Documentary films have a unique way of shedding light on real-world events and issues, often leaving a lasting impact on their viewers. If you were moved by Athlete A, a powerful documentary that delves into the abuse scandal within USA Gymnastics, you’ll likely appreciate these 16 other compelling films. Learn more about Athlete A.

1. The Invisible War

This harrowing documentary exposes the epidemic of sexual assault within the U.S. military. Directed by Kirby Dick, it features testimonies from survivors and highlights the systemic failures in addressing these crimes. Key figures include Kori Cioca and Jessica Hinves.

2. Miss Representation

Miss Representation critiques the portrayal of women in mainstream media and its impact on societal perceptions. Directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the film features interviews with influential women like Condoleezza Rice and Gloria Steinem.

3. The Hunting Ground

Directed by Kirby Dick, this documentary examines the epidemic of sexual assaults on American college campuses. It follows survivors as they pursue justice and features testimonials from students like Andrea Pino and Annie Clark.

4. 13th

Ava DuVernay’s 13th explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The film is named after the 13th Amendment and features insights from scholars, activists, and politicians, including Angela Davis and Cory Booker.

5. Icarus

This Academy Award-winning documentary by Bryan Fogel starts as an investigation into doping in sports and evolves into a global exposé on Russia’s state-sponsored doping program. Key figures include Dr. Grigory Rodchenkov, a whistleblower from Russia.

6. The Bleeding Edge

Directed by Kirby Dick, The Bleeding Edge investigates the medical device industry and its impact on patients’ lives. The film features personal stories from victims and insights from industry experts, highlighting the need for regulatory reform.

7. Leaving Neverland

This controversial documentary by Dan Reed focuses on the allegations of sexual abuse against Michael Jackson. It features detailed accounts from Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who share their experiences of abuse.

8. Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

Directed by Morgan Neville, this heartwarming documentary explores the life and legacy of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The film includes interviews with Rogers’ family and colleagues, celebrating his impact on children’s television.

9. Three Identical Strangers

Tim Wardle’s Three Identical Strangers tells the astonishing story of triplets separated at birth and reunited by chance. The film delves into the darker aspects of their separation, featuring interviews with the brothers and their families.

10. The Keepers

This true-crime documentary series directed by Ryan White investigates the unsolved murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik. The series uncovers a web of abuse and cover-ups within the Catholic Church, featuring testimonies from survivors and journalists.

11. Bully

Lee Hirsch’s Bully provides a raw look at the bullying epidemic in American schools. The film follows the lives of five students who face bullying daily, aiming to raise awareness and inspire change through their poignant stories.

12. The Central Park Five

Directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon, this documentary revisits the wrongful convictions of five teenagers in the 1989 Central Park jogger case. The film features interviews with the exonerated men, highlighting the flaws in the justice system.

13. Amy

Asif Kapadia’s Amy chronicles the life and tragic death of singer Amy Winehouse. The documentary features archival footage and interviews with those close to her, offering an intimate look at her struggles with fame and addiction.

14. The Act of Killing

Directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, this chilling documentary explores the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66. The film features former death squad leaders reenacting their crimes, providing a disturbing insight into their mindset and the atrocities committed.

15. Blackfish

Gabriela Cowperthwaite’s Blackfish investigates the controversial captivity of killer whales at SeaWorld. The film focuses on Tilikum, an orca involved in several incidents, and features interviews with former trainers and marine experts.

16. The Cove

This Academy Award-winning documentary by Louie Psihoyos exposes the brutal dolphin hunts in Taiji, Japan. The film follows a team of activists led by Ric O’Barry as they document the slaughter and raise awareness about marine conservation.

These documentaries, like Athlete A, offer powerful narratives that can inform, inspire, and drive change. Whether you’re interested in social justice, true crime, or human rights, these films provide a compelling look at some of the most pressing issues of our time.