10 Unmissable Documentaries About South America You Need to Watch
Documentary films provide a compelling way to explore the vast and diverse cultures, histories, and landscapes of South America. These films can offer viewers a deeper understanding of the continent's rich heritage, from ancient civilizations to modern-day societal challenges.
For those seeking to broaden their horizons and immerse themselves in the vibrant stories of South America, documentaries present an accessible and vivid medium, revealing the region's multifaceted character through powerful storytelling. Whether delving into natural wonders, historical events, or social issues, these curated documentaries offer an enriching glimpse into the heart and soul of South America.
1) "The Salt of the Earth" by Wim Wenders (2014)
"The Salt of the Earth" is a biographical documentary directed by Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salgado. It highlights the life and career of Brazilian photographer SebastiĂŁo Salgado.
The film showcases Salgado's photographic projects, which often focus on marginalized communities and social issues. His work includes powerful images from regions affected by conflict, starvation, and migration.
Wenders combines interviews, archival footage, and Salgado's own photographs. This approach provides a comprehensive view of the photographer's journey and artistic vision.
The documentary underscores the emotional and physical challenges Salgado faced in his career. It also explores the impact of his experiences on his personal life.
More information can be found on Wikipedia.
2) "The Motorcycle Diaries" directed by Walter Salles (2004)
"The Motorcycle Diaries," directed by Walter Salles, offers a compelling exploration of Ernesto "Che" Guevara's early years. This biographical road film portrays Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado traveling across South America on a motorcycle.
The journey takes place in 1952, capturing their experiences and the people they meet along the way. Through their eyes, viewers witness the diverse landscapes and cultures of South America.
As they travel, Guevara’s perspective on social justice begins to form. The film effectively illustrates the moments and interactions that influenced his later role as a revolutionary leader.
Salles' direction, combined with JosĂ© Rivera's screenplay adaptation of Guevara’s memoirs, provides a deeply personal and historical narrative. Gael GarcĂa Bernal’s portrayal of Guevara adds emotional depth to the film.
The cinematography captures the scenic beauty and hardships encountered during their adventure. It emphasizes the transformative impact the trip had on Guevara's ideology and future.
For those interested, more detailed information about the film can be found on Wikipedia or IMDb.
3) "When Two Worlds Collide" by Heidi Brandenburg (2016)
"When Two Worlds Collide" is a powerful documentary directed by Heidi Brandenburg and Mathew Orzel. It highlights the intense conflict between indigenous communities and government forces in the Peruvian Amazon.
The film focuses on the actions of Alberto Pizango, an indigenous environmental activist determined to protect his homeland from large-scale environmental destruction. His opposition is met with strong resistance from then-President Alan GarcĂa, who aggressively pursued economic development at the cost of the environment.
The documentary presents a harrowing account of the 2009 confrontation, capturing the moral and political complexities without resorting to simple hero-villain narratives. It underscores the stakes involved in the fight to preserve the Amazon rainforest and the cultural identities of its indigenous inhabitants.
The documentary was well received for its immersive and balanced portrayal, often praised for its ability to convey the urgency and gravity of environmental activism in South America.
For more information, visit the IMDb page for When Two Worlds Collide.
4) "Cocaine Cowboys" directed by Billy Corben (2006)
Directed by Billy Corben, "Cocaine Cowboys" is a compelling documentary that delves into the rise of the cocaine trade in Miami. The film focuses on the notorious cocaine dealer Jon Roberts, known as the Medellin Cartel's American representative.
The documentary paints a vivid picture of Miami's drug war during the 1980s. Through interviews and real footage, it illustrates the city's transformation into a crime epicenter due to the influx of cocaine.
Produced by Alfred Spellman and Billy Corben through Rakontur, this film highlights the violent and chaotic environment of Miami during this time. It also sheds light on the social and economic impact of the drug trade.
Viewers can expect an engaging blend of crime, history, and personal stories. The gripping narrative and extensive research make it a must-watch for those interested in crime documentaries.
For more information, visit the IMDb page for "Cocaine Cowboys".
