The Best Documentaries of 2024, Ranked

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As a film enthusiast with a passion for documentaries that delve into the human condition, I find myself utterly captivated by this year’s top picks. Each of these documentaries offers a unique perspective on various aspects of our world, from the intimate relationships between individuals to the sweeping political landscapes that shape our lives.

Among my favorites is “No Other Land,” a poignant exploration of the complexities of life in Palestine and Israel’s occupied territories. The film’s intimate portrayal of two young men, Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham, offers a compelling look at the human consequences of apartheid and occupation. It’s a moving testament to resilience, empathy, and the power of art in bridging gaps.

Another standout is “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story,” which offers a heartwarming and inspiring look at the life of an iconic figure. From his rise to fame as Superman to his tragic accident and subsequent struggle with paralysis, this documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the indomitable human spirit.

Of course, I can’t forget about “Daughters,” a thought-provoking exploration of female identity and the complex relationships between mothers and daughters. This film offers a unique perspective on the universal themes of love, loss, and growth.

Lastly, let me add a lighthearted joke to lift your spirits: “Did you hear about the documentary on bread? It was a real knead-to-see!”

These documentaries, along with the honorary mentions, serve as a testament to the power of storytelling and the human spirit. They remind us that there is always more to learn, more to explore, and more to appreciate in this beautiful, complex world we inhabit.

In 2024, I found myself captivated by a wave of exceptional documentary films that showcased a breathtaking variety of perspectives, stories, and emotions. These movies took me on an emotional roller coaster ride around the globe, opening my mind to diverse cultures and challenges. The sheer number of outstanding documentaries in 2024 was overwhelming, so I’ve compiled a list of honorable mentions at the bottom, all of which are well worth watching, and some may even be added to this list in an update. From thought-provoking films about Palestine and Ukraine to compelling portraits of fascinating individuals, these were the best documentaries of 2024.

15
The Last Journey

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One of the most intimate documentaries this year, titled “The Final Voyage“, chronicles a son’s heartfelt effort to lift his father out of a profound depression. Swedish director Filip Hammar has observed his father retreat into seclusion since retirement, spending more than a decade indoors with rare exceptions, and decides to embark on an adventure by recreating their road trip to France from Filip’s teenage years. The film offers a lively, humorous, and visually stunning exploration of family dynamics, melancholy, and the aging process. Unfortunately, The Final Voyage is not available at this time.

14
2073

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In a departure from his award-winning biographical films (“Amy,” “Senna”), Asif Kapadia ventures into the realm of political cinema with a futuristic flair. The film’s premise is intriguing, as it appears to unfold in 2073 and focuses on a solitary woman (Samantha Morton) embarking on a mission amidst a ruined, post-apocalyptic world.

2073 weaves together interviews and real-life footage within a fictional storyline, utilizing an accurate portrayal of current global events to depict a grim future. This film serves as a powerful critique of authoritarian regimes, examining issues ranging from China and the Philippines to the surge of far-right movements in America and Europe, ultimately predicting a chilling vision of the years to come. The movie embodies the unique blend of Asif Kapadia’s artistic talents and his indignant passion. 2073 was premiered in cinemas on December 27, 2024.

13
My Name Is Alfred Hitchcock

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Mark Cousins, a lifelong enthusiast and interpreter of cinema, often provides fresh perspectives on films; he’s somewhat like John Berger for movies. Instead of his usual extensive series such as “The Story of Film”, in this instance, Cousins focuses on one filmmaker in the documentary titled “Alfred Hitchcock: In My Own Words“. Using his signature techniques of creative montage, insightful and unconventional analysis, and keen intellect, Cousins offers a unique portrayal of the life and career of this renowned director, unlike any we’ve previously encountered. You can rent or purchase Alfred Hitchcock: In My Own Words on various digital platforms via Dogwoof.

12
Separated

As a movie lover with a passion for political cinema, I’m thrilled to share that Errol Morris has once again dived into the realm of political documentaries. This time, he’s adapting investigative journalist Jacob Soboroff’s book about the heart-wrenching child separation policy under the 2016 Trump administration. The film, titled “Separated“, offers a profoundly emotional portrayal of the cruelty, prejudice, and political indifference embedded in this policy, while also serving as an educational deep-dive into the behind-the-scenes happenings. With its meticulous detailing and heartbreaking narrative, “Separated” is a crucial documentary to watch before the potential next Trump presidency. You can now rent or buy this powerful film on various digital platforms.

