Top Documentaries of 2017
Must-Watch Films That Defined the Year
The year 2017 saw a remarkable crop of documentary films that captured real-life stories with compelling artistry and depth. From intimate character studies to sweeping societal examinations, these non-fiction works shed light on fascinating subjects and provoked thoughtful discourse.
Several standout documentaries of 2017 garnered critical acclaim and audience praise for their insightful storytelling and powerful impact. These films covered a wide range of topics, including civil rights icons, environmental issues, cultural phenomena, and personal journeys. Through expert filmmaking techniques and access to unique perspectives, the top documentaries of 2017 provided viewers with engaging windows into important stories and ideas.
1) Icarus
"Icarus" (2017) is a gripping documentary that unexpectedly uncovers a massive doping scandal in international sports. Directed by Bryan Fogel, the film begins as a personal experiment to expose flaws in anti-doping systems.
Fogel's investigation takes a dramatic turn when he meets Grigory Rodchenkov, the head of Russia's anti-doping laboratory. This chance encounter leads to shocking revelations about state-sponsored doping programs in Russia.
The documentary provides an insider's look at the complex world of performance-enhancing drugs in athletics. It explores the lengths some countries go to in order to achieve Olympic glory.
"Icarus" gained significant critical acclaim and won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The film's impact extended beyond cinema, influencing real-world investigations into doping in sports.
Fogel's work combines elements of personal journey, investigative journalism, and geopolitical thriller. It offers viewers a compelling and eye-opening experience about the dark side of competitive sports.
2) Jane
Jane (2017) offers an intimate portrait of renowned primatologist Jane Goodall. Directed by Brett Morgen, this documentary showcases Goodall's groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania.
The film draws from over 100 hours of never-before-seen footage shot by Hugo van Lawick in the 1960s. It captures Goodall's early years of research and her revolutionary discoveries about chimpanzee behavior.
Morgen's documentary highlights Goodall's dedication to her field and her impact on scientific understanding. It demonstrates how she defied expectations and became one of the world's most respected conservationists.
Philip Glass composed the film's orchestral score, enhancing the emotional depth of Goodall's story. The music complements the stunning visuals of African wildlife and Goodall's interactions with chimpanzees.
Jane received critical acclaim for its compelling narrative and technical artistry. It earned numerous awards and nominations, cementing its place as a standout documentary of 2017.
More information about Jane (2017)
3) City of Ghosts
City of Ghosts (2017) is a powerful documentary directed by Matthew Heineman. The film follows the courageous members of "Raqqa Is Being Slaughtered Silently," a group of Syrian citizen journalists.
These activists risk their lives to document and expose the atrocities committed by ISIS in their hometown of Raqqa. The film provides a raw, unflinching look at the dangers they face while reporting from within ISIS-controlled territory.
Heineman's intimate approach gives viewers unprecedented access to the personal struggles and sacrifices of these citizen journalists. The documentary showcases their determination to share the truth with the world, despite constant threats to their safety.
City of Ghosts received critical acclaim for its gripping storytelling and important subject matter. It was nominated for several awards, including a BAFTA for Best Documentary.
The film offers a sobering glimpse into the realities of life under ISIS rule and the brave individuals fighting to expose the truth. It stands as a testament to the power of journalism in the face of oppression.
4) Strong Island
Strong Island (2017) examines the 1992 murder of William Ford Jr., a young Black man in Long Island, New York. Director Yance Ford, William's brother, crafts a deeply personal documentary exploring themes of racial injustice and family grief.
The film delves into the circumstances surrounding William's death at the hands of a white mechanic. It scrutinizes the subsequent investigation and grand jury decision not to indict the shooter, raising questions about bias in the criminal justice system.
Through intimate interviews with family members and archival footage, Strong Island paints a poignant portrait of William's life and the lasting impact of his death. The documentary received critical acclaim for its raw emotional power and unflinching look at systemic racism.
Strong Island challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about race and justice in America. Its innovative visual style and thought-provoking narrative earned it an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature.
