The Documentary Renaissance
Documentary is one of the oldest forms of realist filmmaking, documenting the world around us as it is in all its warts and glory. Someone who isn’t familiar with documentary films might assume they’re all slow-paced and voiced by someone like David Attenborough. Admittedly, I used to think this too; why would I spend time watching a 2 hour documentary when I could read an article about the topic in 30 minutes and spend the remaining time watching some new action-adventure flick? I’ve always found fiction vastly entertaining, a form of escapism from my own problems. It’s so easy to get lost in character-driven epics or mind-melting plotlines or even some good CGI.
It took me some venturing into the genre to realize that documentaries aren’t unbiased reports of incidents; much like fiction, they too tell stories. Filmmakers pick and choose what they show and in what light they show it, so it follows that a documentary would not be completely unbiased. As I’ve spent more time recently watching documentaries, I’ve begun to appreciate the form to a greater extent. The amount of research that goes into investigative documentaries in particular is impressive to say the least, and I’ve always enjoyed watching a passion project. In no particular order, here are some documentaries that might help ease you into the genre!
Watch on Netflix (subscription)
Disclosure: Trans Lives on Screen (2020)
For a lot of people growing up as part of a streaming generation, Laverne Cox on Orange is the New Black was the first transgender representation they had ever seen on screen. She skyrocketed in popularity and became a leading figure in the movement for positive trans representation in the media. This documentary stars her alongside several other transgender actors, directors, writers, and talent speaking about their experiences in Hollywood.
This doc handles the nuances of trans representation incredibly well by allowing trans people themselves to speak on the topic rather than handing off the reigns of their screentime to cisgender allies. For a viewer who may not be informed on what transgender identity even is to a trans individual coming to terms with their identity and how media has influenced the ways in which they see themselves, there are teachable moments for everyone.
Watch on YouTube Premium (subscription)
Kedi (2016)
Kedi was one of the first documentaries about animals that didn’t feel like a traditional nature doc to me. The film crew follows street cats in Istanbul and their interactions with the city and its inhabitants. It’s extremely cute, but never shallow! The doc takes a topic that may seem mundane and spins it to be this really beautiful look at life. The style of filmmaking is particularly interesting, as the camera has to stay level with a cat’s perspective rather than a human’s.
This film hits all the warm and fuzzy notes with a sense of profoundness, and it’s definitely a more relaxed take on documentaries and what they can show us. Documentaries don’t have to cover super heavy topics; sometimes, they can be more casual! For viewers who aren’t Turkish, it also serves as a look into a lush culture. Overall, it’s just a sweet film, and sometimes all you want is to look at some cats and feel happier.
Watch on YouTube (free)
13th (2016)
If you’ve ever heard the phrase “prison industrial complex” and not quite known what it means, this is the documentary for you. With the help of scholars, activists, and the formerly incarcerated, Ava DuVernay exposes the racism built into the American justice system and how prisons have kept slavery alive. It’s a thorough look into not only how but why the justice system fails communities of color, especially Black communities.
Mass incarceration is a heavy topic but it is vital to understand the history of how it came to be if we ever hope to combat it. I recommend watching this with your family and friends, as it can spur some pretty important conversations. 13th serves as a good introduction to criticism of the US prison system but there are a lot of resources out there to go further in depth into both reform and abolitionist schools of thought.
Watch on Amazon Prime Video (rent or buy)
Amy (2015)
Out of dozens of documentaries about musicians, Amy sticks out. Admittedly, I’d been a fan of Amy Winehouse long before I’d ever seen this film, but the level of attention paid to the life and music of neo-soul icon was touching. Through interviews with family and fellow musicians and previously unseen recording sessions, Winehouse’s life is laid bare.
The film handles discussing Winehouse’s experiences with addiction respectfully but honestly; sometimes, it’s difficult to watch. Many more fictitious films tend to glamorize addiction and its accompanying lifestyle; documentaries have a chance to change that narrative and be more honest about the effects addiction has on people, regardless their star status. No matter if you’re a superfan or someone who only knows of her tragic end, Amy is a love letter to its namesake and might just introduce you to some new music.
Watch on Netflix (subscription)
Salt Fat Acid Heat (2018)
When most Americans think of food shows, they tend to imagine fast-paced and drama-filled competitions like Cutthroat Kitchen or Chopped. Salt Fat Acid Heat is not that. In a four-part mini series, Samin Nosrat travels the world in search of the common factors that make different cultures’ cuisines delicious. For people who love browsing foodstagram, this doc was made for you. Everything Nosrat ends up making looks amazing, and the best part is that she explains why these foods taste great too.
Her energy is infectious and even the most novice chef ends up wanting to try some new recipes after watching her explore kitchens from Italy to Japan. This series is a good introduction to food shows that are more interested in the inquisitive nature of food and culture rather than creating competitions; fans might enjoy Anthony Bourdain’s longer series Parts Unknown!
Watch on Netflix (subscription)
Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich (2020)
You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who follows the news but hasn’t heard of Jeffrey Epstein by now. However, the sensationalism surrounding his death in the media has largely overshadowed the real life implications of his actions. Filthy Rich aims to put power back into the hands of survivors by allowing them to speak on their experiences. While the doc does question how Epstein was able to amass his wealth and connections, it focuses on the survivors’ battles to hold their abuser accountable.
I appreciate this conscious choice to follow survivors and the ways they fought to get their voices heard; it’s distinct from the way the news has covered Epstein’s trial, death, and fallout. In the years following the #MeToo movement, more and more survivors have been willing to come out about workplace harassment, domestic violence, and rape. Documentaries about sexual assault can help bring awareness to the issue and create a sense of support around survivors.
Watch on Netflix (subscription)
Shirkers (2018)
Visually vibrant and intensely mysterious, Shirkers is a story about a story. As a filmmaker and a fan of road movies, I instantly felt a connection to the women who made this film. If you’re looking for a way to get into experimental films, Shirkers can guide you in. More than just a mish-mash of interviews of how these women tried to make a movie and were robbed of the footage, Shirkers is an ode to teenagehood, love, loss, and connection.
Thematically, this documentary definitely goes beyond a simple thesis or argument. There’s a definite “plot” (as far as there can be a plot to a documentary), so I won’t spoil too much. What I will say is that Shirkers is a must-watch for anyone who loves mysteries rooted in reality as well as for anyone who’s looking for eye candy and beautifully crafted shots.
So the next time you’re endlessly scrolling through your streaming service of choice, try venturing into the documentary category! From true crime to conspiracy theory to biopics, you may surprise yourself and find a new interest.
