Description: Set in an Alabama prison, this documentary follows inmates participating in a Vipassana meditation program, exploring how mindfulness can transform even the most hardened individuals.

Fact: The film was the first to document the effects of Vipassana meditation in a prison setting in the United States.

Description: An American filmmaker poses as an Indian guru to explore the nature of faith and self-discovery, leading to unexpected personal transformations for both him and his followers.

Fact: The director, Vikram Gandhi, actually studied at Columbia University before embarking on this unique social experiment.

Description: A series of interviews with Joseph Campbell, this documentary explores the role of myths in our lives, offering profound insights into human nature, spirituality, and the search for meaning.

Fact: The series was originally broadcast on PBS and has since become a classic in the study of mythology and its impact on personal growth.

Description: This film explores the concept of the law of attraction, suggesting that positive thinking can manifest one's desires. It's a fascinating look at how our thoughts shape our reality, making it a perfect fit for our self-discovery theme.

Fact: The Secret became a cultural phenomenon, selling millions of copies worldwide and sparking numerous discussions about the power of positive thinking.

Description: Dr. Wayne Dyer explores the shift from ambition to meaning, offering insights into how we can find true purpose and fulfillment in life.

Fact: The film was inspired by Dyer's book of the same name, which became a bestseller.

Description: After a personal health crisis, Tom Shadyac, the director, sets out to explore what's wrong with our world and how we can fix it, leading to a profound journey of self-discovery.

Fact: Shadyac, known for directing comedies like "Ace Ventura," sold most of his possessions to live a simpler life after making this documentary.

Description: This film delves into the life of Paramahansa Yogananda, the Indian yogi who introduced yoga and meditation to the West. It's a journey of spiritual awakening and self-realization.

Fact: Yogananda's book "Autobiography of a Yogi" has inspired millions, including notable figures like Steve Jobs.

Description: Happy investigates what makes people happy, from the slums of Kolkata to the beaches of Denmark. It's an uplifting journey that challenges conventional notions of happiness and provides insights into what truly matters in life.

Fact: The film was inspired by the director's own quest for happiness after losing his job, leading him to explore the subject globally.

Description: Featuring Dr. Gabor Maté, this documentary explores how understanding and healing trauma can lead to profound personal growth and self-discovery.

Fact: Dr. Maté's work on trauma and addiction has influenced many in the field of psychology and self-help.

Description: This film explores the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, focusing on how his anthroposophical insights can guide us towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world.

Fact: Steiner's ideas have influenced education, agriculture, and medicine, with Waldorf schools being one of his most well-known legacies.

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores how our brains construct reality, including episodes on altered states like hypnosis and meditation.

Fact: The series was nominated for a BAFTA TV Award for Best Specialist Factual.

Description: Although a narrative film, it's based on the true story of Kaspar Hauser, whose life story raises questions about consciousness, identity, and the effects of isolation.

Fact: Directed by Werner Herzog, known for his exploration of human nature and consciousness.

Description: This film explores the powerful psychedelic compound DMT, known for inducing profound spiritual experiences. It features interviews with scientists, shamans, and users, providing a comprehensive look at its effects on consciousness.

Fact: The film was inspired by Dr. Rick Strassman's book of the same name, detailing his groundbreaking research into DMT.

Description: A personal journey into the world of lucid dreaming, this documentary follows a man's quest to control his dreams, exploring the boundaries between reality and the dream state.

Fact: The filmmaker, Alex Topaller, used his own experiences with lucid dreaming to craft this introspective film.

Description: This documentary examines the life and work of Terence McKenna, a philosopher and ethnobotanist known for his theories on psychedelics and the nature of consciousness.

Fact: McKenna's famous "Stoned Ape Theory" is discussed, suggesting that the use of psilocybin mushrooms by early humans led to the development of human consciousness.

Description: This film investigates the origins of human consciousness, exploring how our ancestors' brains evolved to create the complex mental landscape we experience today.

Fact: Features interviews with renowned scientists like Steven Pinker and Daniel Dennett.

Description: A documentary that delves into the history, science, and cultural impact of psychedelics, featuring interviews with key figures in the psychedelic movement.

Fact: The film includes rare footage of Timothy Leary, a prominent advocate for psychedelic research.