11
The Remarkable Life of Ibelin

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Prepare some tissues as you embark on the heartrending journey that is “The Remarkable Life of Ibelin,” now available on Netflix. This poignant, compact film will touch your soul deeply. By employing interviews and archival footage, it delves into the life of Mats Steen, a 25-year-old who succumbed to Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) in 2014. However, his truest and most passionate existence was found within the digital realm of the video game “World of Warcraft,” where his physical constraints were irrelevant. The film uncovers this hidden life by delving into the game’s world in a way that is both emotionally and aesthetically captivating, providing an insightful perspective on disability, technology, and one extraordinary young man.

10
Tell Them You Love Me

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Expressing Love Towards Me stands out from the typical explorations of celebrity crime, social media homicides, and other sensational topics in Netflix documentaries. Despite this, it still managed to become a significant success on the streaming platform, perhaps due to its intriguing, enigmatic theme. It tells the story of a white progressive female academic trying to aid a Black man with cerebral palsy in expressing himself and regaining control over his life. However, their relationship becomes romantic, which raises questions about consent. She believes he does, but his family strongly disagrees.

This movie raises profoundly thought-provoking ethical dilemmas that may linger in your mind even after watching it, marking another achievement for producer Louis Theroux and introducing director Nick August-Perna as a noteworthy documentary maker. You can stream Tell Them You Love Me on Netflix or rent it on various digital platforms.

9
The Bibi Files

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Among numerous compelling documentaries released in 2024, “The Bibi Files” offers a deep dive into the Israeli government (specifically, its actions in Gaza and the West Bank) and uncovers the corruption within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration. What sets this documentary apart is an unexpected twist: it features leaked police footage from intense and private interrogations involving Netanyahu, his family members, their son, and alleged associates implicated in bribery and fraud charges against him. This footage was taken from various cases brought against the Prime Minister. (Alexis Bloom’s film is responsible for this revealing material.)

The video material offers a striking portrayal of small-time offenders, displaying an arrogance they think grants them immunity from the law, and is interwoven with insightful modern interviews that illuminate the impact of the current administration on Israel.

Watch The Bibi Files on JOLT until March 16, 2025.

8
Flipside

Similar to the captivating movie titled Cameraperson, the compilation named Flipside gathers diverse footage left out from the filmmaker’s earlier projects, creating an intriguing ‘miscellany’. This seemingly disparate collection works wonderfully as it is skillfully woven together by the artist. Flipside is multifaceted — it serves as a profound reflection on the crossroads of art, business, and labor; offers a delightful glimpse into various quirky individuals; unfolds like a filmmaker’s personal memoir; and sheds light on our attachment to possessions.

In a unique blend of abandoned or unfinished works, director Chris Wilcha shares his transformative journey from a rebellious documentary maker to creating commercials for financial institutions. Throughout this journey, we witness the growth of his children, the passing of his documentary subjects, and his frequent returns to his initial workplace, a record store. Remarkably, Flipside emerges as one of the most compelling documentaries exploring art and capitalism.

Catch Flipside on Freevee via Prime Video or rent/purchase it on various digital platforms.

7
Blink

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Man, this movie really pulled at the heartstrings. The film “Blink,” which is likely the only one on this list available on Disney+ due to its pure, kind, and heartwarming nature, will touch your spirit deeply despite its underlying sadness. The story revolves around a big family as they confront the prospect of their children losing their sight because of a rare genetic condition. In a courageous decision, they embark on an adventure, traveling the world to reveal the stunning diversity of our planet to their kids before they lose their vision.

In essence, “Blink” offers a stunning journey across various destinations such as Oman, Egypt, Nepal, Ecuador, Thailand, and more, all beautifully captured on film. At its core, however, lies the heartwarming tale of a family bonded by love, with two devoted parents as the central figures. Don’t forget to catch “Blink” on Disney+ or Hulu.

