Documentary films offer a powerful way to explore real-life issues and events. If you were moved by Bowling for Columbine, a documentary by Michael Moore that delves into America’s gun culture and the tragic Columbine High School massacre, you’ll likely find these twelve films equally compelling. Here are some must-watch documentaries that tackle similar themes of social justice, politics, and human rights.
1. Fahrenheit 9/11
Directed by Michael Moore, Fahrenheit 9/11 examines the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and the subsequent War on Terror. The film critiques the Bush administration and questions the motives behind the Iraq War. Featuring interviews and footage that shed light on political corruption, it stars Michael Moore himself as the narrator and guide.
2. The Hunting Ground
The Hunting Ground is a harrowing documentary that exposes the prevalence of sexual assault on college campuses in the United States. Directed by Kirby Dick, the film features interviews with survivors and activists fighting for change. Stars include Annie Clark and Andrea Pino, who share their personal stories and advocacy efforts.
3. 13th
Directed by Ava DuVernay, 13th explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The film’s title refers to the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery but left a loophole for forced labor as punishment for a crime. Featuring scholars, activists, and politicians, it stars Angela Davis and Michelle Alexander.
4. The Act of Killing
The Act of Killing is a chilling documentary by Joshua Oppenheimer that examines the Indonesian mass killings of 1965–66. The film features former death squad leaders reenacting their real-life atrocities in various cinematic genres. Starring Anwar Congo and Herman Koto, it challenges viewers to confront the horrors of state-sanctioned violence.
5. Citizenfour
Laura Poitras’ Citizenfour provides an inside look at the NSA spying scandal through the lens of whistleblower Edward Snowden. The film documents Snowden’s meetings with journalists and his eventual asylum in Russia. Starring Edward Snowden, Glenn Greenwald, and Ewen MacAskill, it offers a gripping narrative on government surveillance.
6. The Invisible War
Directed by Kirby Dick, The Invisible War investigates the epidemic of sexual assault within the U.S. military. The film features interviews with survivors and highlights the systemic failures in addressing these crimes. Stars include Kori Cioca and Jessica Hinves, who bravely share their traumatic experiences.
7. Super Size Me
Morgan Spurlock’s Super Size Me is a documentary that examines the impact of fast food on American health. The film follows Spurlock as he eats only McDonald’s food for 30 days, documenting the physical and psychological effects. Starring Morgan Spurlock himself, it offers a critical look at the fast food industry.
8. An Inconvenient Truth
An Inconvenient Truth is a documentary by Davis Guggenheim that highlights former Vice President Al Gore’s campaign to educate people about global warming. The film presents scientific data and personal anecdotes to emphasize the urgency of climate change. Starring Al Gore, it has sparked widespread environmental activism.
9. Blackfish
Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, Blackfish explores the controversial captivity of killer whales at SeaWorld. The film focuses on the story of Tilikum, a whale involved in the deaths of several trainers. Featuring interviews with former SeaWorld employees and marine experts, it stars Tilikum and various activists.
10. The Cove
The Cove is a documentary by Louie Psihoyos that uncovers the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Taiji, Japan. The film follows a team of activists as they use covert techniques to capture footage of the hunts. Starring Ric O’Barry, a former dolphin trainer turned activist, it has raised global awareness about marine conservation.
11. Won’t You Be My Neighbor?
Directed by Morgan Neville, Won’t You Be My Neighbor? celebrates the life and legacy of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. The film explores Rogers’ philosophy and impact on children’s television. Featuring interviews with friends, family, and colleagues, it stars Fred Rogers and Joanne Rogers.
12. I Am Not Your Negro
Raoul Peck’s I Am Not Your Negro is a documentary based on James Baldwin’s unfinished manuscript, Remember This House. The film examines the history of racism in America through Baldwin’s words and archival footage. Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, it features Baldwin’s reflections on civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
These documentaries, much like Bowling for Columbine, offer deep insights into pressing social issues and inspire viewers to think critically about the world around them.
