30 Riveting Documentaries That Explore Life, Art, and Beyond
30 titles
Delve into the riveting world of non-fiction films that captivated audiences in 2014. These Top 30 Documentaries offer an intimate look at lives both extraordinary and ordinary, providing enlightening glimpses into our shared human experience. From the inspiring journey of Juice Plus TV's Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to the poignant tale of Matt Shepard, these documentaries delve deep into themes such as health, art, music, and social justice. As you join us on this cinematic exploration, prepare to be moved, informed, and enlightened by the power of documentary storytelling.
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Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James BrownMovie · 2014 · 115m · Music, DocumentaryJames Brown revolutionized American music. Abandoned by his parents as a child, he rose to become a hugely influential artist and social activist of the 20th century. MR. DYNAMITE: THE RISE OF JAMES BROWN chronicles his career, from rhythm and blues to funk, using rare footage, photographs, and interviews. The film follows Brown's journey to fame, starting with his first hit in 1956 and continuing through his legendary performances at venues like the Apollo Theater, the T.A.M.I. Show, and the Paris Olympia.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 2
Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead 2Movie · 2014 · 89m · DocumentaryIn the award-winning *Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead*, Joe Cross documented his transformation from overweight and ill to healthy and fit through a 60-day juice fast. *Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead 2* follows his efforts to maintain those healthy habits in the long term.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.0 - 3
Pulp: a Film About Life, Death & SupermarketsMovie · 2014 · 90m · Music, DocumentaryPulp rose to international prominence in the 1990s with hits like "Common People" and "Disco 2000." Twenty-five years and ten million albums later, they're returning to Sheffield for their final UK concert. Alongside their performance, the band members reflect on fame, love, life, and even car repairs.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2 - 4
Doc of the DeadMovie · 2014 · 81m · Documentary, HorrorA comprehensive look at zombie culture, from the team behind THE PEOPLE vs. GEORGE LUCAS.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 5
Heaven Adores YouMovie · 2014 · 104m · Documentary, MusicHeaven Adores You is a personal and thoughtful look at the life and music of Elliott Smith. The film connects his songs with the distinct atmospheres of Portland, New York City, and Los Angeles, offering a visual exploration of his songwriting and its lasting effect on those who knew him – fans, friends, and musicians alike.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 6
Meet the PatelsMovie · 2014 · 88m · Romance, Comedy, DocumentaryFinding love is rarely simple. Ravi Patel, a first-generation Indian-American, faces a daunting challenge. He envisions his ideal partner as beautiful, intelligent, humorous, family-oriented, kind, and traditionally Indian (though American-raised). Ideally, she would also share his last name: Patel, as is common in India. At 30, Ravi ends his relationship with his seemingly perfect American girlfriend (except for her red hair and name) and begins a global quest for a fellow Patel seeking love. He relies on his mother, a matchmaker, attends a convention of Americans with Patel heritage, and journeys to India during wedding season. This funny, sincere story explores universal questions: What is love? What brings happiness? And how do we find both?IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 7
Ivory TowerMovie · 2014 · 97m · DocumentaryWith tuition costs rising and student debt exceeding a trillion dollars, many are questioning the value of a college education. This film explores the challenges facing higher education, from elite institutions like Harvard to struggling public and private colleges, and innovative education companies in Silicon Valley. It presents an urgent look at a cornerstone of American society facing a critical moment.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 8
Art and CraftMovie · 2014 · 90m · DocumentaryFor decades, Mark Landis, a talented and highly productive forger, meticulously crafted flawless copies of works by famous artists. He gifted these to museums and galleries nationwide, gaining recognition for the pieces displayed. ART AND CRAFT explores the isolated world of this unique individual as he encounters an equally driven art registrar who becomes his rival.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 9
No No: A DockumentaryMovie · 2014 · 100m · DocumentaryThe film tells the story of Dock Ellis, a professional baseball player whose life was marked by extraordinary talent, addiction, and eventual recovery. Ellis famously pitched a no-hitter while under the influence of LSD, a remarkable event that defined 1970s baseball and showcased his unconventional approach to the game.
