30 Eye-Opening Documentaries That Defined 2011
30 titles
Delve into the riveting world of documentary filmmaking as we explore the Top 30 Documentaries of 2011. From thought-provoking examinations of influential figures to raw accounts of life's harshest realities, this captivating collection offers a fascinating glimpse at humanity and its myriad experiences. As you embark on this journey through these extraordinary films, prepare to be moved, inspired, and forever changed by the power of truth-seeking storytelling.
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UndefeatedMovie · 2011 · 113m · DocumentaryUNDEFEATED, from Dan Lindsay and T.J. Martin, follows three student-athletes from inner-city Memphis as they navigate a high school football season. The documentary captures their experiences and the efforts of a volunteer coach to support them both on and off the field. The season becomes a test of resilience as players and coaches confront unexpected challenges that define both football and life.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 2
Silvio ForeverMovie · 2011 · 80m · Documentary, ComedyThis satirical work presents an unauthorized biography of Silvio Berlusconi, constructed entirely from his own words. The narrative unfolds through a compilation of his statements made during interviews, political rallies, and other public appearances.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 3
Louis Theroux: The Ultra ZionistsMovie · 2011 · 60m · Documentary, TV MovieLouis Theroux immerses himself in a tight-knit community of ultra-nationalist Jewish settlers. He finds a group who believe it's their religious and political duty to settle in the West Bank's most sensitive locations, particularly those with biblical significance. As he spends time with them, Louis connects with those at the forefront of this extreme movement, finding them both welcoming and deeply unsettling.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7 - 4
Steve Jobs: Billion Dollar HippyMovie · 2011 · 49m · DocumentaryApple is a globally recognized brand that has shaped modern consumer culture, becoming one of the world's largest corporations through innovative products that capture contemporary desires. At its center was Steve Jobs, a college dropout driven by ambition and a relentless pursuit of perfection, often marked by a volatile temper. A complex figure, he combined Californian counterculture ideals with a talent for generating excitement and groundbreaking advancements in computer technology. In this film, insiders like Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, the executive who forced Jobs out, and his top software executive share remarkable stories of Apple's journey – its triumphs, setbacks, and ultimate resurgence under Jobs' leadership. With insights from Stephen Fry, Tim Berners-Lee, and Rita Clifton, the film explores the formula that propelled Apple from a small workshop to global dominance.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2 - 5
SuperheroesMovie · 2011 · 81m · DocumentaryThis film explores the lives of real-life superheroes. Across America, individuals adopt capes and masks – often with homemade costumes and gadgets – to fight crime and seek justice.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 6
Trevor Noah: You Laugh But It's TrueMovie · 2011 · 84m · Documentary, ComedyIn South Africa's stand-up comedy scene, Trevor Noah draws on his upbringing in a biracial family during apartheid to prepare for his debut solo performance.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 7
Hell and Back AgainMovie · 2011 · 88m · Documentary"Hell and Back Again" is a powerfully intimate and visually groundbreaking film that explores the meaning of leadership in war and the experience of returning home. It offers a depth of insight into the Afghanistan conflict unmatched by previous war films, establishing itself as a true masterpiece of the genre.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4 - 8
Daniel Tosh: Happy ThoughtsMovie · 2011 · 58m · Comedy, Documentary, TV MovieIn this Comedy Central stand-up special, Daniel Tosh entertains a live San Francisco audience with his comedic observations. He jokes about a wide variety of subjects, including sports, popular culture, religion, and politics.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.8 - 9
We Were HereMovie · 2011 · 90m · DocumentaryThis film examines the initial arrival of AIDS in San Francisco and the community's response during the early years of the epidemic. It follows how people stepped up to address the crisis.IMDb 7.9TMDB 6.8 - 10
The AmbassadorMovie · 2011 · 93m · Documentary, HistoryDanish journalist Mads Brügger goes undercover as a Liberian Ambassador to undertake a risky and darkly humorous investigation into the illegal blood diamond trade in Africa.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6 - 11
Whores' GloryMovie · 2011 · 110m · DocumentaryAcross three countries – Thailand, Bangladesh, and Mexico – women navigate harsh realities. In Bangkok, they work in a brightly lit establishment, awaiting clients. In Faridpur, Bangladesh, a madam negotiates the sale of a young girl. And in Reynosa, Mexico, women struggling with addiction seek solace from a figure known as Lady Death.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 12
Project NimMovie · 2011 · 93m · DocumentaryFrom the creators of Man on Wire comes the true story of Nim, a chimpanzee who in the 1970s was the subject of a groundbreaking experiment. The experiment sought to prove an ape could learn to communicate using language if raised like a human child. The film follows Nim's remarkable experiences within human society and the lasting effect he has on those he encounters. It's a direct and honest account of an animal we attempted to turn into a person. What we discover about him – and ourselves – is both humorous, insightful, and deeply disturbing.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.8 - 13
Comic-Con Episode IV: A Fan's HopeMovie · 2011 · 88m · DocumentaryThis film offers an inside view of San Diego Comic-Con, the biggest comic book event globally, and the dedicated fans who gather there annually.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 14
American: The Bill Hicks StoryMovie · 2010 · 102m · Comedy, Documentary"American: The Bill Hicks Story" is a documentary film about the life of comedian Bill Hicks.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 15
Hot CoffeeMovie · 2011 · 85m · DocumentaryThe widely known "McDonald's coffee case" has been misrepresented by corporations seeking tort reform. *HOT COFFEE* exposes how large businesses, with media support, spread misinformation to protect their interests. The film follows four individuals whose lives were ruined by legal challenges, questioning Americans' beliefs about the fairness of the justice system.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 16
