Documentaries on Revolutions: A Cinematic Journey Through Change

Description: This chilling documentary explores the aftermath of the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66, where the perpetrators reenact their crimes. It's a profound look at the psychological impact of revolution and violence.

Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia, but it received widespread international acclaim, including an Oscar nomination.

Description: This gripping documentary captures the Egyptian revolution of 2011, focusing on the Tahrir Square protests. It's a raw, emotional journey through the hopes, fears, and resilience of the Egyptian people.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and it was filmed by the participants themselves, giving it an authentic, firsthand perspective.

Description: This film explores the radical left-wing group in the U.S. during the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for their bombings in protest of the Vietnam War and other issues. It's a deep dive into the mindset of revolutionary activism.

Fact: The film includes interviews with former members of the Weather Underground, providing firsthand accounts of their actions and motivations.

Description: This documentary follows the work of a group of video journalists in Myanmar, capturing the 2007 Saffron Revolution. It's a testament to the power of citizen journalism in the face of oppression.

Fact: The film was directed by Anders Østergaard, who had to rely on smuggled footage to tell this story.

Description: While not strictly about a revolution, this documentary by John Pilger examines the role of the media in shaping public perception of war and conflict, which can lead to revolutionary changes in public opinion.

Fact: Pilger, a renowned journalist, uses his own experiences and interviews with other journalists to critique media coverage.

Description: This documentary features interviews with six former heads of Shin Bet, Israel's internal security service, reflecting on their roles in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the potential for peace.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and it's rare for such high-ranking officials to speak so candidly on camera.

Description: A powerful account of the 2013-2014 Euromaidan protests in Ukraine, this documentary captures the spirit of a nation fighting for its future. It's a testament to the courage of ordinary people standing up against oppression.

Fact: The film was directed by Evgeny Afineevsky, who also directed the acclaimed documentary "Cries from Syria."

Description: Filmed during the 2002 Venezuelan coup attempt, this documentary provides a unique insider's view of the events that unfolded. It's a rare look at a political upheaval from the perspective of those caught in the middle.

Fact: The filmmakers were actually staying in the presidential palace when the coup occurred, giving them unparalleled access to the events.

Description: While not directly about a revolution, this documentary offers insights into the decisions that can lead to revolutionary changes in policy and warfare, through the eyes of former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and it's one of the few documentaries where the subject is interviewed at length.

Description: A personal account of the non-violent resistance in Bil'in, a West Bank village, against the Israeli separation barrier. It's a poignant story of one man's journey through conflict and change.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Emad Burnat, who used his own cameras to document the events, one of which was destroyed during the protests.