W2TCH

47 Essential Documentaries of the Decade

46 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 1Manda Bala (Send a Bullet)Movie · 2007 · 85mManda Bala (Send a Bullet) is a documentary that unflinchingly explores the cycles of violence affecting Brazil's wealthy and poor, driven by widespread corruption and kidnappings. The film uses personal stories to illustrate how these cycles are shaped by Brazil's significant economic inequalities.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.2
  2. 2Kurt Cobain: About a SonMovie · 2007 · 97m · Documentary, MusicThis intimate and moving film explores the life of Kurt Cobain, drawing on over 25 hours of previously unreleased audio interviews he gave to music journalist Michael Azerrad for his book, "Come As You Are: The Story of Nirvana." In the film, Cobain reflects on his life, from childhood through his musical journey and the whirlwind of fame. He offers revealing insights into his art, his experiences, and the era he lived in. These never-before-public conversations provide a deeply personal look at a complex artist, offering a fresh understanding of a figure widely known but rarely truly understood.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9
  3. 3HelveticaMovie · 2007 · 80m · DocumentaryHelvetica is a documentary film exploring typography, graphic design, and how visual culture shapes our world. It examines the widespread use of the Helvetica typeface – celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2007 – as a lens through which to understand type's impact on daily life. The film journeys through urban environments, showcasing the typography found in major cities, and features conversations with leading designers about their work, creative approaches, and the aesthetic decisions behind their use of type.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2
  4. 49/11Movie · 2002 · 128mThis documentary recounts the events of September 11, 2001, from the perspective of two French filmmakers who were on location to film a movie about a new firefighter in New York City. Their film unexpectedly captured the unfolding tragedy that profoundly altered the course of history.Stream onIMDb 8.5TMDB 7.9
  5. 5Hell HouseMovie · 2001 · 85m · DocumentaryThis film examines the annual "Hell House" production, presented each October by young members of Trinity Church (Assemblies of God) in Cedar Hill, Texas, a suburb of Dallas. The event draws over 10,000 visitors annually.Stream onIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.2
  6. 6Paradise Lost 2: RevelationsMovie · 2000 · 130m · Documentary, CrimeThis film revisits the 1994 murders of three eight-year-old boys in Arkansas and the subsequent trial of three teenagers convicted of the crime. A follow-up to *Paradise Lost*, *Revelations* includes new interviews with the convicted men, as well as with the original judge and police investigators involved in the case.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2
  7. 7Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples TempleMovie · 2006 · 86m · Documentary, History, TV MovieThis documentary presents previously unseen footage offering a stark examination of the Peoples Temple, led by Jim Jones. In 1978, Jones guided over 900 followers to Guyana, where he commanded a mass suicide using poisoned drink.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.1
  8. 8RankMovie · 2006 · 90mOver seven days in Las Vegas, Nevada, forty-five finalists compete for one title: PBR World Champion. Rank follows three top contenders – Justin McBride, a third-generation bull rider; Mike Lee, a 21-year-old born-again Christian; and Adriano Moraes, a 34-year-old Brazilian and two-time champion nearing the end of his career. The documentary reveals the demanding reality of professional bull riding, from rigorous preparation and potential injuries to the ultimate prize: a gold belt buckle and a million-dollar check.IMDb 6.8
  9. 9The CoveMovie · 2009 · 92m · Documentary"The Cove" recounts the remarkable true story of a dedicated team of filmmakers and freedivers who secretly entered a secluded cove in Japan to expose a disturbing and dangerous truth. Their startling findings revealed a much larger, more troubling reality.Stream onIMDb 8.4TMDB 7.9
  10. 10Billy the KidMovie · 2007 · 84mIn Jennifer Venditti's thought-provoking coming-of-age story, 15-year-old Billy describes himself as simply "different in the mind." The film follows Billy as he cycles through the quiet streets of a Maine town, navigating the challenges of bridging his vivid imagination with reality, and experiencing isolation and his first romantic feelings. Through Billy's perspective, we witness both the excitement and discomfort of being an unconventional individual.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.3
  11. 11Best Worst MovieMovie · 2009 · 93m · Documentary, ComedyThis is a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the movie *Troll 2* (1990), charting its path from being widely considered one of the worst films ever made to achieving a devoted following as a beloved cult classic.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
  12. 12The BridgeMovie · 2006 · 93m · Documentary"The Bridge" is a challenging documentary film featuring footage of individuals choosing to end their lives by jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge, a location with a high rate of suicides. The film includes interviews with family members and friends of those who died, offering insights into their lives and struggles with mental health.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  13. 13The King of Kong: A Fistful of QuartersMovie · 2007 · 83m · DocumentaryA quiet arcade champion faces off against the legendary Donkey Kong world record holder in an epic gaming battle that captures the attention of the entire industry. For two decades, Billy Mitchell has held the top score, considered unbeatable. But Steve Wiebe appears and claims to have surpassed him. Mitchell refuses to lose his title, and the two compete fiercely for the ultimate recognition as the true King of Kong.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7
