Top 10 Documentaries About Filmmaking

Description: Documenting the making of Werner Herzog's "Fitzcarraldo," this film captures the director's relentless pursuit of his vision, including the infamous scene of dragging a steamship over a mountain.

Fact: Herzog himself appears in the documentary, providing a unique perspective on his own filmmaking process.

Description: Narrated by Robert Evans, this documentary recounts his rise and fall in Hollywood, offering a candid look at the inner workings of the film industry through the eyes of one of its most colorful characters.

Fact: The title comes from a famous line spoken by Darryl F. Zanuck about Evans during the production of "The Sun Also Rises."

Description: A behind-the-scenes look at the failed attempt to make "The Man Who Killed Don Quixote" by Terry Gilliam, this documentary captures the chaos and challenges of film production. It's a cautionary tale for aspiring filmmakers.

Fact: The film was initially intended to be a promotional piece for the movie but evolved into a documentary about the project's collapse.

Description: An exploration of the various interpretations and conspiracy theories surrounding Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining," this documentary is a fascinating study in film analysis and audience perception.

Fact: The film includes no interviews with the cast or crew of "The Shining," relying solely on the interpretations of fans.

Description: This documentary chronicles the tumultuous production of "Apocalypse Now," highlighting the challenges faced by Francis Ford Coppola. It's a gripping tale of perseverance and the creative process.

Fact: The film was made from behind-the-scenes footage shot by Eleanor Coppola, Francis's wife.

Description: Nathaniel Kahn explores the life and work of his father, the famous architect Louis Kahn, through interviews and visits to his architectural masterpieces, intertwining personal and professional narratives.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: This documentary delves into the art of film editing, featuring interviews with legendary editors and directors. It's an eye-opener on how editing shapes the narrative and emotional impact of films.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This documentary explores the transition from film to digital in the movie industry, featuring interviews with industry giants like Martin Scorsese and Christopher Nolan. It's a must-watch for understanding the evolution of filmmaking technology.

Fact: Keanu Reeves not only narrates but also co-produced this film, showcasing his deep interest in the technical aspects of cinema.

Description: Mark Cousins's epic 15-part documentary series traces the history of cinema from its inception to the present day, offering a comprehensive look at film movements, directors, and innovations.

Fact: The series was broadcast on More4 in the UK and has since been adapted into a book.

Description: A tribute to cinematography, this documentary showcases the work of some of the greatest cinematographers in film history, offering insights into their techniques and philosophies.

Fact: It was the first documentary to focus solely on the art of cinematography.