If you’re a fan of compelling documentaries like Icarus, which delves into the world of sports and political intrigue, you’re in for a treat. Here are 18 movies that capture the same intensity and thought-provoking narratives. Each one has its own unique story to tell, making them perfect for your next movie night.

1. The Armstrong Lie

Directed by Alex Gibney, The Armstrong Lie explores the rise and fall of cyclist Lance Armstrong. The film provides an in-depth look at his career and the doping scandal that destroyed his reputation, featuring interviews with Armstrong himself.

2. Citizenfour

This Oscar-winning documentary by Laura Poitras follows Edward Snowden as he leaks classified NSA documents. Featuring Snowden, Glenn Greenwald, and Ewen MacAskill, Citizenfour is a gripping look at government surveillance and privacy issues.

3. The Great Hack

Karina Kelly and David Carroll star in The Great Hack, a documentary that dives into the Cambridge Analytica scandal. This film exposes how data privacy is manipulated for political gain, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in digital ethics.

4. The Social Dilemma

Directed by Jeff Orlowski, The Social Dilemma features tech experts like Tristan Harris and Jaron Lanier discussing the dark side of social media. The film blends documentary and dramatization to highlight how social networks manipulate human behavior.

5. Fahrenheit 11/9

Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 11/9 examines the political landscape that led to Donald Trump’s presidency. Featuring interviews with politicians and activists, this documentary offers a critical look at American democracy.

6. 13th

Ava DuVernay’s 13th explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The film features scholars, activists, and politicians like Angela Davis and Cory Booker, providing a comprehensive look at systemic racism.

7. Inside Job

Narrated by Matt Damon, Inside Job delves into the 2008 financial crisis. Directed by Charles Ferguson, this documentary features interviews with financial insiders and politicians, offering a detailed analysis of economic corruption.

8. Dirty Wars

Jeremy Scahill stars in Dirty Wars, a documentary that investigates covert military operations around the globe. Directed by Rick Rowley, the film exposes the hidden aspects of America’s war on terror.

9. The Cove

Directed by Louie Psihoyos, The Cove follows Ric O’Barry as he uncovers the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Taiji, Japan. The film is both a thriller and a call to action for wildlife conservation.

10. Blackfish

Gabriela Cowperthwaite‘s Blackfish examines the captivity of orcas at SeaWorld. The documentary features former trainers and experts who discuss the ethical and psychological impacts of keeping these majestic creatures in captivity.

11. Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

Directed by Morgan Neville, Won’t You Be My Neighbor? chronicles the life and legacy of Fred Rogers. Featuring interviews with Rogers’ family and colleagues, this heartwarming documentary celebrates the impact of the beloved children’s television host.

12. RBG

Betsy West and Julie Cohen direct RBG, a documentary that explores the life and career of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The film features interviews with Ginsburg herself, as well as her friends and family, highlighting her contributions to gender equality.

13. An Inconvenient Truth

Al Gore stars in An Inconvenient Truth, a documentary directed by Davis Guggenheim that focuses on climate change. The film presents compelling evidence and arguments about the urgent need for environmental action.

14. The Fog of War

Directed by Errol Morris, The Fog of War features an extensive interview with former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara. The documentary delves into the complexities of war and decision-making at the highest levels of government.

15. Super Size Me

Morgan Spurlock’s Super Size Me explores the health impacts of fast food by documenting his 30-day experiment of eating only McDonald’s. The film features interviews with nutritionists, doctors, and fast food employees.

16. Food, Inc.

Directed by Robert Kenner, Food, Inc. examines the industrialization of food production in America. The documentary features interviews with farmers, activists, and industry experts, shedding light on the ethical and environmental impacts of our food choices.

17. Bowling for Columbine

Michael Moore’s Bowling for Columbine investigates gun violence in the United States. The film features interviews with victims, activists, and politicians, providing a critical look at America’s gun culture.

18. The Hunting Ground

Directed by Kirby Dick, The Hunting Ground explores the issue of sexual assault on college campuses. Featuring interviews with survivors and activists, the documentary highlights the systemic failures in addressing campus sexual violence.

These documentaries, much like Icarus, offer a deep dive into various critical issues, from political scandals to social justice and environmental challenges. Each film provides a unique perspective, making them essential viewing for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of our world.