Documentaries That Define Personalities

Description: Featuring Robert S. McNamara, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, this documentary reflects on his life, his role in major historical events like the Vietnam War, and the lessons he learned about war and peace. It's a profound look at decision-making and the moral complexities of leadership.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. McNamara's 11 lessons from the war are a central theme of the film.

Description: Directed by Werner Herzog, this documentary examines the life and death of Timothy Treadwell, who lived among grizzly bears in Alaska. It's a study in human nature, the allure of wilderness, and the fine line between passion and obsession.

Fact: Herzog uses Treadwell's own footage, providing an intimate look at his life. The film includes audio of Treadwell's last moments, which Herzog chose not to include in the final cut.

Description: A quirky and compelling look at the world of competitive arcade gaming, focusing on the rivalry between Steve Wiebe and Billy Mitchell for the highest score on the game Donkey Kong. It's a tale of obsession, rivalry, and the quest for recognition.

Fact: The film has been praised for its storytelling, making a niche hobby universally relatable. It inspired a video game called "The King of Fighters '98: Ultimate Match."

Description: This film profiles Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi master, and his pursuit of perfection in his craft. It's a meditative exploration of dedication, the art of sushi-making, and the father-son relationship in a traditional Japanese setting.

Fact: Jiro's restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro, has three Michelin stars. The film was shot over the course of a year to capture the meticulous process of sushi preparation.

Description: This documentary follows the quest to find Sixto Rodriguez, a Detroit singer-songwriter who became a cult hero in South Africa without knowing it. It's a story of discovery, the power of music, and the unexpected paths fame can take.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Rodriguez was unaware of his fame in South Africa until the filmmakers found him.

Description: This film challenges the perpetrators of the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66 to reenact their crimes in the style of the movies they love. It's a chilling exploration of memory, guilt, and the glorification of violence.

Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This poignant documentary explores the life and untimely death of Amy Winehouse, the iconic British singer-songwriter. It's a heart-wrenching journey through her rise to fame, her struggles with addiction, and the pressures of the music industry, all told through intimate home videos and interviews with those closest to her.

Fact: The film won the Best Documentary Feature at the 88th Academy Awards. Amy Winehouse's father, Mitch Winehouse, initially opposed the film but later gave his blessing.

Description: This documentary captures Edward Snowden's revelations about global surveillance programs. It's a real-time look at one of the most significant whistleblowers of our time, exploring themes of privacy, security, and the ethics of government surveillance.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Snowden's identity was revealed to the public through this documentary.

Description: This documentary delves into the life of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," exploring his impact on children's television and his philosophy of kindness and understanding. It's a heartwarming look at a man who changed the world through simple acts of love.

Fact: The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $22 million worldwide. It was nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars.

Description: This film captures the audacious story of Philippe Petit, a French high-wire artist who, in 1974, illegally walked between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. It's a testament to human ambition, risk-taking, and the pursuit of an impossible dream.

Fact: The film won the BAFTA for Best British Film and was nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars. Petit's feat was later dramatized in the feature film "The Walk."