Top 10 Family Documentaries to Watch

Description: Although centered on Robert S. McNamara's life, this documentary delves into his personal life and family, providing insight into how his career decisions impacted his family relationships.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It features 11 lessons McNamara learned during his life, which are relevant to understanding family dynamics.

Description: This documentary examines the Friedman family during a period of turmoil when the father and son were accused of child molestation. It's a chilling look at how family dynamics can unravel under the pressure of public scrutiny and legal battles.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It has sparked debate over the ethics of documentary filmmaking.

Description: This documentary dives into the world of competitive arcade gaming, focusing on the rivalry between Steve Wiebe and Billy Mitchell. While not strictly about family, it explores the lengths to which individuals go to achieve personal goals, often at the expense of family time, making it a unique addition to this list.

Fact: The film has inspired a cult following and has been praised for its storytelling. It also features a cameo by Walter Day, the founder of Twin Galaxies, the original arcade game scorekeeper.

Description: This documentary captures the lives of the White family, known for their wild antics and criminal activities in West Virginia. It's an unfiltered look at a family's struggle with poverty, addiction, and the quest for normalcy.

Fact: The film was shot over a period of 18 months, capturing the family's daily life and events. It has been both criticized and praised for its portrayal of the family.

Description: This innovative documentary uses actors lip-syncing to real audio recordings to tell the story of playwright Andrea Dunbar and her family, exploring themes of legacy, poverty, and the cycle of abuse.

Fact: The film was directed by Clio Barnard, who used a unique blend of documentary and drama techniques. It was critically acclaimed for its approach.

Description: Sarah Polley's intimate documentary delves into her own family's history, revealing secrets and exploring the nature of truth and memory. It's a compelling look at how family stories shape our understanding of ourselves.

Fact: Sarah Polley, the director, also stars in the film, making it a very personal project. The film won the National Board of Review Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This documentary follows the Angulo brothers, who were raised in near-total isolation in their New York City apartment. It's a fascinating study of how family dynamics can shape one's worldview and the power of cinema to connect and liberate.

Fact: The film premiered at Sundance Film Festival and won the U.S. Documentary Grand Jury Prize. The brothers' story also led to a book deal and a stage play.

Description: While primarily about the Egyptian revolution, this documentary also explores the personal lives and family dynamics of the activists involved, showing how political upheaval affects family relationships.

Fact: The film won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This deeply emotional documentary follows a filmmaker's journey to honor his murdered friend by documenting his life for his unborn son. It's a heart-wrenching exploration of family, loss, and the legal system's impact on personal lives.

Fact: The film was originally intended as a private video for Zachary, but it became a public documentary due to the overwhelming response. It has also influenced legal reforms regarding custody and visitation rights.

Description: This documentary follows a pastor who allows homeless men to live in his church, leading to community backlash and personal family strain. It's a poignant look at compassion, community, and the sacrifices families make.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It also sparked a national conversation about housing and community support.