- Mardi Gras: Made in China (2005)
- Rio de Janeiro Carnival (2013)
- Venice Carnival: Masks and Mystery (2009)
- Notting Hill Carnival (2018)
- Carnival in Cologne (2015)
- The Rio Connection (2017)
- Trinidad and Tobago Carnival (2010)
- The Carnival of Binche (2012)
- Barranquilla Carnival (2016)
- The Carnival of Oruro (2014)
Carnivals are not just about the rides and the cotton candy; they are a celebration of culture, tradition, and human spirit. This curated list of documentaries delves into the heart of various carnivals around the globe, offering viewers an intimate look at the preparation, the people, and the passion behind these spectacular events. Whether you're a fan of the samba rhythms of Rio or the masquerade of Venice, these films will transport you to the heart of the festivities, showcasing the diversity and the universal joy of carnival celebrations.

Mardi Gras: Made in China (2005)
Description: This documentary follows the journey of Mardi Gras beads from their production in China to the streets of New Orleans, highlighting the global economy's impact on local traditions.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Cultural and Artistic Programming.


Rio de Janeiro Carnival (2013)
Description: This documentary captures the essence of the world's most famous carnival, showcasing the samba parades, the costumes, and the infectious energy of Rio's streets during the festival.
Fact: The film was shot over three years to capture the full cycle of preparation and celebration. It includes exclusive interviews with samba school leaders.


Venice Carnival: Masks and Mystery (2009)
Description: Explore the centuries-old tradition of the Venice Carnival, where masks hide identities and the city transforms into a stage for historical reenactments and lavish balls.
Fact: The film features rare footage of the secret societies that still exist in Venice, adding an element of mystery to the documentary.


Notting Hill Carnival (2018)
Description: Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of London's Notting Hill Carnival, exploring its history, the music, and the community spirit that makes it one of Europe's largest street festivals.
Fact: The documentary includes interviews with the founders of the carnival and features behind-the-scenes footage of the parade preparations.


Carnival in Cologne (2015)
Description: Experience the unique German carnival in Cologne, known for its satirical floats, street parties, and the famous "Weiberfastnacht" where women take over the city.
Fact: The film was shot during the peak of the carnival season, capturing the spirit of the event in all its chaotic glory.


The Rio Connection (2017)
Description: This documentary follows the lives of carnival participants, from the samba dancers to the float builders, revealing the personal stories behind the spectacle.
Fact: It was the first documentary to be filmed entirely in 4K, providing stunning visuals of the carnival.


Trinidad and Tobago Carnival (2010)
Description: Discover the birthplace of calypso and steelpan music, where the carnival is not just a festival but a cultural phenomenon that defines the nation's identity.
Fact: The film won the Best Documentary at the Trinidad and Tobago Film Festival.


The Carnival of Binche (2012)
Description: Witness the UNESCO-recognized carnival in Belgium, where men dressed as Gilles parade through the streets, throwing oranges to the crowd in a centuries-old tradition.
Fact: The documentary was filmed over several years to capture the full cycle of the carnival, including the secretive preparations.


Barranquilla Carnival (2016)
Description: Explore Colombia's largest carnival, known for its colorful costumes, traditional dances, and the famous "Battle of Flowers."
Fact: The film features exclusive access to the carnival's planning committee, showcasing the logistical challenges of organizing such a massive event.


The Carnival of Oruro (2014)
Description: Delve into Bolivia's most important cultural event, where indigenous and Catholic traditions blend in a spectacular display of dance, music, and devotion.
Fact: The documentary includes interviews with the "Diablada" dancers, who perform a dance representing the battle between good and evil.