Description: While not strictly about altered states, this documentary explores the mind of Alan Moore, whose work often delves into altered perceptions and consciousness.

Fact: Alan Moore is known for his graphic novels like "Watchmen" and "V for Vendetta."

Description: This PBS series explores the development of the brain from birth to old age, with one episode dedicated to the adolescent brain and its susceptibility to altered states.

Fact: The series won a Peabody Award for its educational value.

Description: This documentary investigates the effects of meditation on the brain, exploring how it can induce altered states of consciousness and improve mental health.

Fact: Features interviews with leading meditation experts and scientists like Richard Davidson.

Description: While not directly about psychotherapy, this documentary delves into the psychological interpretations of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining." It showcases how film analysis can be a form of therapy, allowing viewers to explore their own subconscious through the lens of cinema.

Fact: The film includes interviews with five different theorists, each with their own interpretation of the movie's hidden meanings.

Description: This documentary focuses on the psychological aspects of suicide, capturing the stories of individuals who have attempted or succeeded in jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. It's a poignant exploration of mental health, despair, and the therapeutic interventions that can make a difference.

Fact: The film was made with the cooperation of survivors and families, providing an intimate look at the aftermath of suicide attempts.

Description: This Netflix series provides an accessible introduction to various psychological concepts, including therapy, through engaging storytelling and expert interviews.

Fact: Each episode focuses on a different aspect of the mind, making it a comprehensive look at psychological phenomena.

Description: Following a family's journey to Mongolia to find healing for their autistic son through horse therapy, this film showcases alternative therapeutic methods and the profound impact of animal-assisted therapy.

Fact: The film inspired a book and a subsequent foundation to help other families with autism.

Description: This documentary explores the psychological research behind what makes us happy, including the role of therapy in enhancing well-being. It's an enlightening journey through the science of positive psychology and its applications in therapy.

Fact: The film features interviews with leading researchers in the field of happiness studies.

Description: This PBS documentary series delves into the development of the human brain from infancy to old age, touching on various psychological and therapeutic aspects along the way.

Fact: The series was produced in collaboration with the Dana Foundation, which supports brain research.

Description: This documentary explores the intersection of art and therapy, showing how creative expression can be a powerful tool in psychological healing.

Fact: The film features artists who have used their work as a form of therapy to cope with personal trauma.

Description: Based on Jon Ronson's book, this documentary investigates the world of psychopaths, exploring the psychological assessments used in therapy to identify and treat such individuals.

Fact: Ronson himself narrates the film, providing a personal touch to the exploration of psychopathy.

Description: While primarily about facial features, this documentary series touches on how our faces communicate emotions and the psychological implications, including therapeutic aspects.

Fact: John Cleese hosts the series, bringing humor and insight to the subject matter.

Description: This BBC documentary series explores the history of brain science, including the development of psychotherapy and its impact on understanding mental health.

Fact: The series was presented by Dr. Michael Mosley, known for his engaging style in science communication.

Description: While primarily a narrative film, its exploration of a young boy's ability to see and communicate with the dead has made it a cultural touchstone for discussions on psychic phenomena. This film blurs the line between fiction and potential reality.

Fact: M. Night Shyamalan's film was a massive box office success and has been praised for its twist ending, which has become legendary in cinema history.

Description: This film, while not strictly about psychic abilities, explores the mysterious life of Kaspar Hauser, whose unique experiences and abilities have often been linked to psychic phenomena. It's a fascinating look at how isolation and unusual upbringing might influence one's mental capabilities.

Fact: The film is based on the real-life story of Kaspar Hauser, whose origins and death remain a mystery to this day. It was directed by Werner Herzog, known for his deep dives into human psyche and nature.

Description: This documentary explores the concept of plant consciousness and their potential psychic connections with humans. It delves into experiments suggesting plants can respond to human emotions and thoughts, offering a unique perspective on psychic phenomena in the natural world.

Fact: The film features music by Stevie Wonder, who was inspired by the book of the same name to create an album. It also includes experiments by Cleve Backster, who claimed plants could sense human intentions.

Description: This documentary series follows real-life psychics as they assist police in solving crimes. It provides a firsthand look at how psychic abilities are used in practical, real-world scenarios, offering both skepticism and belief in equal measure.