5) "PantaleĂłn y las visitadoras" directed by Francisco Lombardi (1999)
"PantaleĂłn y las visitadoras," a film directed by Francisco Lombardi, offers a satirical look into the complexities of morality and corruption within a military setting in the Peruvian Amazon.
The film is an adaptation of Mario Vargas Llosa's comic novel by the same name, known in English as "Captain Pantoja and the Special Services."
The plot revolves around Captain Pantaleon Pantoja, a diligent and upright Peruvian army officer. Tasked with creating a special service to provide "visitors" (prostitutes) to soldiers stationed in remote jungle outposts, he faces numerous ethical dilemmas.
Lombardi's direction highlights the absurdity and humor in the bureaucratic and moral conflicts Pantoja encounters.
This 1999 film was Peru’s official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 72nd Academy Awards, though it did not receive a nomination. The film remains significant for its compelling blend of satire and social critique, capturing the essence of Vargas Llosa's original narrative.
For more information on the film, visit its IMDb page.
6) "Salinger" directed by Shane Salerno (2013)
"Salinger," a documentary film directed by Shane Salerno, examines the life of reclusive writer J.D. Salinger. It features interviews with friends, historians, and journalists to provide insights into his personal and professional life.
The film premiered at the 40th annual Telluride Film Festival and was later showcased on the opening night of the Toronto International Film Festival.
Shane Salerno dedicated ten years to create this documentary, aiming to answer key questions about Salinger. The film offers a detailed exploration of Salinger’s enigmatic personality and his impact on literature.
Though it received mixed reviews, with some critics calling it broad yet shallow, it remains a significant attempt to uncover the mysteries surrounding the elusive author.
More information on "Salinger"
7) "The Pearl Button" by Patricio Guzmán (2015)
"The Pearl Button" is a 2015 documentary directed by acclaimed Chilean filmmaker Patricio Guzmán. He explores Chile's history, focusing on the indigenous peoples of Patagonia and the impacts of colonialism and dictatorship.
The film interweaves the natural beauty and significance of water with the tragic stories of political and social upheaval. Water serves as a central metaphor connecting diverse narratives.
Visually stunning and deeply reflective, "The Pearl Button" won the Silver Bear for Best Script at the Berlin International Film Festival. It also received the Lumières Award for Best Documentary, highlighting its critical acclaim.
For more information about the film, visit IMDb.
8) "City of God" directed by Fernando Meirelles (2002)
"City of God" is a Brazilian crime drama film directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia Lund, released in 2002. The film is based on real events that took place in the 1960s and 1970s in the City of God neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro.
The story follows two young men, Rocket and Li'l ZĂ©, as they navigate their way through a violent and crime-ridden environment. Rocket dreams of becoming a photographer, while Li'l ZĂ© becomes a powerful drug dealer. Their contrasting paths provide a glimpse into the social issues and challenges faced by residents of the slums.
The film was critically acclaimed for its gritty realism, dynamic storytelling, and powerful performances from a largely non-professional cast. It received several awards and nominations, including four Academy Award nominations.
"City of God" also had a significant impact on the representation of Latin American cinema on the global stage. Its success helped to draw attention to the talent and stories emerging from the region.
More information about "City of God" can be found on its IMDb page.
9) "Waste Land" by Lucy Walker (2010)
"Waste Land" is a documentary by Lucy Walker that highlights the transformative power of art. The film follows Brazilian artist Vik Muniz, known for creating art from unconventional materials.
Set in the world's largest landfill, Jardim Gramacho, outside Rio de Janeiro, Muniz collaborates with catadores, pickers of recyclable materials. He turns their collected waste into stunning portraits.
This process brings dignity and recognition to the catadores, emphasizing their crucial role in recycling. The film vividly portrays their lives, struggles, and innate creativity.
Walker's direction captures the beauty found in discarded objects. "Waste Land" gained significant acclaim, bagging numerous awards and an Oscar nomination.
For more details, visit the IMDb page.
