Documentary Recommendations
Just some of my faves...
Jonestown: Life and Death of the Peoples Temple
Jonestown: Life and Death of the Peoples Temple takes you deep into the rise and fall of Jim Jones and his devastating cult, the Peoples Temple. Through candid interviews and rare archival footage, the documentary unveils the complex dynamics behind Jones’s manipulation of his followers, leading to one of the most tragic mass deaths in history. It’s a story about blind faith, control, and the terrifying consequences of following a leader to the extreme. This documentary doesn’t shy away from the dark truths that have been hidden in the shadows for far too long.
6 Days to Air: The Making of South Park
6 Days to Air: The Making of South Park gives an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how Trey Parker and Matt Stone manage to produce an entire episode of South Park in just six days. The documentary gives you a fast-paced, no-holds-barred glimpse into the chaos and creativity that fuels the show. From brainstorming to animation, it’s an inside look at what it really takes to bring this satirical masterpiece to life, showing the intense pressures and wild moments that go into every episode. If you’ve ever wondered how they do it—this documentary has the answers.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi
Jiro Dreams of Sushi is a mesmerizing look at Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi master known for his relentless pursuit of perfection. This documentary dives into his humble Tokyo restaurant, where he serves some of the finest sushi in the world. But it’s not just about food—it’s about dedication, passion, and the weight of carrying on a legacy. Through stunning visuals and thoughtful storytelling, the film captures the essence of Jiro’s obsession with his craft and the pressures placed on his sons to carry on his vision. It’s a quiet, powerful meditation on discipline and artistry.
We Were Here
We Were Here takes you back to the early days of the AIDS crisis in San Francisco, through the eyes of the people who lived it. This documentary offers an intimate, emotional portrait of the survivors, activists, and caregivers who fought for their lives and the lives of others during one of the darkest times in recent history. It’s a powerful testament to resilience, love, and the importance of community in the face of unimaginable loss. With deeply personal stories and firsthand accounts, this film is both a tribute to those lost and a reminder of the fight that continues.
Freeway: Crack in the System
Freeway: Crack in the System tells the story of Rick Ross, the infamous drug kingpin, and his role in fueling America’s crack epidemic. The documentary weaves together Ross’s rise in the drug trade with an in-depth look at the larger forces at play in the war on drugs. Through interviews and investigative reporting, it exposes the systemic failures, political corruption, and racial inequalities that allowed the crack crisis to spiral out of control. Ross’s own journey from kingpin to activist provides a compelling lens through which to examine this devastating chapter in American history.