Fact: The series was produced by Granada Television, and one episode featured the famous psychic, Doris Stokes, who was known for her work with law enforcement.

Description: This documentary investigates the life of a psychic medium, focusing on her ability to communicate with spirits. It provides a personal and intimate look at how psychic abilities impact one's life and those around them.

Fact: The film was part of a series exploring various aspects of the supernatural, and this particular episode focuses on a medium who claims to have helped solve several missing persons cases.

Description: This series documents the lives of children who claim to have psychic abilities, exploring how they cope with these gifts and how they are perceived by society. It's an emotional journey into the minds of young psychics.

Fact: The show often featured experts in the field of parapsychology to help guide and understand the children's experiences.

Description: This documentary follows a group of ghost hunters who claim to use psychic abilities to detect and communicate with spirits. It's a blend of reality TV and documentary, offering a light-hearted yet intriguing look at psychic investigations.

Fact: The film was inspired by the popularity of ghost hunting shows but focuses on individuals who claim psychic abilities as their primary tool.

Description: This documentary explores the scientific research into psychic phenomena, focusing on experiments and studies that attempt to validate or debunk psychic abilities. It's a balanced look at the ongoing debate in parapsychology.

Fact: The film features interviews with both skeptics and proponents of psychic abilities, including well-known figures in the field like Dean Radin.

Description: This documentary follows a renowned mentalist as he performs feats that seem to defy logic, exploring the boundaries between magic, psychology, and psychic abilities. It's an entertaining yet insightful look into the art of mind reading.

Fact: The mentalist featured in the film, Lior Suchard, has performed for numerous celebrities and world leaders, showcasing his abilities on a global stage.

Description: A follow-up to the original series, this documentary revisits some of the most intriguing cases where psychics played a role in solving mysteries, offering new insights and updates on the cases.

Fact: This series includes interviews with law enforcement officers who have worked with psychics, providing a unique perspective on the effectiveness of psychic assistance in investigations.

Description: A deep exploration into how the brain constructs reality, this documentary looks at optical illusions, synesthesia, and the role of memory in shaping our perception.

Fact: Features interviews with Oliver Sacks, the renowned neurologist and author.

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman guides us through the brain's role in perception, with episodes dedicated to how we see, hear, and feel the world around us.

Fact: The series was nominated for a BAFTA award for Best Specialist Factual.

Description: This documentary explores the marvels of human vision, detailing how our eyes capture light and how the brain interprets these signals to create our visual world. It's a fascinating journey into the mechanics of sight and perception.

Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with the Royal National Institute of Blind People to ensure accuracy in depicting visual impairments.

Description: This film delves into the intersection of art and science, exploring how artists manipulate perception through their work and how our brains interpret these visual cues.

Fact: Features works by artists like Salvador Dalí and M.C. Escher, known for their play with perception.

Description: A comprehensive look at all five senses, this documentary series investigates how they work together to create our perception of reality.

Fact: The series was filmed in various locations around the world to showcase different cultural interpretations of sensory experiences.

Description: This documentary follows individuals with unique visual conditions, offering a firsthand look at how different perceptions shape their lives.

Fact: The film includes interviews with people who have conditions like prosopagnosia (face blindness) and synesthesia.

Description: An exploration of how our brain constructs reality, this documentary uses experiments and interviews to challenge our understanding of what is real.

Fact: Features a segment on the famous "rubber hand illusion," demonstrating how our perception can be manipulated.

Description: This film investigates how our perceptions can be manipulated by external factors like media, advertising, and even our own biases.

Fact: Includes a segment on the psychological effects of social media on perception.

Description: A documentary that looks at how technology is changing our perception, from virtual reality to augmented reality, and how these tools are reshaping our understanding of the world.

Fact: The film was produced in partnership with the Virtual Reality Society.

Description: This documentary explores the work of photographers and filmmakers who capture and manipulate perception through their lenses, offering a visual feast of how we see the world.

Fact: Features interviews with renowned photographers like Annie Leibovitz and Steve McCurry.

Description: This film explores the science behind intuition, featuring interviews with neuroscientists, psychologists, and individuals who claim to have made life-changing decisions based on their gut feelings.

