Top Documentaries of 2016
Must-Watch Films That Defined the Year
The year 2016 saw a remarkable array of documentaries that captivated audiences and critics alike. These films explored a diverse range of subjects, from true crime to politics, sports, and social issues, offering viewers intimate glimpses into real-life stories and events.
Several documentaries from 2016 stood out for their compelling narratives, innovative storytelling techniques, and ability to shed light on important topics. Some of these films sparked conversations about societal issues, while others provided in-depth looks at fascinating individuals or historical events. The best documentaries of 2016 demonstrated the power of non-fiction filmmaking to inform, inspire, and challenge viewers.
1) 13th (2016)
Ava DuVernay's "13th" is a powerful documentary that examines the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The film's title refers to the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery except as punishment for a crime.
DuVernay presents a compelling argument that the criminal justice system has perpetuated racial inequality. She uses archival footage and interviews with scholars, activists, and politicians to support her thesis.
The documentary traces the history of racial oppression from the end of the Civil War to the present day. It explores how various policies and practices have disproportionately affected African Americans.
"13th" received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking content and skillful presentation. It was nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
The film's impact extended beyond the screen, sparking conversations about systemic racism and criminal justice reform.
2) O.J.: Made in America
"O.J.: Made in America" (2016) stands out as a comprehensive documentary that explores the life and legacy of O.J. Simpson. Directed by Ezra Edelman, this five-part series delves into Simpson's rise to fame, his fall from grace, and the infamous murder trial that captivated the nation.
The film skillfully weaves together Simpson's personal story with broader themes of race, celebrity, and the American justice system. It presents a nuanced examination of how these factors intersected in one of the most publicized criminal cases in U.S. history.
Edelman's work garnered critical acclaim for its in-depth research and compelling narrative structure. The documentary features interviews with key figures involved in Simpson's life and trial, providing multiple perspectives on the events.
"O.J.: Made in America" received numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Its thorough approach and cultural significance make it a standout entry in the documentary genre.
3) Weiner
Weiner is a captivating political documentary that premiered in 2016. The film offers an intimate look at Anthony Weiner's 2013 New York City mayoral campaign.
Directors Josh Kriegman and Elyse Steinberg gained unprecedented access to Weiner and his team. Their fly-on-the-wall approach captures the unfolding drama as Weiner's campaign implodes due to a sexting scandal.
The documentary showcases the intensity of modern political campaigns and media scrutiny. It provides a raw, unfiltered view of a politician's personal and professional life colliding in spectacular fashion.
Weiner received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of a political meltdown. The film won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize for Documentary at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival.
At its core, Weiner explores themes of redemption, ambition, and the impact of personal indiscretions on public life. It offers a compelling case study in crisis management and political communication.
More information on Weiner (2016)
4) Cameraperson
Kirsten Johnson's "Cameraperson" (2016) offers a unique perspective on documentary filmmaking. This autobiographical work showcases footage from Johnson's 25-year career as a cinematographer.
The film weaves together seemingly unconnected scenes from various locations and time periods. It includes clips from boxing matches in Brooklyn, post-war Bosnia, and Nigerian midwives at work.
Johnson's personal life also features in the documentary. Intimate family moments are interspersed with her professional work, blurring the lines between the personal and public.
"Cameraperson" received critical acclaim upon its release. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and won the top prize at Sheffield Doc/Fest.
The film challenges traditional documentary structure. It creates a tapestry of experiences that explore the relationship between filmmaker, subject, and viewer.
More information on Cameraperson (2016)
5) I Am Not Your Negro (2016)
"I Am Not Your Negro" is a powerful documentary directed by Raoul Peck. The film is based on James Baldwin's unfinished manuscript "Remember This House" and explores race relations in America.
Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, the documentary uses Baldwin's original words to examine the lives of civil rights leaders Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr. It interweaves archival footage with contemporary imagery to create a compelling narrative.
The film received critical acclaim for its insightful commentary on racial issues in the United States. It draws parallels between the civil rights movement of the 1960s and present-day racial tensions.
"I Am Not Your Negro" was nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It won the BAFTA Award for Best Documentary and received praise for its thought-provoking content and innovative storytelling approach.
