Behind the Scenes: Documentaries on Filmmaking

Behind the Scenes: Documentaries on Filmmaking Photography and Film

Ever wondered what goes on behind the camera? This collection of documentaries offers an insider's look at the filmmaking process, from script to screen. Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a film enthusiast, or simply curious about the magic of movies, these films provide a fascinating glimpse into the creative and often chaotic world of cinema. Each documentary not only showcases the art of storytelling but also the passion, dedication, and sometimes the sheer madness involved in bringing stories to life.

Burden of Dreams (1982)
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Burden of Dreams (1982)

Description: Werner Herzog's struggle to make "Fitzcarraldo" in the Amazon jungle is the subject of this documentary, showcasing the director's relentless pursuit of his vision.

Fact: Herzog famously dragged a 320-ton steamship over a mountain for the film, an act of sheer determination.

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The Kid Stays in the Picture (2002)
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The Kid Stays in the Picture (2002)

Description: A biographical documentary about Robert Evans, the legendary Hollywood producer, narrated by Evans himself.

Fact: The title comes from a famous line said by Darryl F. Zanuck about a young Evans.

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Lost in La Mancha (2002)
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Lost in La Mancha (2002)

Description: This documentary follows Terry Gilliam's doomed attempt to make "The Man Who Killed Don Quixote," offering a raw look at the challenges of filmmaking.

Fact: The film was initially intended to be a making-of documentary but became a chronicle of a film that never was.

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Jodorowsky's Dune (2013)
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Jodorowsky's Dune (2013)

Description: This documentary recounts Alejandro Jodorowsky's ambitious but ultimately unrealized attempt to adapt Frank Herbert's "Dune" into a film.

Fact: Jodorowsky's vision for "Dune" influenced many subsequent sci-fi films, including "Star Wars."

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Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse (1991)
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Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse (1991)

Description: An in-depth look at the chaotic production of "Apocalypse Now," this documentary captures the madness and genius of Francis Ford Coppola.

Fact: The film was shot by Eleanor Coppola, Francis's wife, who documented the entire production process.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
American Movie (1999)
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American Movie (1999)

Description: Follow the journey of Mark Borchardt, an aspiring filmmaker from Wisconsin, as he attempts to make his low-budget horror film "Coven."

Fact: The documentary itself became a cult classic, winning the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Cutting Edge: The Magic of Movie Editing (2004)
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The Cutting Edge: The Magic of Movie Editing (2004)

Description: This documentary delves into the often overlooked art of film editing, showing how it shapes the narrative and emotional impact of films. It's a must-watch for understanding the power of the edit.

Fact: The film features interviews with legendary editors like Walter Murch and Thelma Schoonmaker, who edited for Martin Scorsese.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
Side by Side (2012)
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Side by Side (2012)

Description: Keanu Reeves explores the transition from film to digital in this documentary, discussing the implications for filmmakers and the future of cinema.

Fact: Reeves not only hosts but also produced the film, showcasing his passion for the craft.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Hamster Factor and Other Tales of Twelve Monkeys (1997)
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The Hamster Factor and Other Tales of Twelve Monkeys (1997)

Description: A behind-the-scenes look at the making of "12 Monkeys," this documentary captures the creative process of Terry Gilliam and his team.

Fact: The title refers to a scene in the film where Bruce Willis's character talks about hamsters.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
Visions of Light (1992)
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Visions of Light (1992)

Description: This documentary explores the art of cinematography through interviews with some of the greatest cinematographers in film history.

Fact: It features interviews with cinematographers like Conrad L. Hall and Vittorio Storaro.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
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