Fact: The film was shot in multiple countries to capture diverse cultural perspectives on intuition.

Description: A deep dive into the connection between our gut and our brain, explaining how our digestive system might influence our intuitive decisions.

Fact: The documentary includes an experiment where participants made decisions based on their gut reactions, with surprising results.

Description: This documentary showcases real-life stories where intuition played a pivotal role in survival, creativity, and problem-solving.

Fact: One of the featured stories involves a pilot who safely landed a plane based on an intuitive decision.

Description: Examining the thin line between instinctual reactions and intuitive insights, this film explores how these phenomena manifest in different species.

Fact: The film includes footage of animals exhibiting what appears to be intuitive behavior.

Description: A journey through the lives of people who have harnessed their intuition for success in business, art, and personal life.

Fact: The documentary features a segment on how intuition is taught in some business schools.

Description: This documentary investigates the role of intuition in scientific discovery, featuring interviews with scientists who credit their breakthroughs to intuitive leaps.

Fact: The film includes a segment on the famous "eureka moment" of Archimedes.

Description: Exploring the limits of rational thought, this film looks at how intuition can lead to decisions that defy logical analysis.

Fact: The documentary was inspired by the book "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell.

Description: A look at how intuition plays a role in survival among indigenous tribes and in extreme environments.

Fact: The film crew lived with the tribes for months to capture authentic moments of intuitive decision-making.

Description: This documentary focuses on artists and creators who rely heavily on intuition in their creative process.

Fact: Features interviews with renowned artists who discuss how intuition influences their work.

Description: Examines the role of intuition in alternative medicine and healing practices, showcasing practitioners who use intuition to diagnose and treat.

Fact: The film includes a segment on how intuition is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Description: While not strictly about traditional creativity, this film captures the competitive spirit and dedication of video game players, highlighting the art of gaming.

Fact: It has become a cult classic, inspiring numerous references in pop culture. The film was shot over three years.

Description: A wild ride through the world of street art, this film blurs the line between documentary and art project, exploring the life of Thierry Guetta, who becomes an accidental artist.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. There's debate over whether the entire film is a hoax.

Description: Follow the life of Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi master, as he perfects his craft. This documentary is not just about sushi but about the dedication to excellence and the art of mastering a skill.

Fact: Jiro's sushi restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro, has three Michelin stars. The film was an official selection at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: This documentary follows the life of Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei, showcasing his art, his activism, and his fight against censorship.

Fact: Ai Weiwei was detained by Chinese authorities during the film's production. The film was an official selection at Sundance.

Description: This film captures Marina Abramović's groundbreaking MoMA retrospective, where she sat silently for 700 hours, inviting visitors to sit opposite her. It's a profound look at performance art and the connection between artist and audience.

Fact: The film was nominated for a Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Abramović's performance broke museum attendance records.

Description: The incredible story of Sixto Rodriguez, a Detroit musician who became a superstar in South Africa without knowing it, showcasing the power of music and the mystery of fame.

Fact: Won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Rodriguez's music was banned in South Africa during apartheid.

Description: This intimate portrait of Ushio and Noriko Shinohara, a Japanese artist couple, reveals the complexities of their relationship and artistic collaboration over decades.

Fact: The film won the U.S. Documentary Directing Award at Sundance. Noriko's art was largely overshadowed by Ushio's until this documentary.

Description: This documentary explores the Beatles' touring years, offering a fresh perspective on their music, influence, and the cultural phenomenon they became.

Fact: Directed by Ron Howard, it includes previously unseen footage. The film was released in theaters worldwide.

Description: A visual journey through the lens of photographer Sebastião Salgado, capturing the beauty and brutality of humanity, nature, and the world.

Fact: Directed by Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salgado, Sebastião's son. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: A poignant look at the life and work of Francesca Woodman, a young photographer whose brief life left an indelible mark on the art world.

Fact: The film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance. Francesca's work was rediscovered after her death.

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."

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman takes viewers on a journey through the brain, exploring how it shapes our reality, thoughts, and behaviors.

Fact: David Eagleman is also a best-selling author and has written several books on the brain and perception.

Description: This series dives into various aspects of the mind, including memory, dreams, and mindfulness, making it an essential watch for anyone interested in understanding how we think.