More information on Strong Island
5) Faces Places (2017)
"Faces Places" is a captivating documentary by legendary French filmmaker Agnès Varda and photographer JR. The film follows the duo as they embark on a journey through rural France, creating large-scale portraits of the people they encounter.
Varda, in her late 80s at the time, and JR, in his early 30s, form an unlikely friendship as they travel in JR's photo truck. They engage with locals, learning their stories and capturing their images on a grand scale.
The documentary showcases the power of art to bring communities together. Varda and JR's portraits transform ordinary buildings into extraordinary canvases, celebrating the lives of everyday people.
"Faces Places" received critical acclaim for its heartwarming approach and innovative storytelling. It won numerous awards, including the L'Œil d'or at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival.
The film serves as a poignant exploration of memory, creativity, and human connection. It stands out as one of 2017's most touching and visually stunning documentaries.
6) Chasing Coral
Chasing Coral (2017) offers a stunning underwater journey into the world of coral reefs. Directed by Jeff Orlowski, this documentary showcases the beauty and fragility of these marine ecosystems.
The film follows a team of divers, photographers, and scientists as they document the alarming disappearance of coral reefs around the globe. Using specially designed cameras, they capture time-lapse footage of coral bleaching events.
Chasing Coral highlights the devastating effects of climate change on these delicate underwater environments. It reveals how rising ocean temperatures are causing widespread coral death at an unprecedented rate.
The documentary features breathtaking imagery of vibrant coral reefs and the diverse marine life they support. It also shows the stark contrast of bleached, lifeless coral expanses.
Chasing Coral serves as both a visual feast and an urgent call to action. It raises awareness about the critical importance of coral reefs to ocean ecosystems and human communities.
The film received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and stunning cinematography. It won the Audience Award for U.S. Documentary at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival.
7) 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 takes its title from the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery except as punishment for a crime.
DuVernay's work traces the history of racial inequality in America, from the end of slavery through Jim Crow, the Civil Rights movement, and up to the present day. It argues that slavery has been perpetuated through discriminatory laws and practices in the criminal justice system.
The documentary features interviews with activists, politicians, and scholars. It combines archival footage with contemporary statistics to illustrate the disproportionate impact of mass incarceration on African American communities.
"13th" received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking content and compelling presentation. It was nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
The film's release in 2016 coincided with growing public awareness of racial injustice in the United States. It contributed significantly to ongoing discussions about criminal justice reform and systemic racism.
8) Abacus: Small Enough to Jail (2016)
"Abacus: Small Enough to Jail" is a compelling documentary directed by Steve James. It tells the story of Abacus Federal Savings Bank, a family-owned institution in New York City's Chinatown.
The film explores how Abacus became the only U.S. bank to face criminal charges in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. It highlights the contrast between "too big to fail" Wall Street banks and this small community lender.
Thomas Sung, the bank's founder, and his daughters feature prominently in the documentary. Their struggle against prosecution forms the heart of the narrative.
The film raises questions about the fairness of the legal system and the treatment of immigrant communities. It presents a classic underdog tale, pitting a small family business against powerful government prosecutors.
"Abacus: Small Enough to Jail" received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award. It sheds light on a little-known story that intersects with larger issues of justice and banking regulation.
9) Kedi (2017)
Kedi offers a unique glimpse into the lives of Istanbul's street cats. This Turkish documentary, directed by Ceyda Torun, follows seven felines as they navigate the bustling city.
The film showcases the special bond between cats and the people of Istanbul. It explores how these independent animals have become an integral part of urban life, touching the hearts of residents and visitors alike.
Kedi's cinematography captures the beauty of Istanbul from a cat's-eye view. The camera work brings viewers down to street level, offering a fresh perspective on the city's architecture and daily rhythms.
The documentary received critical acclaim for its heartwarming portrayal of human-animal relationships. It presents a thoughtful meditation on coexistence and the role of animals in urban environments.
