Top Documentaries of 2009
Essential Viewing for Film Enthusiasts
The year 2009 saw a remarkable collection of documentaries that captivated audiences and critics alike. These films explored a wide range of subjects, from social issues to personal stories, offering viewers unique insights into various aspects of the human experience.
Several outstanding documentaries from 2009 received critical acclaim but struggled to find widespread commercial success. Despite their limited theatrical releases, many of these films made significant impacts through word-of-mouth, festival screenings, and critical recognition. The documentaries of 2009 demonstrated the power of non-fiction storytelling to shed light on important topics and challenge viewers' perspectives.
1) The Cove (2009)
The Cove is a groundbreaking documentary that exposed the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Taiji, Japan. Directed by Louie Psihoyos, the film follows a team of activists and filmmakers on a covert mission to document the secretive dolphin capture industry.
Using hidden cameras and advanced technology, the crew infiltrates a heavily guarded cove where dolphins are herded and slaughtered. The film reveals the shocking scale of the hunts and the methods used to capture dolphins for marine parks worldwide.
The Cove combines elements of espionage thriller and nature documentary to create a compelling narrative. It features stunning underwater footage alongside tense moments as the team risks arrest to gather evidence.
The documentary sparked international outrage and raised awareness about dolphin conservation. It won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2010.
The Cove's impact extended beyond the screen, inspiring activism and policy changes. It remains a powerful example of how documentary filmmaking can drive social change and environmental awareness.
2) Food, Inc. (2009)
Food, Inc. exposed the hidden realities of America's food industry. Directed by Robert Kenner, this eye-opening documentary investigated corporate farming practices and their impacts on health, environment, and animal welfare.
The film featured interviews with farmers, industry insiders, and food experts. It shed light on topics like factory farming, genetic engineering of crops, and the consolidation of food production by large corporations.
Food, Inc. raised important questions about food safety, sustainability, and the treatment of workers in the industry. It encouraged viewers to consider the origins of their food and make more informed choices as consumers.
The documentary received critical acclaim and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature. It sparked public discussions about food policy and agricultural practices in the United States.
Food, Inc. left a lasting impact on audiences, influencing many to seek out organic and locally-sourced food options. The film continues to be referenced in debates about food production and consumer awareness.
More information on Food, Inc.
3) Anvil! The Story of Anvil
Anvil! The Story of Anvil (2008) chronicles the journey of Canadian heavy metal band Anvil. Directed by Sacha Gervasi, this rockumentary follows founding members Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner as they navigate the music industry decades after their 1980s heyday.
The film captures the band's unwavering dedication to their craft, despite facing numerous setbacks. It showcases their struggles with financial difficulties, unsuccessful tours, and the challenges of balancing family life with rock star dreams.
Gervasi's intimate portrayal reveals the genuine friendship between Kudlow and Reiner, childhood friends who never lost sight of their musical aspirations. Their perseverance in the face of adversity forms the emotional core of the documentary.
Anvil! received critical acclaim for its honest depiction of the less glamorous side of the music industry. It won several awards, including Best Documentary at the 2009 Evening Standard British Film Awards.
The film not only revitalized interest in Anvil's music but also sparked discussions about passion, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams regardless of age or circumstances.
More information on Anvil! The Story of Anvil
4) The September Issue
"The September Issue" (2009) offers a captivating glimpse into the world of high fashion publishing. This documentary follows the creation of Vogue magazine's iconic September 2007 issue under the guidance of editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
Director R.J. Cutler provides unprecedented access to the inner workings of Vogue. Viewers witness the meticulous process of curating content, selecting photos, and making editorial decisions.
The film showcases the dynamic between Wintour and creative director Grace Coddington. Their contrasting approaches to fashion and visual storytelling create compelling tension throughout the documentary.
"The September Issue" reveals the immense effort and creativity behind producing a major fashion magazine. It highlights the influence Vogue wields in shaping trends and public perception of style.
The documentary received critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of the fashion industry. It offers a rare look at the personalities and processes that drive one of the world's most influential publications.
More information on The September Issue
5) Capitalism: A Love Story (2009)
Michael Moore's documentary examines the 2008 financial crisis and its impact on American society. The film critiques the capitalist system and corporate influence in the United States.
Moore interviews families facing foreclosure and workers who have lost their jobs. He also speaks with financial experts and politicians about the causes of the economic meltdown.
The documentary explores controversial practices like "dead peasant" insurance policies taken out by companies on their employees. It questions whether capitalism aligns with democratic and religious values.
Moore uses his signature style of humor and confrontation to tackle complex economic issues. He attempts to make "citizen's arrests" of Wall Street executives and wraps crime scene tape around bank buildings.
The film received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its emotional power and timely subject matter. Others felt it oversimplified complex economic concepts.
6) Good Hair
"Good Hair" (2009) is a thought-provoking documentary directed by Jeff Stilson and produced by comedian Chris Rock. The film explores the complex relationship between African American women and their hair.
Rock embarks on a journey to understand the cultural significance of hair in the Black community. He visits hair salons, attends the Bronner Brothers Hair Show, and even travels to India to investigate the source of hair used in weaves.
The documentary delves into the use of chemical relaxers, examining their potential health risks. It also explores the economic aspects of the Black hair care industry, which is valued in the billions of dollars.
Through interviews with celebrities, hairstylists, and everyday people, "Good Hair" offers insights into the societal pressures and beauty standards faced by Black women. The film balances humor with serious discussions about identity and self-image.
Rock's engaging narration and curiosity drive the documentary forward, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience. "Good Hair" received critical acclaim for its honest and entertaining approach to a rarely discussed subject.
