Looking for the best documentaries to watch? Check out our comprehensive reviews of the top documentaries available. From thought-provoking stories to gripping real-life accounts, we have you covered. Discover the most captivating documentaries in our expertly curated collection. Start exploring today!
Looking for the best documentaries reviews to watch? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the most captivating and thought-provoking documentaries that are sure to leave a lasting impact. These best documentaries reviews cover a wide range of topics, from social issues to historical events and everything in between. With their engaging storytelling and expertly crafted narratives, these documentaries offer a unique and immersive viewing experience. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the world around you, these best documentaries reviews will satisfy your craving for knowledge and entertainment. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be enlightened by these extraordinary films.
| # | Documentary | Genre | Release Year | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | “Blackfish” | Documentary, Drama | 2013 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | “The Cove” | Documentary, Crime | 2009 | 9/10 |
| 3 | “Citizenfour” | Documentary, Biography | 2014 | 8.8/10 |
| 4 | “Amy” | Documentary, Biography | 2015 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | “Searching for Sugar Man” | Documentary, Music | 2012 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | “Exit Through the Gift Shop” | Documentary, Comedy | 2010 | 8/10 |
| 7 | “Man on Wire” | Documentary, Biography | 2008 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | “Grizzly Man” | Documentary, Biography | 2005 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | “Jiro Dreams of Sushi” | Documentary | 2011 | 7.2/10 |
| 10 | “March of the Penguins” | Documentary, Family | 2005 | 7/10 |
Contents
Blackfish
- Director: Gabriela Cowperthwaite
- Release Year: 2013
- Genre: Documentary, Drama
- Runtime: 83 minutes
- Ratings: IMDb – 8.1/10, Rotten Tomatoes – 98%
Blackfish is a powerful documentary that sheds light on the dark side of the captive orca industry. It tells the story of Tilikum, a performing killer whale responsible for the deaths of several trainers. The film explores the ethical implications of keeping these highly intelligent creatures in captivity and raises important questions about animal welfare.
This thought-provoking documentary exposes the consequences of keeping orcas in small tanks and highlights the psychological and physical impact it has on these majestic creatures. Through interviews with former SeaWorld trainers and experts, Blackfish challenges the entertainment industry’s treatment of marine animals and calls for change.
The Cove
- Director: Louie Psihoyos
- Release Year: 2009
- Genre: Documentary, Crime, History
- Runtime: 92 minutes
- Ratings: IMDb – 8.4/10, Rotten Tomatoes – 94%
The Cove is an eye-opening documentary that exposes the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Taiji, Japan. Led by activist Ric O’Barry, the film follows a team of filmmakers and divers as they uncover the hidden cove where thousands of dolphins are slaughtered every year.
This gripping documentary not only exposes the shocking reality of the dolphin hunting industry but also raises awareness about the dangers of consuming dolphin meat contaminated with high levels of mercury. The Cove serves as a call to action, urging viewers to take a stand against animal cruelty and environmental destruction.
The Cove received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and impactful message. It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2010.
Citizenfour
- Director: Laura Poitras
- Release Year: 2014
- Genre: Documentary, Biography, Crime
- Runtime: 114 minutes
- Ratings: IMDb – 8/10, Rotten Tomatoes – 96%
Citizenfour is a riveting documentary that chronicles the events surrounding Edward Snowden’s release of classified NSA documents to journalist Glenn Greenwald. The film provides an inside look into the global surveillance programs conducted by intelligence agencies and raises important questions about privacy and government transparency.
This groundbreaking documentary offers a glimpse into the life of Edward Snowden as he reveals the extent of mass surveillance carried out by governments worldwide. Citizenfour serves as a wake-up call, prompting discussions about civil liberties and the balance between national security and individual privacy.
Citizenfour received widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative and its role in sparking a global debate on surveillance and privacy rights.
Amy
- Director: Asif Kapadia
- Release Year: 2015
- Genre: Documentary, Biography, Music
- Runtime: 128 minutes
- Ratings: IMDb – 7.8/10, Rotten Tomatoes – 95%
Amy is a poignant documentary that tells the tragic story of singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse. Through archival footage and interviews with friends, family, and collaborators, the film explores her rise to fame, struggles with addiction, and the pressures of the music industry.
This intimate documentary offers a raw and honest portrayal of Amy Winehouse’s life, showcasing her incredible talent and the personal demons she battled. It serves as a reminder of the price of fame and the devastating impact it can have on an individual’s well-being.
Searching for Sugar Man
- Director: Malik Bendjelloul
- Release Year: 2012
- Genre: Documentary, Biography, Music
- Runtime: 86 minutes
- Ratings: IMDb – 8.2/10, Rotten Tomatoes – 94%
Searching for Sugar Man is a captivating documentary that follows two South African fans on their quest to uncover the truth about the mysterious American musician Rodriguez. Believed to be dead, Rodriguez’s music gained immense popularity in South Africa during the apartheid era.
This heartwarming documentary explores the power of music and its ability to transcend borders and touch people’s lives. It showcases the impact Rodriguez’s music had on a generation and the remarkable journey to find the truth behind his disappearance from the music scene.
What are some highly recommended documentaries?
There are several highly recommended documentaries that have received critical acclaim. Some of these include “Blackfish,” a thought-provoking documentary about the treatment of orcas in captivity, and “The Cove,” which sheds light on the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Japan. Another must-see documentary is “Citizenfour,” which provides an inside look at Edward Snowden’s revelations about government surveillance. These documentaries offer powerful storytelling and raise important social and environmental issues.
How can I find reliable reviews for documentaries?
When looking for reliable reviews of documentaries, it’s best to consult reputable sources such as film review websites, documentary film festivals, and trusted film critics. Websites like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb provide aggregated ratings from both critics and audiences, giving you a comprehensive overview of the documentary’s reception. Additionally, reading reviews from renowned film critics can provide valuable insights into the quality and impact of a documentary.
What makes a documentary stand out as the best?
A standout documentary is one that effectively combines compelling storytelling with in-depth research and impactful visuals. The best documentaries often tackle important social, political, or environmental issues, shedding light on lesser-known topics or presenting a fresh perspective on familiar subjects. They engage viewers emotionally and intellectually, leaving a lasting impression and inspiring conversations. A well-crafted narrative structure, strong interviews with key subjects, and high production value also contribute to making a documentary stand out as the best.
Documentary: “The Social Dilemma”
“The Social Dilemma” is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the impact of social media on our society. It delves into the addictive nature of these platforms, their influence on our behavior, and the manipulation of our personal data. This eye-opening film raises important questions about the ethics and consequences of our digital lives.
Documentary: “Blackfish”
“Blackfish” is a gripping documentary that sheds light on the dark side of the entertainment industry. It exposes the harsh reality of keeping killer whales in captivity and the tragic consequences for both the animals and their trainers. This emotionally charged film serves as a powerful reminder of the ethical concerns surrounding marine parks and animal exploitation.
Documentary: “Planet Earth II”
“Planet Earth II” is a visually stunning documentary series that takes viewers on an extraordinary journey through various ecosystems around the world. With breathtaking cinematography and captivating storytelling, this remarkable production showcases the beauty and fragility of our planet’s wildlife. It offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the wonders of nature and the urgent need for conservation.
