Top Documentaries of 2021
Must-Watch Films That Defined the Year
Documentaries offer viewers a window into real-world stories, providing insights and perspectives on a wide range of subjects. The year 2021 saw the release of numerous compelling and thought-provoking documentary films across various platforms and genres.
These non-fiction works covered diverse topics, from music and sports to social issues and technology, captivating audiences with their powerful storytelling and unique approaches to presenting factual information. Many of these documentaries garnered critical acclaim and sparked important conversations, demonstrating the medium's ability to inform, inspire, and challenge viewers.
1) Attica (2021)
Attica examines the 1971 prison uprising at Attica Correctional Facility in New York. Directed by Stanley Nelson and Traci Curry, this powerful documentary sheds light on the violent five-day standoff between inmates and authorities.
The film uses archival footage and interviews with former prisoners, family members, and observers to reconstruct the events. It explores the inmates' demands for better living conditions and highlights the racial tensions that fueled the conflict.
Attica received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of the uprising and its aftermath. The documentary earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature at the 94th Academy Awards.
By revisiting this historic event, the filmmakers draw attention to ongoing issues of systemic racism and the need for prison reform in the United States. The documentary serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of neglecting prisoners' rights.
2) Summer of Soul
Summer of Soul (...or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) (2021) is a captivating documentary directed by Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson. The film brings to light the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, a series of concerts that had been largely forgotten.
Questlove's directorial debut showcases previously unseen footage of performances by legendary artists such as Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, and Sly and the Family Stone. The documentary expertly weaves together music and social commentary, providing context for the cultural significance of the event.
The film received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and vibrant restoration of the archival footage. It won numerous accolades, including the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival.
Summer of Soul not only celebrates the incredible music of the era but also explores themes of Black pride, cultural identity, and social change. It offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history that had been overlooked for decades.
More information on Summer of Soul
3) The Rescue (2021)
"The Rescue" chronicles the gripping 2018 rescue of 12 boys and their soccer coach from a flooded cave in Thailand. Directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, this documentary offers a riveting account of the daring operation.
The film combines interviews with rescue divers, Thai officials, and previously unseen footage to recreate the tense 18-day ordeal. It showcases the international cooperation and ingenuity required to save the trapped team.
Chin and Vasarhelyi's skillful storytelling brings viewers into the claustrophobic caves and highlights the extreme risks faced by the rescue team. The documentary also explores the human aspects of the crisis, including the families' anguish and the global outpouring of support.
"The Rescue" received critical acclaim for its immersive approach and emotional depth. It won numerous awards, including the People's Choice Award for Documentaries at the Toronto International Film Festival.
4) Flee
Flee (2021) stands out as a unique and powerful documentary that blends animation with real-life interviews. The film tells the story of Amin Nawabi, an Afghan refugee who shares his harrowing journey to Denmark for the first time.
Director Jonas Poher Rasmussen employs innovative storytelling techniques to bring Amin's experiences to life. The animated format allows for a vivid portrayal of past events while protecting the subject's identity.
Flee received critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of complex themes. The film explores issues of identity, trauma, and the refugee experience with depth and nuance.
The documentary garnered multiple Oscar nominations, including Best Animated Feature, Best Documentary Feature, and Best International Feature Film. This rare triple nomination underscores its artistic and cultural significance.
Flee's impact extends beyond its artistic merits. The film offers viewers a deeply personal perspective on the global refugee crisis, fostering empathy and understanding.
5) The Velvet Underground
Todd Haynes directed this innovative documentary about the influential rock band The Velvet Underground. Released in 2021, the film explores the group's formation and impact on music history.
Haynes uses a unique visual style, blending archival footage with avant-garde techniques reminiscent of the 1960s New York art scene. The documentary features interviews with surviving band members and contemporaries.
The film delves into the band's collaboration with Andy Warhol and their groundbreaking debut album. It highlights Lou Reed's songwriting and the group's experimental sound that challenged mainstream music norms.
Critics praised the documentary for its creative approach and comprehensive overview of the band's legacy. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and later became available on Apple TV+.
6) Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry (2021)
"Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry" offers an intimate look into the life of the young pop sensation. Directed by R.J. Cutler, this documentary chronicles Eilish's rise to stardom from the release of her breakout single "Ocean Eyes" in 2016.
The film provides a behind-the-scenes perspective on the creation of Eilish's debut studio album, "When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?" Viewers witness the creative process as Eilish collaborates with her brother and producer, Finneas O'Connell.
Throughout the documentary, Eilish's close relationship with her family is highlighted. The film showcases how her parents support her career while helping her navigate the challenges of fame at a young age.
"The World's a Little Blurry" captures Eilish's experiences on tour, her interactions with fans, and her personal struggles. It presents a candid portrayal of a teenager balancing global stardom with typical adolescent experiences.
The documentary received praise for its authenticity and intimate access to Eilish's life. It offers fans and music enthusiasts alike a comprehensive look at one of the most influential artists of her generation.
7) Procession (2021)
Procession is a powerful documentary that explores the aftermath of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. Directed by Robert Greene, the film follows six men who were abused by priests as children.
The survivors collaborate with Greene to create dramatized scenes that help them confront their trauma. This innovative approach blends documentary and therapeutic techniques in a unique way.