50 Greatest Harry Potter MomentsMovie · 2011 · 93m · DocumentaryTo celebrate the recent release of the eighth and final film in the series, Robbie Coltrane recounts the franchise's most memorable scenes. The narration spans from Harry's initial encounters with Ron and Hermione on the Hogwarts Express, through a series of enchanting mysteries.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 17
Corman's WorldMovie · 2011 · 91m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the extensive career of Roger Corman, a remarkably persistent and inventive low-budget film producer and director. He was a key figure in independent filmmaking and a champion of emerging talent.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 18
Miss RepresentationMovie · 2011 · 85m · DocumentaryMISS REPRESENTATION reveals how American young people are taught that women and girls are primarily valued for their youth, beauty, and sexuality. The film examines the lack of women in positions of power in the United States and questions the media's narrow depiction of powerful women. It argues it's crucial to end this cycle of misinformation.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9 - 19
The 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 - 20
UrbanizedMovie · 2011 · 85m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the world of city design, examining the challenges and approaches to shaping urban spaces. Featuring insights from leading architects, urban planners, policymakers, builders, and thinkers, it offers a comprehensive look at the forces behind how cities are built.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 21
Glee: The Concert MovieMovie · 2011 · 84m · Music, Documentary, FamilyThis documentary follows the Glee Live! In Concert! summer 2011 tour, capturing musical performances alongside stories from fans about the show's impact on their lives.IMDb 5.6TMDB 7.3 - 22
Zeitgeist: Moving ForwardMovie · 2011 · 161m · DocumentaryThis film presents an argument for a fundamental shift away from the current global economic system. It focuses on the essential, practical needs for human and societal survival, looking beyond cultural differences and established beliefs. The film explores how these core principles can be applied to create a new, sustainable social model: a Resource-Based Economy.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.1 - 23
Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's JourneyMovie · 2011 · 80m · DocumentaryElmo is a beloved character worldwide, but few know the man behind him, Kevin Clash, who aspired to work with puppeteer Jim Henson. Kevin’s talent led him to Sesame Street. Narrated by Whoopi Goldberg, this documentary features rare footage and interviews with Frank Oz, Rosie O’Donnell, Cheryl Henson, Joan Ganz Cooney, and others. It provides an intimate look at Sesame Street and the Jim Henson Workshop.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2 - 24
One LifeMovie · 2011 · 85m · Documentary, FamilyOne Life offers stunningly intimate footage of animal behavior, providing an unparalleled connection with the natural world. The film also includes a bonus disc with exclusive behind-the-scenes content, featuring a making-of featurette narrated by Daniel Craig.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 25
Return to Jurassic ParkMovie · 2011 · 129m · DocumentaryThis multi-part documentary chronicles the creation of the Jurassic Park trilogy. Each episode focuses on a different film, detailing production highlights like the hurricane that struck during the filming of the first movie, and the groundbreaking CGI advancements that revolutionized special effects. Interviews with Spielberg, Johnston, Neill, Dern, Goldblum, the effects crews, child actors, and Peter Stormare accompany the retrospective. The documentary is divided into six parts: "Dawn of a New Era" (25 min), "Making Prehistory" (20 min), "The Next Step in Evolution" (15 min), "Finding the Lost World" (28 min), "Something Survived" (16 min), and "The Third Adventure" (25 min).IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.6 - 26
TT3D: Closer to the EdgeMovie · 2011 · 104m · DocumentaryThis 3D documentary explores why motorcycle racers continue to risk their lives competing in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, the world's most dangerous motorcycle race. The TT is renowned for its legendary rivalries and unique history, demanding a level of dedication unmatched in any other racing event. Many have paid the ultimate price pursuing victory. The film examines themes of freedom, human resilience, and the drive to win, focusing on the motivations of the elite riders who dare to risk everything for the ultimate challenge.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 27
Ray Charles - Live in France 1961Movie · 2011 · 111m · Music, DocumentaryFifty years hidden, these newly found concert films capture Ray Charles at the height of his career during the 1961 Antibes Jazz Festival in France. Featuring Charles with the original Raeletts and his legendary band – including David "Fathead" Newman and Hank Crawford – these performances marked his first concerts in Europe. They launched Ray Charles into becoming one of America's most celebrated international stars.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 28
SamsaraMovie · 2011 · 102m · DocumentaryOver five years and filmed in twenty-five countries across five continents, *Samsara* is shot on 70mm film. It takes viewers to diverse locations: sacred sites, disaster areas, industrial facilities, and natural landscapes.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.0 - 29
African CatsMovie · 2011 · 89m · Documentary, AdventureAfrican Cats follows the lives of lions, cheetahs, and other animals on the savanna. It centers on Mara, a lion cub learning from her mother; Sita, a single mother cheetah raising five cubs; and Fang, a lion leader protecting his pride from a returning rival. The film shows their struggles, their bonds, and their fight for survival.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 30
Jackass 3.5Movie · 2011 · 85m · Comedy, Documentary, ActionJohnny Knoxville, known for 'Jackass,' is releasing previously unseen footage from the making of 'Jackass 3D.' The collection features unused stunts, tricks, antics, and general mayhem filmed during production, alongside funny outtakes that didn't make the final movie.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3