Peck's documentary brings Baldwin's penetrating observations to life, offering viewers a unique perspective on the ongoing struggle for racial equality in America. The film serves as both a historical document and a call to action for contemporary audiences.
6) Before the Flood
"Before the Flood" (2016) is a compelling documentary that explores the critical issue of climate change. Leonardo DiCaprio, serving as both host and producer, travels the globe to witness firsthand the impacts of global warming.
The film takes viewers on a journey through various locations, from the melting ice sheets of Greenland to the flooded streets of Miami. DiCaprio engages with scientists, world leaders, and local communities to gain insights into the challenges posed by climate change.
One of the documentary's strengths is its accessibility. It breaks down complex scientific concepts into understandable terms for a general audience. The film also highlights potential solutions, from renewable energy to sustainable practices.
"Before the Flood" features interviews with influential figures such as Pope Francis and Barack Obama, adding weight to its message. The documentary's stunning visuals and powerful narrative make it a standout in the genre of environmental films.
While presenting a sobering look at the state of our planet, the film ultimately aims to inspire action and hope for a sustainable future.
7) Amanda Knox (2016)
This documentary explores the controversial case of Amanda Knox, an American student accused of murdering her roommate in Italy. Directed by Rod Blackhurst and Brian McGinn, the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2016.
The 92-minute documentary features interviews with Knox herself, providing her perspective on the events surrounding the 2007 death of Meredith Kercher. It also includes insights from key figures involved in the case, such as Raffaele Sollecito and prosecutor Giuliano Mignini.
Amanda Knox examines the intense media scrutiny and public fascination that surrounded the case. The film delves into the complexities of the Italian justice system and the impact of sensationalized reporting on criminal investigations.
The documentary offers a balanced look at the case, presenting various viewpoints and allowing viewers to form their own conclusions. It received positive reviews for its thorough examination of the events and its exploration of broader themes related to justice and media influence.
8) Tower (2016)
Tower is a groundbreaking animated documentary that chronicles the 1966 mass shooting at the University of Texas at Austin. Director Keith Maitland employs innovative rotoscoping techniques to bring survivors' accounts to life.
The film recreates the events of August 1, 1966, when a sniper opened fire from the university's clock tower. It blends archival footage with animated reenactments, providing a unique visual perspective on the tragedy.
Tower focuses on the personal stories of those caught in the crossfire, including students, police officers, and civilians. The documentary highlights acts of heroism and resilience during the 96-minute ordeal.
Maitland's approach offers a fresh take on historical documentary filmmaking. By using animation, the film creates a visceral experience that connects viewers to the events of that fateful day.
Tower received critical acclaim for its storytelling and artistic vision. It won numerous awards, including the Grand Jury Prize at the 2016 South by Southwest Film Festival.
More information on Tower (2016)
9) The Ivory Game (2016)
"The Ivory Game" is a gripping documentary that exposes the dark world of illegal ivory trade. Directed by Kief Davidson and Richard Ladkani, the film takes viewers on a suspenseful journey across Africa and Asia.
The documentary follows wildlife activists and investigators as they confront poachers and ivory traders. It highlights the urgent threat facing African elephants due to the demand for ivory, particularly in China.
With stunning cinematography and a fast-paced narrative, "The Ivory Game" brings attention to the potential extinction of elephants within 15 years if the ivory trade continues unchecked. The film features interviews with key figures in wildlife conservation, including Prince William.
Produced in collaboration with Leonardo DiCaprio, the documentary premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. It later found a wider audience through its release on Netflix.
"The Ivory Game" combines investigative journalism with the tension of a thriller, creating a compelling viewing experience. It serves as a powerful call to action for elephant conservation and the fight against wildlife crime.
10) Gleason
Gleason (2016) offers an intimate look at former NFL player Steve Gleason's life after being diagnosed with ALS. The documentary follows Gleason as he creates video diaries for his unborn son while battling the progressive neurodegenerative disease.
Directed by Clay Tweel, the film showcases Gleason's determination and resilience in the face of adversity. It captures raw moments of joy, struggle, and hope as he navigates his new reality with family and friends by his side.
