If your TV and film taste is anything like mine, you love documentaries. Documentaries are great because they cover dozens of categories. Some are more historically based, while others cover the here and now. There’s something for everyone, and you usually feel less guilty for watching them because hey, you’re learning something. They’re almost like intellectual reality shows. With all that being said, here are some of my favorite documentary series and films, organized by category.
1. If you're into true crime, watch "The Keepers."
Anyone who couldn’t get enough of "Making a Murderer" will be equally captivated by this seven episode docuseries. This Netflix show follows the unsolved 1969 murder of Cathy Cesnik, a Catholic nun and high school teacher. While investigating the murder, the filmmakers uncover a scandal that has been buried in Baltimore for over 40 years.
2. If you're interested in other religions, watch "Going Clear: Scientology & the Prison of Belief."
What's the difference between a religion, a cult, and a for-profit organization? More importantly, why do these distinctions matter? The answer; tax exemptions. This film raises questions about the practices and fundamentals of the Church of Scientology, with interviews from former members.
3. If you're a sports fan, watch "Red Army."
"Red Army" narrates the success story of the Soviet Union's national hockey team in the 1980's through the eyes of its players. The film follows primarily the five man unit known as the Russian Five. Although "Red Army" has enough hockey jargon to classify it as "sporty" any history buff will appreciate its discussion of the Cold War and U.S.-U.S.S.R. relations.
4. If you love fashion, watch "The September Issue."
Anna Wintour has been Editor-in-Chief of Vogue since 1988. Over the past 29 years, she has been regarded as a mysterious, intimidating, and powerful figure within the fashion world. "The September Issue" provides a sneak peek into Vogue's headquarters as stylists, editors, and Ms. Wintour herself prepare for the most important monthly issue of the year.
5. If you're passionate about social justice issues, watch "13th."
The title of this Netflix documentary, "13th" refers to the Thirteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution that outlawed slavery. The film focuses on the clause "except as a punishment for crime" and its effect on the incarceration of African Americans. Directed by Ava DuVernay, this film features commentary from Angela David and Newt Gingrich among others.
6. If you love celebrity culture, watch "Amy."
On July 23rd, 2011, British singer Amy Winehouse was found dead in her house. "Amy" chronicles her meteoric rise to superstardom and her eventual demise through alcoholism, drug addiction, and an eating disorder. The film uses footage of Winehouse as well as interviews from her family and friends, resulting in a touching tribute to the late singer.
These are just a few of my favorites, and most of them can be found on either Netlfix, YouTube, Redbox, or Amazon Prime. So if you're looking for a way out of an endless loop of Christmas movies, look no further for films and shows that'll hold your attention. And who knows, maybe you'll learn something!