The movie explores Ellis' relationships with his teammates, friends, and family, revealing his struggles with addiction and his later work as a drug counselor. Through an ensemble cast, the film presents a comprehensive portrait of the man behind the legend – examining his impact on the field, his status as a media figure, and his personal journey toward overcoming adversity. It's a compelling blend of sports drama, personal struggle, and redemption.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 10
Matt Shepard Is a Friend of MineMovie · 2014 · 89m · History, DocumentaryThis film offers a personal look at Matthew Shepard, the young gay man who was murdered in a highly publicized hate crime. It’s a story about grief, affection, and bravery experienced during an unimaginable event.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 11
Violetta: Live in ConcertMovie · 2014 · 81m · Documentary, Music"Violetta Live in Concert" offers a visually stunning experience, boasting impressive staging, choreography, costumes, lighting, and multimedia elements.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.1 - 12
Top Gear: The Perfect Road Trip 2Movie · 2014 · 94m · Documentary, Adventure, ComedyIn 2013, Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond planned what they thought would be the ultimate road trip. It began promisingly but ended disastrously. Undeterred, the Top Gear duo return for another attempt, this time hoping to avoid problems with the French police. Welcome to The Perfect Road Trip: Part 2. Clarkson and Hammond once again pursue joy and perfection, driving fast, beautiful cars on stunning roads amidst gorgeous scenery and Mediterranean sunshine. Their quest for perfection involves ridiculous challenges and hilarious stunts, culminating in a uniquely literal car race on the island of Capri. Top Gear – The Perfect Road Trip 2. This time, it’s truly perfect. Apart from the parts that aren't.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.0 - 13
I Am Santa ClausMovie · 2014 · 89m · Drama, Documentary, ComedyWe picture Santa Claus as a flawless, magical icon. But the men who embody his legend – professional Santa Clauses – are just like us. The Santa in your family photos faces real-life struggles: divorce, job loss, insecurity, and even the occasional hangover. "I Am Santa Claus" documents the lives of five professional Santas as they prepare for the holiday season. It reveals them as flawed, human men burdened by the immense responsibility of upholding the perfect image of Santa.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 14
Chaos on the BridgeMovie · 2014 · 59m · TV Movie, Documentary, Science FictionWilliam Shatner guides audiences through the making of Star Trek: The Next Generation, a 1986 project aiming to recapture the popularity of the first Star Trek series, where Shatner starred as Captain James T. Kirk.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 15
Nowitzki: The Perfect ShotMovie · 2014 · 106m · DocumentaryThis documentary follows Dirk Nowitzki, the Dallas Mavericks player, and tells the story of his life, from growing up in Germany to achieving fame in the NBA.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 16
Marvel Studios: Assembling a UniverseMovie · 2014 · 43m · Documentary, TV Movie, FantasyThis film explores the creation of Marvel Studios and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It includes interviews and behind-the-scenes footage from every Marvel movie, the Marvel One-Shots, and the television series "Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D."IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 17
I Am Steve McQueenMovie · 2014 · 90m · DocumentaryThis film explores the remarkable life of Steve McQueen (1930-1980), the iconic actor, renowned race car driver, and enduring cultural figure. It follows his compelling personal journey and his significant contributions to the world of art.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.1 - 18
Super Duper Alice CooperMovie · 2014 · 86m · Documentary, MusicIn the 1970s Detroit music scene, Alice Cooper revitalized hard rock with elaborate stage shows. His shocking performances, featuring gruesome imagery, both captivated audiences and horrified conservative America, solidifying his status as a glam metal icon. "Super Duper Alice Cooper," assembled from rare archival footage, explores the life of Vincent Furnier, the preacher's son who became the man behind the iconic makeup and the monster he created.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 19
Magician: The Astonishing Life and Work of Orson WellesMovie · 2014 · 92m · DocumentaryOrson Welles (1915-85) was a uniquely captivating figure in Hollywood – an independent filmmaker who defied categorization. A gifted musician and painter, he excelled in theater and radio, often compared to Shakespeare. Throughout his career, Welles relentlessly pursued innovative approaches to filmmaking, always striving to surprise his audiences. He remained a romantic and legendary personality, dedicating his life entirely to cinema.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5 - 20
Bad BoysMovie · 2014 · 102m · DocumentaryThe Detroit Pistons in the late 1980s and early 1990s were known for their relentless, anything-goes approach to basketball. This intensity made them both admired and reviled, earning them the nickname "Bad Boys."IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.7 - 21
MittMovie · 2014 · 93m · DocumentaryA filmmaker gains rare access to a presidential candidate and his family during the campaign.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3 - 22
The Search for General TsoMovie · 2014 · 71m · DocumentaryIan Cheney’s documentary explores the surprising history of General Tso's Chicken, a hugely popular American dish. With over 50,000 Chinese restaurants in the U.S., it's become a staple of the American diet. The film investigates who General Tso was and how this unique fusion dish emerged. It reveals the story behind General Tso’s Chicken and offers a look at Chinese American heritage. Through humor, insight, and plenty of food, the documentary examines the cultural exchange that shaped both Chinese cuisine and American food culture, explaining the enduring appeal of this iconic dish.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5 - 23
Atari: Game OverMovie · 2014 · 66m · DocumentaryThis Xbox Originals documentary investigates the downfall of Atari, focusing on the enduring mystery of the "Great Video Game Burial of 1983." The story goes that millions of unsold E.T. game cartridges were buried in the desert, but the film seeks to uncover the truth behind the legend.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 24
HarmontownMovie · 2014 · 101m · DocumentaryThis is a comedic, unflinchingly honest documentary that follows television writer Dan Harmon as he brings his live podcast show on a national tour.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6 - 25
Banksy Does New YorkMovie · 2014 · 79m · DocumentaryIn October 2013, the anonymous street artist Banksy announced a month-long residency in New York City called "Better Out Than In." Each day, a new piece of his work appeared at a secret location. A dedicated group of fans, known as the "Banksy Hunters," embarked on a thrilling chase to find them. They searched the city streets, sharing their adventure and camaraderie on social media, documenting every moment of this temporary art show. The film follows these enthusiastic "hunters" as they explore New York City in their determined effort to discover Banksy's hidden masterpieces.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 26
Alive InsideMovie · 2014 · 74m · DocumentaryMillions of Americans live with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, often isolated in nursing homes. A man with a simple concept learns that familiar songs can unlock memories and alleviate suffering in these patients. Music brings joy and a sense of life back to them, challenging societal anxieties about growing old.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.5 - 27
The Battered Bastards of BaseballMovie · 2014 · 80m · DocumentaryVeteran Hollywood actor Bing Russell establishes an independent baseball team, which challenges the established baseball world and leads to the rapid success of the 1970s Portland Mavericks.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 28
The 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 - 29
The Internet's Own Boy: The Story of Aaron SwartzMovie · 2014 · 105m · Documentary, CrimeAaron Swartz was a brilliant programmer and advocate for social change. He made significant contributions to online activism and open access to information. However, his efforts led to a complex legal battle, tragically culminating in his death at the age of 26.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 30
Interstellar: Nolan's OdysseyMovie · 2014 · 23m · Documentary, TV MovieThis film offers an inside view of Christopher Nolan's ambitious story set in space.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.7