Fact: The series was produced by Vox Media, known for its educational and informative content.

Description: A follow-up to "The Brain Explained," this series delves deeper into specific aspects of the mind, including decision-making, personality, and the unconscious mind.

Fact: It features contributions from various experts in psychology and neuroscience.

Description: Based on the book by Norman Doidge, this documentary explores neuroplasticity, showing how the brain can change and adapt throughout life.

Fact: The film includes real-life stories of individuals who have overcome brain injuries through neuroplasticity.

Description: This documentary explores the neuroscience behind creativity, featuring insights from artists, scientists, and neurologists to unravel the mysteries of the creative process.

Fact: It was directed by Jennifer Beamish, who also worked on the documentary "The Brain with David Eagleman."

Description: A five-part series that traces the development of the brain from birth to old age, offering a comprehensive look at how our thinking evolves over a lifetime.

Fact: The series was co-produced by PBS and the David H. Koch Fund for Science.

Description: While not exclusively about thinking, this documentary delves into how we perceive and process faces, which is a significant part of human cognition.

Fact: John Cleese, known for his comedic roles, hosts this series, bringing a light-hearted touch to the subject.

Description: This documentary investigates the potential of the human mind, exploring topics like telepathy, mind control, and the limits of human perception.

Fact: It features interviews with leading experts in psychology and neuroscience.

Description: Michael Mosley explores the history of brain science, from mind control experiments to the study of emotions, providing a historical perspective on how we understand thinking.

Fact: The series was broadcast on BBC Four, known for its in-depth documentaries.

Description: This documentary looks at the psychological strategies and mental games people play, offering insights into the manipulative side of human thinking.

Fact: It was produced by the same team behind the popular series "The Secret History of Our Streets."

Description: This film dramatizes the infamous 1971 Stanford Prison Experiment, where students were assigned roles as prisoners or guards, leading to shocking results. It's a must-watch to understand how quickly normal people can adopt extreme behaviors under certain conditions.

Fact: The film was shot in the same building where the original experiment took place, adding an eerie authenticity to the setting.

Description: While more of a dark comedy, this film is based on real psychological experiments conducted by the U.S. military to create psychic warriors, offering a humorous yet thought-provoking look at military psychology.

Fact: The film stars George Clooney and Ewan McGregor, blending fact with fiction in an entertaining narrative.

Description: Focusing on Stanley Milgram's obedience experiments, this documentary explores the ethical dilemmas and the impact of his work on social psychology. It's a deep dive into how far people will go to obey authority.

Fact: The film uses a unique narrative style, blending documentary and drama, to portray Milgram's life and work.

Description: Although not exclusively about experiments, this documentary series by Adam Curtis discusses how political leaders use psychological tactics to control populations, drawing on psychological theories.

Fact: It was nominated for a BAFTA award for Best Factual Series.

Description: This documentary provides raw footage and interviews from the original Stanford Prison Experiment, offering a firsthand look at the psychological turmoil experienced by participants.

Fact: It includes interviews with the experiment's participants years later, reflecting on their experiences.

Description: This documentary series covers various psychological experiments, including Milgram's obedience study, the Asch conformity experiments, and more, providing a broad overview of human behavior studies.

Fact: The series was produced by the BBC, ensuring high-quality production values and in-depth analysis.

Description: While not solely about experiments, this documentary series by Adam Curtis explores how Freud's theories influenced the manipulation of the masses, touching on psychological experiments in consumer behavior.

Fact: It has been praised for its critical examination of the role of psychology in shaping modern society.

Description: This series includes segments on mind control experiments, exploring how scientists have tried to manipulate human behavior through psychological means.

Fact: The documentary features interviews with key figures in the field of neuroscience and psychology.

Description: This film delves into the psychological experiment known as "The Most Dangerous Game," where participants were subjected to extreme conditions to study survival instincts.

Fact: The documentary includes reenactments to illustrate the harrowing experiences of the participants.

Description: While primarily about the writer Alan Moore, this documentary touches on psychological experiments in the context of his work, exploring the psyche through his creative process.

Fact: Alan Moore himself provides a deep dive into his thoughts on psychology, magic, and creativity.