7) Tyson (2009)
"Tyson" offers an intimate look into the life of former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson. Directed by James Toback, this documentary showcases Tyson's raw and unfiltered reflections on his tumultuous career and personal life.
The film features extensive interviews with Tyson himself, providing a candid perspective on his rise to fame, controversial moments, and eventual downfall. Archival footage and photographs complement Tyson's narration, creating a comprehensive portrait of the boxer's journey.
Toback's documentary explores Tyson's troubled childhood, his meteoric ascent in the boxing world, and the scandals that plagued his later years. The film doesn't shy away from addressing Tyson's legal issues and personal struggles.
"Tyson" received critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of a complex figure. It premiered at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival and was widely released in 2009. The documentary offers viewers a unique opportunity to see Tyson's story through his own eyes.
8) It Might Get Loud (2008)
"It Might Get Loud" is a compelling documentary directed by Davis Guggenheim. The film brings together three iconic guitarists: Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White.
Guggenheim explores the musical journeys and creative processes of these rock legends. The documentary showcases their unique playing styles and the influences that shaped their careers.
A highlight of the film is the summit where the three guitarists meet. They share stories, demonstrate techniques, and even play each other's songs for the first time on camera.
The documentary delves into the history of the electric guitar and its impact on rock music. It features intimate interviews and behind-the-scenes footage of each artist in their element.
"It Might Get Loud" received praise for its insightful look into the world of guitar-driven rock. It offers fans a rare glimpse into the minds and methods of these influential musicians.
9) The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers (2009)
This documentary explores the life and actions of Daniel Ellsberg, a former military analyst who leaked classified documents about the Vietnam War to the press in 1971. Directed by Judith Ehrlich and Rick Goldsmith, the film delves into one of the most significant whistleblowing events in U.S. history.
Ellsberg's decision to release the Pentagon Papers exposed the U.S. government's decades-long deception regarding the Vietnam War. The film chronicles his transformation from a Pentagon insider to a man determined to end the conflict.
The documentary features interviews with key figures involved in the Pentagon Papers controversy, including Ellsberg himself. It also incorporates archival footage and reenactments to illustrate the tense political climate of the era.
"The Most Dangerous Man in America" examines the ethical dilemmas faced by Ellsberg and the far-reaching consequences of his actions. The film highlights the importance of government transparency and the role of the press in holding those in power accountable.
10) No Impact Man (2009)
No Impact Man follows Colin Beavan and his family as they attempt to live for one year with zero environmental impact in New York City. Directed by Laura Gabbert and Justin Schein, this documentary showcases the challenges and revelations of extreme eco-friendly living.
The Beavan family gives up electricity, motorized transportation, and non-local food. They also stop using disposable products like toilet paper. The film explores the personal and societal implications of their experiment.
Throughout the year, Colin, his wife Michelle, and their young daughter face numerous obstacles. They navigate the difficulties of washing clothes by hand, eating only locally-grown food, and living without modern conveniences.
The documentary raises questions about consumerism, sustainability, and individual responsibility in addressing environmental issues. It presents both the positive and negative aspects of the family's radical lifestyle change.
No Impact Man received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised its thought-provoking nature, while others questioned the practicality of the experiment. The film sparked discussions about sustainable living and environmental awareness.
Impact of Documentaries in 2009
2009 marked a significant year for documentaries, with several films making substantial cultural impacts and garnering critical acclaim.
Cultural Influence
"The Cove" exposed the brutal dolphin hunting practices in Japan, sparking international outrage and conservation efforts. This documentary led to increased awareness of marine mammal protection issues worldwide.
"Food, Inc." shed light on corporate farming practices, influencing viewers' food choices and prompting discussions about sustainable agriculture. The film's impact extended to policy debates on food safety and labeling regulations.
"Capitalism: A Love Story" by Michael Moore stirred public discourse on economic inequality and corporate influence in American politics. It became a talking point in debates about financial reform following the 2008 economic crisis.
Awards and Recognitions
"The Cove" won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2010, cementing its place in cinematic history. The film also received numerous other accolades, including the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Documentary Feature.
"Food, Inc." earned an Oscar nomination and won the Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Documentary. Its critical success helped propel the film's message to a broader audience.
"Burma VJ" gained international recognition for its raw footage of the 2007 Myanmar protests. The film received an Oscar nomination and won the World Cinema Documentary Editing Award at Sundance Film Festival.
These awards elevated the profile of documentary filmmaking, highlighting its power to inform and inspire social change.
Documentary Filmmaking Techniques
Documentary filmmakers employ various storytelling methods and cinematography styles to capture real-life events and convey their messages effectively. These techniques help create compelling narratives and visually engaging films that resonate with audiences.
Storytelling Methods
Documentary storytelling often relies on interviews, archival footage, and observational filming. Filmmakers use voice-over narration to provide context and guide viewers through complex topics. They structure their films with a clear beginning, middle, and end to maintain audience engagement. Some documentaries incorporate reenactments to illustrate historical events or scenarios that cannot be directly filmed. Editing plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative, with filmmakers carefully selecting and arranging footage to build tension, reveal information, and create emotional impact.
Cinematography Styles
Cinematography in documentaries varies depending on the subject matter and filmmaker's vision. Handheld camera work is common for creating an intimate, immediate feel. Static shots are used for interviews or to capture landscapes and environments. Time-lapse photography can illustrate changes over time, while slow motion emphasizes dramatic moments. Aerial shots provide context and scope for large-scale subjects. Lighting techniques range from natural light for authenticity to carefully staged setups for controlled interviews. Color grading enhances mood and visual consistency. Many documentarians opt for a cinéma vérité style, aiming to capture events as they unfold with minimal interference.