The documentary gained critical acclaim for its honest portrayal of living with ALS. It premiered at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation and positive reviews from audiences and critics alike.
Gleason's story resonated with viewers, shedding light on the challenges faced by those with ALS and their caregivers. The film also highlights the importance of awareness and support for individuals affected by the disease.
Through its powerful narrative, Gleason demonstrates the strength of the human spirit and the impact one person can have on others. The documentary serves as a testament to Steve Gleason's courage and his efforts to inspire and help others living with ALS.
Significance of Documentary Films
Documentary films play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and shedding light on important issues. They offer unique perspectives on real-world topics and events, engaging audiences in ways that traditional media often cannot.
Understanding the Rise in Popularity
Documentary films have experienced a surge in popularity in recent years. Streaming platforms have made documentaries more accessible to wider audiences, allowing viewers to explore diverse topics from the comfort of their homes. The genre has evolved to include more engaging storytelling techniques, blending investigative journalism with cinematic artistry.
Filmmakers are tackling increasingly relevant and timely subjects, from social justice issues to environmental concerns. This relevance has attracted viewers seeking in-depth exploration of current events and complex topics. The rise of social media has also contributed to the spread of documentary content, with short-form documentaries gaining traction on platforms like YouTube and Instagram.
Impact on Society
Documentaries have the power to influence public opinion and drive social change. They often expose hidden truths, challenge existing narratives, and give voice to marginalized communities. By presenting compelling evidence and personal stories, documentaries can raise awareness about important issues and inspire action.
Many documentaries have led to tangible results, such as policy changes, legal reforms, and shifts in public behavior. They serve as catalysts for discussions on complex topics, encouraging viewers to think critically about the world around them. In educational settings, documentaries are valuable tools for teaching history, science, and social studies.
The impact of documentaries extends beyond their initial release. They often become historical records, preserving important moments and stories for future generations. This archival value makes documentaries essential for understanding past events and societal shifts.
Innovative Storytelling Techniques
Documentaries in 2016 pushed creative boundaries through inventive narrative approaches and visual techniques. Filmmakers employed new methods to engage audiences and convey complex ideas.
Use of Animation and Visual Effects
"Tower" blended archival footage with rotoscope animation to recreate the 1966 University of Texas shooting. This technique allowed the film to visualize events where no footage existed. The animated sequences also helped convey the emotional experiences of survivors and witnesses.
"Notes on Blindness" utilized abstract animations to represent the inner world of a man losing his sight. These visuals gave viewers insight into the protagonist's perceptions and memories as his vision faded.
"Kate Plays Christine" incorporated scripted scenes alongside documentary footage. This blurring of fiction and reality challenged viewers to question the nature of performance and truth in nonfiction film.
Narrative Structures and Themes
"O.J.: Made in America" expanded the scope of its subject by presenting O.J. Simpson's story over five parts. This extended runtime allowed for a deep exploration of race, celebrity, and media in America.
"Cameraperson" took an unconventional approach by assembling footage from the cinematographer's 25-year career. The film created meaning through juxtaposition and personal reflection rather than a linear narrative.
"Weiner" gained unprecedented access to Anthony Weiner's mayoral campaign. The filmmakers captured the unfolding scandal in real-time, creating a tense political thriller from unscripted events.
Critical Reception and Awards
Several documentaries from 2016 garnered significant critical acclaim and recognition at prestigious film festivals. These films made lasting impressions on audiences and fellow filmmakers alike.
Festival Screenings
"Tower" received widespread praise, winning the Grand Jury Award at SXSW. The film's innovative animation style and emotional depth resonated with critics. "De Palma" premiered at the Venice Film Festival to positive reviews, with many praising its in-depth look at the legendary director's career. "Fire at Sea" took home the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, a rare feat for a documentary.
Influence on Filmmakers
"O.J.: Made in America" set a new standard for long-form documentary storytelling, inspiring filmmakers to explore complex subjects over multiple episodes. The film's success paved the way for more expansive documentary projects. "13th" by Ava DuVernay sparked conversations about systemic racism and influenced a wave of social justice documentaries. Its visual style and use of archival footage became a template for many filmmakers tackling historical subjects.