  14. 14Metallica: Some Kind of MonsterMovie · 2004 · 141m · Documentary, MusicFollowing bassist Jason Newsted's departure in 2001, heavy metal icons Metallica decide on an intervention. This documentary captures the band's journey as they work with a therapist to address two decades of bottled-up anger and aggression. While searching for a new bassist, recording a new album, and facing their individual struggles, the members of Metallica begin to communicate more openly than ever before.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1
  15. 15Encounters at the End of the WorldMovie · 2007 · 99m · DocumentaryDirector Werner Herzog and cinematographer Peter Zeitlinger travel to Antarctica to document the lives of those who live and work there, and to film the continent's distinctive environments. Herzog’s narration states the film will deviate from conventional Antarctic documentaries focused on wildlife, instead examining the aspirations of the inhabitants and the character of the land itself.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  16. 16Standard Operating ProcedureMovie · 2008 · 117m · Documentary, WarErrol Morris investigates the abuse and torture of detainees by American soldiers at the Abu Ghraib prison.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8
  17. 17Bowling for ColumbineMovie · 2002 · 120m · Documentary, DramaThis film isn't about gun control. It explores the underlying anxieties of the United States and the 280 million Americans who can legally own a Uzi. Examining Columbine High School security footage, the home of NRA President Charlton Heston, a young man creating napalm from a guide book, and the tragic murder of a six-year-old by another six-year-old, "Bowling for Columbine" journeys across America, examining its history to understand why the pursuit of happiness is so intertwined with violence.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5
  18. 18The Fog of WarMovie · 2003 · 107m · Documentary, TV Movie, HistoryThe Fog of War uses archival footage, recordings of government meetings, and an interview with 85-year-old Robert McNamara to chronicle his life. It follows his journey from a promising young military officer during World War II, to president of Ford Motor Company, and finally to his role as U.S. Secretary of Defense under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson, where he oversaw the Vietnam War.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7
  19. 19The White DiamondMovie · 2004 · 90m · DocumentaryWerner Herzog's 2004 documentary chronicles the efforts of a dedicated British inventor as he strives to build and test an unusual airship on its first flight over the rainforest.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9
  20. 20The Smashing MachineMovie · 2002 · 93mThis film chronicles the life of Mark Kerr from 1999 to 2001, a highly skilled and emotionally exposed athlete widely regarded as the top ultimate fighter globally. A former Olympic wrestler, Kerr consistently overpowered his rivals, earning the moniker "The Smashing Machine." Initially fueled by the potential for wealth and early triumphs, Kerr grapples with injuries and personal anxieties. The intense physical and mental strain of his fights leads him to rely on painkillers, and the film unflinchingly depicts his addiction through raw scenes of him seeking drugs from acquaintances and colleagues, and injecting himself. His surprising loss to Fujita in Japan reveals a deeply challenging and often painful story.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9
  21. 21The Devil and Daniel JohnstonMovie · 2006 · 110m · Documentary, MusicThis 2005 documentary follows the life of Daniel Johnston, a singer, songwriter, and artist who lived with manic depression. It explores his life from childhood to the present, focusing on how his mental illness shaped his work, often expressing itself through intense self-absorption.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7
  22. 22Anvil! The Story of AnvilMovie · 2008 · 81m · Documentary, MusicRobb Reiner and Lips, best friends since they were 14, made a promise to play music together for life. Their band, Anvil, known as the "demi-gods of Canadian metal," inspired bands like Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax. After a disastrous European tour, Robb and Lips, now in their fifties, embark on recording their 13th album – a final effort to realize the dreams they shared as young men.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6
  23. 23Deep WaterMovie · 2006 · 92m · Documentary, Adventure, DramaDEEP WATER is the compelling true story of Donald Crowhurst, an amateur sailor who attempts the ultimate nautical feat: the first solo, non-stop, round-the-world yacht race.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3
  24. 24Touching the VoidMovie · 2003 · 106m · Documentary, Action, AdventureThis is the true story of Joe Simpson and Simon Yates' perilous and nearly fatal climb of Siula Grande, a 20,810-foot mountain in the Peruvian Andes, in 1985.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6
  25. 25Young At HeartMovie · 2008 · 107m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the final rehearsals of the Young at Heart Chorus in Northampton, Massachusetts, a group many members participate in despite facing significant health challenges. Their vibrant music challenges age stereotypes. While the chorus has previously toured Europe and performed for royalty, the film centers on their preparations for a concert in their own community.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.3
  26. 26Murder 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.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4
  27. 27ProtagonistMovie · 2007 · 90mJessica Yu’s documentary examines the connection between human experience and the structure of plays by Euripides. It follows the lives of four men – a former German terrorist, a bank robber, an evangelist who once preached against homosexuality, and a martial arts student.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
