- The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
- The Bridge of San Luis Rey (2004)
- The Bridge (2006)
- The Forth Bridge (2015)
- The Great Bridge (1992)
- The Iron Bridge (2011)
- The Bridge: A Story of Love, Loss, and the Golden Gate (2015)
- The Millau Viaduct (2005)
- The Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapse (1940)
- The Humber Bridge (1981)
Bridges are not just structures that connect two points; they are feats of engineering, symbols of human ingenuity, and often, stories of triumph and tragedy. This curated list of documentaries delves into the world of bridges, exploring their construction, the challenges faced during their building, and the impact they've had on communities and landscapes. Whether you're an engineering enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of these architectural wonders, this collection offers a unique perspective on some of the world's most iconic bridges.
The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
Description: Although not a documentary, this film is based on real events during WWII where POWs were forced to build a bridge over the River Kwai in Thailand. It's included for its historical context and the depiction of bridge construction under extreme conditions.
Fact: The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was one of the first British films to win Best Picture at the Oscars.
Watch Now
The Bridge of San Luis Rey (2004)
Description: Based on Thornton Wilder's novel, this film explores the aftermath of a bridge collapse in Peru, delving into the lives of those connected to the bridge, blending fiction with historical context.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Peru, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.
30 Days Free
The Bridge (2006)
Description: This documentary focuses on the Golden Gate Bridge, known for its beauty and, sadly, as a site for suicides. It captures the lives of those who visit the bridge, providing a poignant look at human struggles and the bridge's dual nature as a symbol of hope and despair.
Fact: The film was shot over a year, with cameras capturing the bridge 24/
30 Days Free
The Forth Bridge (2015)
Description: This documentary explores the construction of the Forth Bridge in Scotland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It delves into the engineering challenges, the lives of the workers, and the bridge's significance in Scottish history.
Fact: The Forth Bridge was once the longest cantilever bridge in the world. The film includes rare archival footage and interviews with descendants of the original builders.
30 Days Free
The Great Bridge (1992)
Description: This documentary tells the story of the Brooklyn Bridge, detailing its construction, the vision of John A. Roebling, and the personal sacrifices made by his son Washington and daughter-in-law Emily.
Fact: The film uses dramatic reenactments to bring the story to life, and it includes interviews with historians and engineers.
30 Days Free
The Iron Bridge (2011)
Description: Focused on the world's first cast iron bridge in Shropshire, England, this documentary explores its construction, the industrial revolution's impact, and its role in shaping modern engineering.
Fact: The bridge was built without any modern machinery, relying solely on human labor and ingenuity.
30 Days Free
The Bridge: A Story of Love, Loss, and the Golden Gate (2015)
Description: This documentary revisits the Golden Gate Bridge, focusing on the stories of love, loss, and the human connection to this iconic structure, offering a different perspective from the 2006 film.
Fact: It includes interviews with people who have proposed on the bridge, showcasing its role in personal milestones.
30 Days Free
The Millau Viaduct (2005)
Description: This documentary captures the construction of the Millau Viaduct in France, the tallest bridge in the world, highlighting the engineering feats and the breathtaking views it offers.
Fact: The bridge was designed by Norman Foster and Michel Virlogeux, and its construction was completed in just three years.
30 Days Free
The Tacoma Narrows Bridge Collapse (1940)
Description: This short documentary captures the infamous collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, known as "Galloping Gertie," due to aerodynamic flutter, providing a lesson in engineering failures.
Fact: The footage of the bridge's collapse is one of the most famous in engineering history, used in countless educational materials.
30 Days Free
The Humber Bridge (1981)
Description: This documentary chronicles the construction of the Humber Bridge, once the longest single-span suspension bridge in the world, focusing on the engineering challenges and the bridge's impact on the local community.
Fact: The bridge was opened by Queen Elizabeth II, and its construction was a significant event in British engineering history.
30 Days Free