Procession received critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of a difficult subject. The film premiered at the 2021 Telluride Film Festival before being released on Netflix.
By giving voice to survivors, Procession sheds light on the long-lasting impacts of clerical abuse. It offers a raw, unflinching look at the healing process and pursuit of justice.
The documentary stands out for its empathetic storytelling and creative use of dramatic reenactments. It provides important insights into trauma recovery and institutional accountability.
8) Val (2021)
Val offers an intimate look at the life and career of actor Val Kilmer. Directed by Leo Scott and Ting Poo, this documentary draws from thousands of hours of footage Kilmer recorded throughout his life.
The film provides a unique perspective on Kilmer's journey in Hollywood, from his early days to his struggles with throat cancer. It features behind-the-scenes clips from iconic movies like Top Gun and Batman Forever.
Kilmer's son, Jack, narrates much of the documentary, lending his voice to his father's words due to Val's current speech difficulties. This personal touch adds depth to the narrative.
Val received praise for its candid portrayal of the actor's life and creative process. It premiered at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival and was later released on Amazon Prime Video.
The documentary offers fans a rare glimpse into Kilmer's private world, showcasing his artistic pursuits beyond acting. It presents a nuanced portrait of a complex individual and his enduring passion for his craft.
9) The Sparks Brothers (2021)
Edgar Wright's documentary "The Sparks Brothers" explores the fascinating career of Ron and Russell Mael, the duo behind the band Sparks. The film traces their five-decade journey through the music industry.
Wright interviews a range of musicians and celebrities who share their admiration for Sparks' unique sound and style. The documentary uses a mix of archival footage and animations to bring the band's story to life.
"The Sparks Brothers" sheds light on the Mael brothers' innovative approach to pop music and their influence on various genres. It highlights their perseverance in the face of changing musical trends and their ability to remain relevant.
The film received critical acclaim for its engaging storytelling and in-depth look at a often overlooked but influential band. It offers both longtime fans and newcomers a comprehensive overview of Sparks' career and creative process.
10) In the Same Breath (2021)
"In the Same Breath" is a powerful documentary directed by Nanfu Wang that examines the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. The film offers a unique perspective, contrasting the responses of the Chinese and American governments to the outbreak.
Wang skillfully weaves together footage from Wuhan, China, where the virus first emerged, with scenes from the United States as the pandemic spread globally. The documentary highlights the initial cover-ups and misinformation in both countries.
Through interviews with healthcare workers, patients, and citizens, "In the Same Breath" paints a vivid picture of the human impact of the crisis. It explores themes of government accountability, media censorship, and the importance of transparency during public health emergencies.
The film premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival and was later released by HBO Documentary Films. It received critical acclaim for its timely and thought-provoking exploration of a global crisis that affected millions of lives.
Impact of Documentaries on Society
Documentaries play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and understanding of complex issues. They serve as powerful tools for education, sparking conversations and inspiring action on important topics.
Raising Awareness on Global Issues
Documentaries bring attention to pressing global challenges that might otherwise go unnoticed. Films like "The Rescue" highlighted the dramatic Thai cave rescue operation, captivating audiences worldwide. Such documentaries expose viewers to different cultures, environmental concerns, and humanitarian crises.
They often provide in-depth analysis of complex subjects, making them accessible to a broader audience. This increased awareness can lead to tangible changes in public policy and individual behavior.
Many documentaries also shine a light on underrepresented voices and marginalized communities, amplifying their stories and struggles.
Influence on Public Opinion
Documentaries have the power to sway public sentiment on various issues. They present information in compelling, visual formats that can evoke strong emotional responses from viewers.
Films like "Summer of Soul" revived interest in forgotten historical events, reshaping collective memory. Such documentaries can challenge existing narratives and prompt viewers to reconsider their perspectives.
The impact of documentaries extends beyond individual viewers. They often generate media coverage, social media discussions, and even policy debates. This ripple effect can lead to broader societal changes and movements.
Documentaries also serve as catalysts for activism, inspiring viewers to take action on causes they care about.
Notable Documentary Trends in 2021
Documentary filmmaking in 2021 saw a shift towards streaming platforms and an increased focus on social justice issues. These trends reflected changing viewer habits and a desire to explore pressing societal topics through the documentary lens.
Emergence of Streaming Platforms
Streaming services solidified their position as major players in documentary distribution during 2021. Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video expanded their non-fiction offerings, commissioning original documentaries and acquiring festival favorites.
This shift allowed for more niche subjects to find audiences. Streaming platforms' algorithms helped viewers discover documentaries aligned with their interests, boosting viewership for lesser-known films.
The accessibility of streaming also contributed to a surge in documentary consumption. Viewers could easily watch thought-provoking films from home, leading to increased engagement with non-fiction content.
Focus on Social Justice Topics
2021 saw a notable rise in documentaries addressing social justice issues. Films explored topics such as racial inequality, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental activism.
"Changing the Game" examined transgender athletes in high school sports, while "Coded Bias" delved into racial biases in facial recognition technology. These films sparked important conversations and raised awareness about pressing societal concerns.
Filmmakers used personal stories to humanize complex issues. This approach made abstract concepts more relatable and emotionally impactful for audiences.
Many of these socially conscious documentaries garnered critical acclaim and found receptive audiences, highlighting the public's appetite for meaningful, issue-driven content.