10) "The Two Escobars" by Jeff Zimbalist (2010)
"The Two Escobars" is a documentary directed by Jeff and Michael Zimbalist that explores the intertwined lives of soccer player Andrés Escobar and drug lord Pablo Escobar.
This film sheds light on how these two prominent figures impacted Colombian society in the 1990s.
AndrĂ©s Escobar was a celebrated Colombian soccer star. Pablo Escobar, on the other hand, was infamous for his violent control over the MedellĂn drug cartel.
The documentary adeptly captures how their lives, though vastly different, crossed paths due to the deep influence both had in Colombia.
The filmmakers use an array of interviews and archival footage. This helps to illustrate the complex relationship between sports, crime, and politics during that era. By weaving together these narratives, the film provides a powerful commentary on the broader social issues facing Colombia.
"The Two Escobars" stands out for its compelling storytelling and comprehensive research. It offers a vivid portrait of a turbulent period in Colombian history.
For those interested in the intersection of sports and political drama, this documentary is a must-watch.
More information about "The Two Escobars" can be found on IMDb.
Importance of Documentaries in Highlighting South American Culture
Documentaries play a crucial role in presenting the diverse and multifaceted culture of South America by shining a light on indigenous communities and significantly influencing tourism and global perceptions.
Representation of Indigenous Communities
Through documentaries, the rich and varied traditions of South America's indigenous populations are brought to the forefront.
Films focusing on these communities highlight their unique languages, customs, and traditional practices. These visual narratives offer a platform for indigenous voices, often underrepresented in mainstream media.
For instance, works like "Embrace of the Serpent" portray the deep spiritual connection indigenous people have with nature. This representation encourages respect and appreciation for their viewpoints and ensures their cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
Documentaries not only educate audiences about the challenges these communities face but also celebrate their resilience and contributions to society.
Impact on Tourism and Global Perception
Documentaries about South America's natural beauty and heritage stimulate interest in tourism.
By showcasing stunning landscapes such as Patagonia, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Andes Mountains, films entice travelers seeking adventure and cultural enrichment. Titles like "Street Food: Latin America" emphasize the region's culinary traditions, drawing food enthusiasts from around the globe.
Additionally, documentaries play a pivotal role in crafting the world's image of South America. Films that critically examine political and social dynamics, such as "War on Democracy," provide a more nuanced understanding of the region's history and current affairs. They challenge stereotypes and promote a more informed and empathetic view of South American countries.
Themes Explored in South American Documentaries
South American documentaries frequently highlight the complex political landscape, rich biodiversity, and diverse cultural expressions of the region. Through various lenses, they provide profound insights into these essential elements.
Political History and Social Movements
South America has a storied history of political upheaval and revolutionary movements. Films often focus on significant events such as the military dictatorships in Argentina and Chile, exploring themes of human rights violations and justice.
For example, Bus 174 documents a 2000 bus hijacking in Rio de Janeiro, shedding light on systemic social issues. Documentaries like these offer an unfiltered look at the struggles for democracy and the resilience of social movements across different countries.
Biodiversity and Environmental Issues
South America is home to vast rainforests, diverse wildlife, and critical ecosystems. Documentaries such as The Nature of Ayahuasca delve into the traditional use and environmental significance of plants like Ayahuasca used by indigenous communities.
Other films focus on the ecological threats facing the Amazon and the Andes, highlighting topics such as deforestation, climate change, and conservation efforts. These documentaries emphasize the urgency of protecting South America's unique and irreplaceable natural habitats.
Art, Music, and Cultural Expression
The continent’s rich cultural tapestry is vividly depicted through documentaries on art and music. Films exploring Latin American literature, like those featuring Borges and Neruda, offer insights into the intellectual heritage of the region.
Additionally, documentaries on musical traditions like Tango in Argentina or Samba in Brazil showcase how these art forms convey cultural identity and social narratives. These films celebrate the vibrancy and creativity that define South America's cultural landscape.
Each of these themes is crucial for understanding the depth and complexity of South America, making its documentaries essential viewing for anyone interested in the region.
