These are our top picks of the most fascinating, jaw-dropping and mind-blowing documentaries every educated film watcher must see.
1. Grizzly Man (2005)
Pieced together from Timothy Treadwell’s actual video footage, Werner Herzog’s remarkable documentary examines the calling that drove Treadwell to live among a tribe of wild grizzly bears on an Alaskan reserve. A devoted conservationist with a passion for adventure, Timothy believed he had bridged the gap between human and beast. When one of the bears he loved and protected tragically turns on him, the footage he shot serves as a window into our understanding of nature and its grim realities.
2. Apollo 11 (2019)
Never-before-seen footage and audio recordings reveal the inner workings of NASA’s most celebrated mission as astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins embark on their historic 1969 trip to the moon.
3. Paris is Burning (1990)
This documentary focuses on drag queens living in New York City and their “house” culture, which provides a sense of community and support for the flamboyant and often socially shunned performers. Groups from each house compete in elaborate balls that take cues from the world of fashion. Also touching on issues of racism and poverty, the film features interviews with a number of renowned drag queens, including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija and Dorian Corey.
4. Planet Earth (2006)
Dazzling, state-of-the-art high-definition imagery highlights this breathtaking documentary series featuring footage of some of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders — from the oceans to the deserts to the polar ice caps. Actress Sigourney Weaver narrates this American version of the original BBC production.