Kedi stands out among 2017's documentaries for its original approach and universal appeal. It invites viewers to see the world through the eyes of its feline subjects, revealing unexpected insights about city life and human nature.
10) Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond (2017)
This documentary offers a fascinating glimpse into Jim Carrey's process of becoming Andy Kaufman for the 1999 film "Man on the Moon." Directed by Chris Smith, it features behind-the-scenes footage from the movie's production.
Carrey fully immersed himself in Kaufman's persona, staying in character both on and off camera. The film explores the blurred lines between acting and reality as Carrey reflects on his experience years later.
The documentary showcases Carrey's commitment to method acting and the impact it had on the cast and crew. It raises questions about identity and the nature of performance in the entertainment industry.
Viewers gain insight into Kaufman's eccentric comedic style and Carrey's interpretation of it. The film also touches on the challenges of portraying such a unique and controversial figure.
"Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond" provides a thought-provoking look at the art of acting and the potential consequences of fully inhabiting a character.
Exploring the Impact of Documentaries
Documentaries in 2017 catalyzed societal shifts and broadened cultural perspectives. These films sparked conversations, challenged preconceptions, and illuminated pressing issues across a wide range of topics.
Cultural Influence
Documentaries in 2017 shaped cultural narratives and influenced public discourse. "I Am Not Your Negro" brought James Baldwin's powerful voice to new audiences, reigniting discussions on race in America. The film's critical acclaim and widespread screenings elevated Baldwin's writings in popular culture.
"Jane" captivated viewers with never-before-seen footage of Jane Goodall's groundbreaking work with chimpanzees. This intimate portrait inspired a new generation of conservationists and reinforced Goodall's status as an environmental icon.
"Icarus" exposed the Russian doping scandal, sending shockwaves through the sports world. The film's revelations led to investigations and policy changes in international athletics, demonstrating documentaries' potential to drive real-world action.
Social Awareness
2017's documentaries tackled urgent social issues, educating audiences and spurring activism. "An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power" reignited climate change discussions, presenting updated data and solutions. The film mobilized viewers to demand environmental action from policymakers.
"Strong Island" explored racial injustice through a deeply personal lens, contributing to ongoing dialogues about police brutality and systemic racism. Its raw emotion and unflinching honesty resonated with audiences, fostering empathy and understanding.
"City of Ghosts" shed light on citizen journalists risking their lives in Syria. The film raised awareness about press freedom and the human cost of conflict, inspiring support for journalists in danger zones worldwide.
Key Themes in 2017 Documentaries
2017 documentaries explored pressing societal issues and environmental challenges. Filmmakers shed light on political landscapes and ecological concerns through compelling narratives and powerful imagery.
Politics and Society
Political documentaries in 2017 examined free press, social justice, and government accountability. "Nobody Speak: Trials of the Free Press" delved into threats to journalism and media independence. The film highlighted high-profile legal battles and their implications for press freedom.
"Abacus: Small Enough to Jail" by Steve James focused on the only U.S. bank prosecuted after the 2008 financial crisis. It chronicled the struggles of a small, family-owned bank in New York's Chinatown, raising questions about selective prosecution and racial bias in the financial sector.
"LA 92" revisited the 1992 Los Angeles riots, drawing parallels to contemporary racial tensions and police brutality issues. The documentary used archival footage to provide a raw, unfiltered look at a pivotal moment in American history.
Environmental Issues
Environmental documentaries in 2017 tackled climate change, conservation, and sustainability. These films aimed to raise awareness and inspire action on critical ecological challenges.
"An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power" followed up on Al Gore's influential 2006 documentary. It showcased the progress made in renewable energy adoption while emphasizing the ongoing urgency of addressing climate change.
"Chasing Coral" documented the alarming disappearance of coral reefs worldwide. The film combined stunning underwater imagery with scientific insights to illustrate the devastating impact of ocean warming on marine ecosystems.
"Jane" offered a new perspective on primatologist Jane Goodall's groundbreaking work. Through rediscovered footage, it highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation and our connection to the natural world.