  28. 28Dark DaysMovie · 2000 · 82m · DocumentaryThis film offers a look at the people who live permanently in the underground tunnels beneath New York City. It's a cinematic portrait of the city's homeless population who have made these tunnels their home.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2
  29. 29Lost in La ManchaMovie · 2002 · 93m · DocumentaryFulton and Pepe's 2000 documentary chronicles Terry Gilliam's efforts to make *The Man Who Killed Don Quixote*. The film's production is repeatedly derailed by back injuries, unexpected severe weather, and a series of other unforeseen obstacles.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  30. 30Capturing 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.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  31. 31The English SurgeonMovie · 2007 · 93mThis documentary explores the life of Henry Marsh, an English neurosurgeon working in Ukraine, revealing the difficult choices and heavy emotional weight inherent in his demanding profession.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9
  32. 32ZooMovie · 2007 · 76m · Documentary"Zoo" explores the world of men who feel a deep connection to animals, focusing on a group involved in a tragic event related to their affection for horses. The film uses interviews and staged scenes to examine these relationships.IMDb 5.5TMDB 4.8
  33. 33StevieMovie · 2002 · 145m · Documentary, DramaIn 1995, director Steve James (of *Hoop Dreams*) revisits rural Southern Illinois to reconnect with Stevie Fielding, a troubled young boy he mentored as an "Advocate Big Brother" a decade prior.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.9
  34. 34God Grew Tired of UsMovie · 2006 · 89m · DocumentaryDirector Christopher Quinn documents the experiences of three Sudanese refugees – Jon Bul Dau, Daniel Abul Pach, and Panther Bior – as they grapple with the trauma of their past and navigate the challenges of building new lives in America.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.2
  35. 35Man on WireMovie · 2008 · 94m · DocumentaryIn 1974, French high-wire artist Philippe Petit performed an illegal walk between the New York World Trade Center towers, then the tallest buildings in the world. He spent nearly an hour on a wire strung 1,350 feet above the city streets before being arrested. This documentary recounts Petit's extraordinary feat.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
  36. 36Crazy LoveMovie · 2007 · 92m · Documentary, RomanceDan Klores' film explores the unusual relationship between Burt Pugach and Linda Riss. In 1950s New York, Pugach, a successful lawyer, begins a relationship with the much younger Riss. However, Riss ends the relationship after discovering Pugach lied about being divorced. Learning that Riss was engaged to someone else, Pugach hires men to attack her with lye, resulting in a 14-year prison sentence.Stream onIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4
  37. 37Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His FatherMovie · 2008 · 94m · Documentary, CrimeIn 2001, medical resident Andrew Bagby is murdered shortly after ending his relationship with his girlfriend. Later, when she reveals she is pregnant, Andrew’s close friend Kurt Kuenne creates this film as a gift for the child.Stream onIMDb 8.5TMDB 8.1
  38. 38Lake of FireMovie · 2006 · 152m · DocumentaryThis film examines the evolution of the abortion rights debate in the United States over the past 15 years.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 7.0
  39. 39New World OrderMovie · 2009 · 83mThis film offers an inside view of individuals who oppose conspiracy theories and the expanding network of people who reject globalism.Stream onIMDb 5.7TMDB 5.7
  40. 40Ring of Fire: The Emile Griffith StoryMovie · 2005 · 87mThis is the story of Griffith, a six-time world welterweight boxing champion. It explores themes of violence, love, sex, politics, and the media through his life.IMDb 7.5TMDB 8.0
  41. 41TysonMovie · 2008 · 90m · Documentary, DramaJames Toback offers a direct and unflinching portrait of Mike Tyson, largely through Tyson's own words. The film intercuts Tyson addressing the camera with footage of his boxing matches, resulting in a compelling view of the athlete.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9
  42. 42RizeMovie · 2005 · 86m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores two street dance styles – Clowning and Krumping – born in low-income neighborhoods of Los Angeles. Director David LaChapelle interviews members of each dance crew, tracing the origins of their distinct dances as a positive outlet amidst challenges of drugs, violence, and gang activity. The film offers a raw look at the rise of these growing sub-cultures in America.Stream onIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
  43. 43Grizzly ManMovie · 2005 · 103m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the story of Timothy Treadwell, known as "Grizzly Man," and his thirteen summers spent living in a National Park in Alaska, dedicated to protecting grizzly bears. Through distinctive footage, the documentary offers an intimate look at a man who devoted his life to nature, ultimately sacrificing himself for it.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5
  44. 44Our Daily BreadMovie · 2006 · 92m · DocumentaryThis film offers a look inside Europe's industrial food production system and high-tech farms. Set to the sounds of machinery, it presents a detached view of these vast, almost surreal facilities. The environment is cool and industrial, with little room for personal expression.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.7
  45. 45Bus 174Movie · 2002 · 118m · Documentary, CrimeThis documentary recounts the events of June 12th, 2000, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when a young man hijacked bus 174, threatening to harm the passengers. The incident, broadcast live across Brazilian television, became a deeply disturbing portrayal of violence and a stark example of police failure and misconduct.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3
  46. 46SpellboundMovie · 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.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4