilian life due to the enduring psychological effects of the war, these men have deliberately built lives of self-sufficiency and solitude away from society.IMDb 7.6TMDB 5.6 - 72
High Over the BordersMovie · 1942 · 23mThis short documentary follows thousands of wild birds as they undertake their incredible twice-yearly migrations, traveling vast distances across borders.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 73
High Stakes in the EastMovie · 1942 · 10mFollowing the Allied loss at the Battle of Java and the subsequent Japanese occupation of the island, this propaganda film for American audiences depicts the extent of those losses.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.2 - 74
When We Were KingsMovie · 1996 · 89m · Documentary, TV Movie, HistoryIn 1974, at 32, Muhammad Ali challenges the reigning heavyweight champion George Foreman in the "Rumble in the Jungle," a highly anticipated fight with a $5 million purse for each boxer. Promoter Don King arranges the match, securing funding from Zaire's dictator Mobutu Sese Seko, who hopes to use the event to promote his country. King also stages a musical festival featuring artists like James Brown and B.B. King, creating a unique blend of sport and entertainment amidst global politics. The film explores the rivalry between Ali and Foreman, as well as King's ambitions and the atmosphere surrounding this important moment in boxing history.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 75
Inside Fighting ChinaMovie · 1942 · 22mThis 1942 newsreel chronicles China's struggle against Japanese aggression during wartime.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.0 - 76
It's Everybody's WarMovie · 1942 · 18mA documentary film made during World War II to encourage more Americans to join the war effort.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.7 - 77
SickoMovie · 2007 · 123m · Documentary, Comedy, DramaThis documentary exposes the profit-driven flaws within the U.S. healthcare system, revealing how financial gain is prioritized over patient well-being. The core business model of American healthcare providers relies on denying coverage to maximize profits: "The more people you deny health insurance, the more money we make."IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4 - 78
Little BelgiumMovie · 1942 · 10mThis film explores the lives of over 2,000 Belgian refugees who sought shelter in the fishing port of Brixham. It offers a detailed look at their experiences.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.8 - 79
Little Isles of FreedomMovie · 1942 · 19mThis 1942 Oscar-nominated documentary chronicles life in the remote, wartime islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Presented as part of the Broadway Brevities series.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 80
Freedom on My MindMovie · 1994 · 109mThis film chronicles the Mississippi voter registration drive from 1961 to 1964.IMDb 7.9TMDB 6.9 - 81
Mr. Gardenia JonesMovie · 1942 · 13mThis short documentary film shows how the United Service Organizations (USO) supports American troops by offering entertainment and activities to improve their spirits.IMDb 4.7TMDB 4.7 - 82
The Price of VictoryMovie · 1942 · 14mIn the early years of World War II, U.S. Vice-President Henry Wallace delivers a patriotic, propaganda short film intended to uplift public spirits.IMDb 4.3TMDB 6.0 - 83
A Ship Is BornMovie · 1942 · 22mThis Technicolor film (production number 8001) chronicles the efforts to build and operate the United States Merchant Marine during World War Two. It details the vital role this service played in supplying the American war effort against the Axis powers.IMDb 5.5TMDB 4.7 - 84
How to Survive a PlagueMovie · 2012 · 109m · Documentary, HistoryThis is the story of two activist groups, ACT UP and TAG, who revolutionized the fight against AIDS. Through innovative activism, they transformed a deadly disease into something manageable. Without medical backgrounds, these determined individuals challenged the pharmaceutical industry, helping to fast-track promising new drugs from testing to patients.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.8 - 85
Fire at SeaMovie · 2016 · 114m · DocumentaryThe film documents life on Lampedusa, an Italian island directly impacted by the European migrant crisis.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 86
The Invisible WarMovie · 2012 · 93m · Documentary, War, CrimeThis documentary is a powerful investigation into the widespread issue of sexual assault within the U.S. military. It examines the systems that enable and conceal these crimes, and explores the devastating impact on individuals and society as a whole.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 87
Twenty-One MilesMovie · 1942 · 11mThis short documentary explores the lives of people living in Dover, Kent, during World War II. It shows how the residents prepared to defend themselves against the Nazi war effort, which was only 21 miles away.IMDb 5.1TMDB 6.5 - 88