6
Youth

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As a passionate cinephile, I’ve been captivated by the groundbreaking work of filmmaker Wang Bing, who delved into the heart of Zhili, a Chinese town inhabited by low-wage textile workers. Originally planning to document their lives for half a year, he extended his stay for six years, employing a team of six cinematographers working in shifts to chronicle the lives of many as they navigated seasonal work. This project is actually a three-part film series (Spring, Hard Times, and Homecoming) spanning nearly 10 hours, and it’s a testament to patience that rewards those who watch it.

The way Youth manipulates time as a cinematic device is truly mesmerizing, offering an all-encompassing view into the harsh existence of young workers during the post-industrial globalization era. If you’re intrigued and wish to explore this masterpiece further, you can rent or purchase Youth (Spring) on various digital platforms.

5
Dahomey

Mati Diop’s film, titled “Dahomey“, is a remarkable find, much like the artifacts it explores. The director delves into over two dozen royal artifacts (statues, thrones, artwork) that were taken from the Kingdom of Dahomey (now the Republic of Benin) by colonial France. Diop uncovers the cultural and political history of these pieces as a French museum decides to return them to their original home. The film follows the reactions of the Beninese people as they encounter these historical items for the first time.

The movie titled Dahomey is a captivating, whimsical production that seamlessly blends elements of art history and postcolonial studies. However, it’s far more engaging and vibrant than its academic description might suggest. Catch Dahomey on MUBI, Prime Video, or rent/purchase it digitally from various platforms.

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4
Look Into My Eyes

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Subjects for documentaries can encompass a wide range, as the aesthetic, editing, and direction are typically what make them compelling as films. The film “Look Into My Eyes,” directed by Lana Wilson, serves as an excellent demonstration of how direction can elevate even the most unconventional subjects. In this case, Wilson crafts an atmosphere that’s strange, moody, and almost otherworldly, akin to a tone poem. The film delves into the lives of psychics in New York City, exploring the pain that often drives people to seek their services and the peculiar form of healing they offer. “Look Into My Eyes” isn’t about whether or not one believes in psychics; rather, it’s a deeply human tale about our universal yearning for resolution and connection.

You can rent or buy Look Into My Eyes on various digital platforms.

3
Union

Over the Christmas season, a significant number of Amazon employees went on strike, making the topic of unions highly relevant. However, the conflict between these workers and their corporate leaders has been ongoing and fraught with tension. Amazon has often faced accusations of union suppression and underhanded methods, while its employees have voiced concerns about harsh working conditions and excessive demands. Similar to the documentary ‘Americonned’ from last year, ‘Union’ delves deeply into this contentious issue and highlights the individuals who risk their livelihoods in pursuit of fair wages and improved work conditions.

Union, uniquely, delves deeply into the contemporary dynamics of protests and political mobilization. Filmmakers Brett Story and Stephen Maing spent years alongside Amazon employees at the JFK8 fulfillment center in Staten Island, painstakingly capturing their journey to establish the company’s first union. This documentary offers a close-up look at the individuals shaping our economy and the resilience and hardship needed to bring about political transformation. It ranks among the finest documentaries of its genre since 1976’s Harlan County, USA. Watch Union here until January 17, 2025.

2
Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat

The movie, titled Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat, mirrors the essence of jazz – elegant and vibrant, it swiftly traverses its extensive subject matter spanning over 150 minutes without appearing slow. Directed by Johan Grimonprez, this film appears to delve into the intricate postcolonial history where numerous African nations severed ties with colonial Europe, thereby challenging the Western dominance on global affairs and ultimately joining the United Nations.

Discover the captivating tale behind “Soundtrack to a Revolution” as it delves into a pivotal historical moment – the daring instance when jazz artists Abbey Lincoln and Max Roach joined protesters in storming the United Nations Security Council, following the U.S.-supported assassination of Congo’s Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba. Through this lens, Grimonprez weaves a multi-layered narrative encompassing the Cold War, African oppression, the CIA, and Black musicians. The experience is exhilarating, thought-provoking, and akin to uncovering the world’s most guarded secret. Check out showtimes and book tickets for Soundtrack to a Revolution.

1
No Other Land

As someone who has closely followed the Palestinian-Israeli conflict for many years, I find “No Other Land” to be one of the most impactful documentaries I have ever seen. