The Square (original title: Al Midan) provides a raw and immersive look at the Egyptian Revolution that began in 2011, centered around the protests in Cairo's Tahrir Square. The documentary follows several activists and protesters over several years, capturing the hopes, struggles, and dangers they face as the political situation evolves through different regimes and periods of unrest. Filmed largely on the ground amidst the demonstrations, it offers a visceral, personal perspective on a pivotal moment in modern history, highlighting the courage and resilience of those fighting for change. It's a powerful, on-the-ground account of revolution.

Is it real? Is it a prank? Exit Through the Gift Shop is a documentary unlike any other, ostensibly following Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant in Los Angeles who tries to document the world of street art, eventually meeting the elusive artist Banksy. However, the film takes a bizarre turn when Banksy encourages Thierry to try creating street art himself, leading to the rapid and inexplicable rise of 'Mr. Brainwash.' The film blurs the lines between observer and participant, documentarian and subject, leaving the audience to question the authenticity of what they are seeing. Directed (allegedly) by Banksy, it's a fascinating, satirical, and often hilarious look at art, fame, and authenticity.

Get ready for a jaw-dropping account of epic failure with Fyre, the documentary chronicling the disastrous Fyre Festival of 2017. Intended to be a luxurious music festival on a private island in the Bahamas, promoted by social media influencers and celebrities, it quickly devolved into chaos, leaving attendees stranded with inadequate food, shelter, and no music acts. This film, produced by Netflix (another documentary on the same topic was produced by Hulu), offers an inside look at the planning (or lack thereof), the deceptive marketing, and the sheer hubris that led to one of the most infamous event fiascos in recent history. It's a compelling, cautionary tale about the power and perils of hype in the digital age.

The Great Hack delves into the Cambridge Analytica scandal, exploring how a political consulting firm harvested the personal data of millions of Facebook users without their consent to influence elections, including the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the Brexit referendum. The film follows several key figures involved, including data experts and journalists, as they unravel the complex web of data exploitation and its implications for democracy in the digital age. It's a chilling look at the power of personal data and the ethical challenges posed by opaque algorithms and targeted political advertising.

Food, Inc. takes a critical look at the modern industrial food production system in the United States. Filmmaker Robert Kenner explores how corporations have gained control over the food supply, from farms to grocery stores, often prioritizing efficiency and profit over public health, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare. The documentary investigates issues like the prevalence of corn and soy in processed foods, the treatment of livestock, and the power of seed companies. It's an eye-opening and influential film that encourages viewers to think more deeply about where their food comes from and the impact of their choices.

Blackfish had a significant cultural impact upon its release, focusing on the controversial practice of keeping killer whales (orcas) in captivity, particularly highlighting the story of Tilikum, an orca involved in the deaths of three people. The film argues that the stress and unnatural conditions of captivity contribute to aggressive behavior in these highly intelligent and social animals. Through interviews with former trainers and scientists, the documentary raises serious ethical questions about animal welfare and the commercialization of wildlife. Its release led to a noticeable decline in attendance at marine parks like SeaWorld and influenced changes in their policies regarding orca breeding and performances.

Icarus starts as a personal experiment by filmmaker Bryan Fogel to explore doping in amateur cycling and how easy it is to evade detection. However, it takes a sharp, thrilling turn when he connects with Grigory Rodchenkov, the head of the Russian anti-doping lab, who becomes a key figure in exposing Russia's state-sponsored doping program. What follows is a real-life spy thriller involving international intrigue, cover-ups, and a whistleblower in grave danger. The film is a fascinating, often unbelievable, journey into the dark underbelly of competitive sports and global politics, earning an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature for its shocking revelations.

Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution is a truly inspiring and important historical document. Executive produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, the film tells the story of Camp Jened, a summer camp for teenagers with disabilities in the Catskills during the 1970s. What started as a haven for young people to experience freedom and community became a crucial training ground for the disability rights movement, with many campers going on to become leading activists. The film seamlessly blends archival footage from the camp with interviews with former campers who were instrumental in fighting for landmark legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It's a powerful testament to collective action and the fight for equality.

Ever wondered how social media platforms seem to know you better than you know yourself? The Social Dilemma pulls back the curtain on the algorithms that shape our digital lives, featuring candid interviews with former executives and engineers from major tech companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter. The film explores the often-unintended consequences of social media, from addiction and mental health issues to the spread of misinformation and political polarization. It's a compelling, sometimes alarming look at the persuasive power embedded in the technology we use daily, urging viewers to consider the profound impact these platforms have on individuals and society at large. It's a must-watch if you're curious about the forces shaping your online experience.

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay delivers a searing and essential examination of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States with 13th. Titled after the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which abolished slavery but contains a loophole allowing for involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime, the film argues that this loophole has been exploited to create a system of criminalization and imprisonment disproportionately affecting African Americans. Featuring interviews with activists, academics, and politicians, DuVernay connects the dots from slavery to Jim Crow to the modern prison industrial complex with undeniable clarity and historical depth. This documentary is not just informative; it's a powerful call to understanding and action, earning widespread critical acclaim and an Emmy Award.

Dive into the fascinating clash of cultures in American Factory, the first film released by Barack and Michelle Obama's production company, Higher Ground Productions, which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature! Directed by Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert, this film chronicles what happens when a Chinese billionaire opens a factory in a former General Motors plant in Ohio, employing thousands of American workers. It offers an incredibly insightful look at the complexities of globalization, worker rights, and the stark differences in corporate culture and expectations between the two nations. The verité style puts you right there on the factory floor, witnessing the tensions and triumphs unfold in real-time. It's a powerful, thought-provoking examination of the modern industrial landscape.

Prepare to be absolutely captivated by this breathtaking journey into the ocean! My Octopus Teacher follows filmmaker Craig Foster as he forms an extraordinary bond with a common octopus in a South African kelp forest. This documentary is a masterclass in cinematography, capturing the octopus's intelligence, curiosity, and vulnerability with stunning intimacy. It's not just a nature film; it's a deeply personal story about connection, the natural world, and finding solace. Winning the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, this film offers a truly unique perspective on life and the profound beauty that exists just beneath the waves. You'll be utterly mesmerized by this incredible friendship!