Collective is a gripping documentary that delves into the aftermath of a tragic fire in Romania, highlighting systemic corruption and the brave journalists who expose it. If you’re a fan of hard-hitting investigative documentaries, here are 15 movies that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. The Cove
The Cove is a documentary that uncovers the horrifying truth behind dolphin hunting in Japan. Directed by Louie Psihoyos, it follows activist Ric O’Barry as he risks his life to reveal the brutal practices. The film stars Ric O’Barry and Louie Psihoyos.
2. Citizenfour
Citizenfour is a documentary that provides an inside look at Edward Snowden’s leak of NSA documents. Directed by Laura Poitras, it captures the tense moments when Snowden reveals the extent of government surveillance. The film features Edward Snowden, Glenn Greenwald, and Laura Poitras.
3. The Act of Killing
The Act of Killing explores the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66 through the eyes of the perpetrators. Directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, the film has these men reenact their crimes in various cinematic genres. It stars Anwar Congo and Herman Koto.
4. 13th
13th is a documentary by Ava DuVernay that examines the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The film argues that slavery has been perpetuated through the criminal justice system. It features Angela Davis, Bryan Stevenson, and Michelle Alexander.
5. Icarus
Icarus is a documentary that starts as an investigation into doping in sports but evolves into a geopolitical thriller. Directed by Bryan Fogel, it uncovers a major Olympic doping scandal. The film stars Bryan Fogel and Grigory Rodchenkov.
6. Blackfish
Blackfish exposes the dark side of keeping orcas in captivity at marine parks like SeaWorld. Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, it tells the story of Tilikum, a performing killer whale that killed several people. The film features former SeaWorld trainers and marine biologists.
7. The Fog of War
The Fog of War is a documentary that features interviews with Robert S. McNamara, the Secretary of Defense during the Vietnam War. Directed by Errol Morris, the film explores the complexities of war and decision-making. It stars Robert S. McNamara and Errol Morris.
8. Inside Job
Inside Job is a documentary that provides a comprehensive analysis of the 2008 global financial crisis. Directed by Charles Ferguson, the film explores the relationships between financial institutions and government officials. It features interviews with economists, politicians, and financial experts.
9. Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room
Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room is a documentary that exposes the corporate fraud and corruption behind Enron’s downfall. Directed by Alex Gibney, the film is based on the book by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind. It stars Peter Coyote, Bethany McLean, and Peter Elkind.
10. The Imposter
The Imposter is a documentary that tells the story of a French con artist who impersonates a missing Texas boy. Directed by Bart Layton, the film blends real interviews with reenactments to unravel this bizarre tale. It stars Frédéric Bourdin and Carey Gibson.
11. The Thin Blue Line
The Thin Blue Line is a documentary that investigates the wrongful conviction of Randall Dale Adams for the murder of a police officer. Directed by Errol Morris, the film uses reenactments and interviews to uncover the truth. It stars Randall Dale Adams and David Harris.
12. Bowling for Columbine
Bowling for Columbine is a documentary by Michael Moore that explores gun violence in America, focusing on the Columbine High School massacre. The film examines the causes of gun violence and the culture of fear. It features Michael Moore, Charlton Heston, and Marilyn Manson.
13. Fahrenheit 9/11
Fahrenheit 9/11 is a documentary by Michael Moore that critiques the Bush administration’s actions following the September 11 attacks. The film explores the connections between the Bush family and Saudi Arabia. It stars Michael Moore and George W. Bush.
14. The Hunting Ground
The Hunting Ground is a documentary that examines the epidemic of sexual assaults on college campuses in the United States. Directed by Kirby Dick, the film features interviews with survivors and activists. It stars Andrea Pino, Annie Clark, and Claire Potter.
15. Won’t You Be My Neighbor?
Won’t You Be My Neighbor? is a documentary about Fred Rogers, the beloved host of the children’s TV show Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Directed by Morgan Neville, the film explores Rogers’ philosophy and impact on American culture. It stars Fred Rogers and Joanne Rogers.
These documentaries not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire action, much like Collective.