We Refuse to DieMovie · 1942 · 14mA 1942 Academy Award-nominated documentary film.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 89
The White EagleMovie · 1942 · 27mThis Oscar-nominated documentary explores the lives of Polish refugees who fled Poland during World War II and found refuge in the UK. It tells the stories of both civilians and soldiers who sought safety there.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.5 - 90
The SquareMovie · 2013 · 88m · Documentary, Drama, History*The Square* examines the daily struggles of Egyptians striving to establish a new democracy. The film centers on Cairo's Tahrir Square, following several young activists who believe the fight for democracy truly began after Hosni Mubarak's ouster. Driven by their principles, resilience, creativity, social media, and unwavering resolve, they navigate a perilous conflict between the people and the authority of the state.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 91
Chile: Hasta Cuando?Movie · 1986 · 57mDavid Bradbury's three-month visit to Chile in 1985 documents the harsh reality of the Pinochet military dictatorship. The footage portrays a nation deeply divided by conflict and political turmoil, where the military routinely intimidated civilians. Indiscriminate arrests, murder, torture, and disappearances were commonplace aspects of life in Chile at the time.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.7 - 92
Complaints of a Dutiful DaughterMovie · 1994 · 44mThis Academy Award-nominated film transforms a deeply personal story into something universally relatable, blending insightful observations with humor. It follows Deborah Hoffmann as she navigates her mother’s progression through Alzheimer's disease, exploring the enduring bond between mother and daughter, and the strength of familial love.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.0 - 93
EverymanMovie · 1963 · 90mBert Haanstra offers a distinctive look at the Netherlands and its people. Using hidden cameras, he captures everyday moments across a wide range of settings, revealing the extraordinary within the ordinary and vice versa. Following the difficult post-war rebuilding period, life has improved for most.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0 - 94
For Better or for WorseMovie · 1993 · 57mThis film examines the lives and relationships of five couples who have been married for fifty years or more. The couples share the challenges that shape enduring partnerships, recalling moments from their history together: spontaneous jazz nights at home, a trip to the Gay Pride parade in New York, and adventures in Northern California's countryside.IMDb 7.1 - 95
Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)Movie · 2021 · 117m · Music, Documentary, HistoryThe summer of Woodstock also saw the Harlem Cultural Festival, where over 300,000 people gathered to celebrate African American music and culture, fostering Black pride and unity. Footage of this remarkable event remained hidden in storage for over 50 years, obscuring its place in American history—until now.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6 - 96
A House Made of SplintersMovie · 2023 · 87m · DocumentaryIn eastern Ukraine, a small team of social workers runs a temporary home for abandoned children near the front lines, offering comfort and safety. The house is simple, but filled with love, providing refuge for up to nine months while the children's futures are decided. During this time, the caretakers work to create a sense of stability and normalcy for the children.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 97
Union MaidsMovie · 1976 · 51mThis film features three women who were labor activists in America during the 1930s, sharing their experiences with organizing.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 98
I Was a Communist for the FBIMovie · 1951 · 83mThis is the true story of a man who spent years undercover, posing as an American Communist. He was part of a covert operation designed to infiltrate and expose the organization.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.3 - 99
Writing with FireMovie · 2021 · 92mIn a male-dominated news industry, India's only newspaper run entirely by Dalit women is making waves. Using smartphones, Chief Reporter Meera and her team challenge conventions and report on India's most pressing issues, both in the public sphere and within their own communities, proving a new kind of strength.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 100
American DreamMovie · 1990 · 98mIn a year of record profits, workers at the Hormel meatpacking plant in Austin, Minnesota, are asked to accept significant pay cuts. The local labor union responds with a strike, fighting for what they consider fair wages. As the strike continues and strikers face financial hardship, relationships fracture – friendships dissolve, families are torn apart, and the town's future hangs in the balance.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3
