As we all know, 2020 was a year filled with challenges and upheavals, forcing us to reevaluate our lives and priorities. Many of us turned to documentaries as a way to escape, learn, and be inspired. And now, as we enter 2021 with a sense of hope and renewal, there are some truly remarkable documentaries that are worth your time and attention.
In this article, we’re going to uncover some hidden gems in the documentary world that you simply cannot miss this year. These films cover a range of topics, from the environment to social justice to personal stories of triumph and resilience. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be moved and inspired by these must-watch documentaries of 2021.
“Seaspiracy” – Directed by Ali Tabrizi, this groundbreaking documentary takes a deep dive into the destructive impact of the fishing industry on our oceans. From overfishing to bycatch to pollution, “Seaspiracy” sheds light on the urgent need for conservation and sustainable practices. This film will leave you shocked, outraged, and motivated to take action to protect our planet’s most vital resource.
“76 Days” – Directed by Wu Hao and Weixi Chen, “76 Days” offers a raw and intimate look at the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan, China. Filmed in hospitals and quarantine centers, this documentary captures the bravery and resilience of healthcare workers and patients as they navigate the overwhelming chaos and uncertainty of the crisis. “76 Days” is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity for strength and compassion in the face of adversity.
“Time” – Directed by Garrett Bradley, “Time” is a deeply moving portrait of one woman’s decades-long fight for justice and liberation. Fox Rich, a mother of six, has spent over 20 years advocating for the release of her husband, who is serving a 60-year prison sentence. Through a combination of home videos and present-day footage, “Time” explores the impact of incarceration on families and the enduring power of love and resilience.
“My Octopus Teacher” – Directed by Pippa Ehrlich and James Reed, “My Octopus Teacher” is a visually stunning and emotionally captivating documentary that follows filmmaker Craig Foster as he forms a life-changing bond with an octopus in the kelp forests of South Africa. Through breathtaking underwater footage and profound insights into the octopus’s intelligence and behavior, this film explores the interconnectedness of all living beings and the transformative power of nature.
“The Dissident” – Directed by Bryan Fogel, “The Dissident” is a gripping and chilling investigation into the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and the global implications of his murder. Through interviews with Khashoggi’s friends, colleagues, and Turkish officials, as well as never-before-seen surveillance footage and audio recordings, “The Dissident” reveals the disturbing truth behind his brutal killing and the ongoing threats to freedom of speech and human rights.
“Crip Camp” – Directed by Nicole Newnham and James LeBrecht, “Crip Camp” is a heartwarming and inspiring documentary that chronicles the transformative impact of a summer camp for disabled teenagers in the 1970s. Through archival footage and interviews with former campers and counselors, this film celebrates the power of community, activism, and self-empowerment in the fight for disability rights and equality.
“Boys State” – Directed by Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine, “Boys State” offers a fascinating and thought-provoking glimpse into the annual Boys State program, where high school students from Texas gather to build their own government and political parties in a week-long simulation. Through the eyes of four participants, this documentary explores the complexities of American democracy, identity, and leadership in a divided and polarized society.
“Disclosure” – Directed by Sam Feder, “Disclosure” is a groundbreaking and illuminating exploration of transgender representation in film and television. Through interviews with transgender actors, filmmakers, and advocates, as well as archival clips and analysis of popular media, this documentary examines the harmful stereotypes and misrepresentations of trans people on screen and the importance of authentic and inclusive storytelling.
“Inconvenient Indian” – Directed by Michelle Latimer, “Inconvenient Indian” is a visually stunning and thought-provoking documentary that challenges the myths and stereotypes surrounding Indigenous peoples in North America. Based on the award-winning book by Thomas King, this film combines animation, interviews, and archival footage to explore the history of colonization, resistance, and resilience among Indigenous communities and the ongoing struggles for justice and sovereignty.
Each of these documentaries offers a unique and important perspective on the world we live in and the issues that matter most. From environmental conservation to social justice to personal empowerment, these films invite us to empathize, learn, and take action to create a better and more equitable future for all. So make some time in your schedule, grab your favorite snack, and prepare to be inspired by the top must-watch documentaries of 2021.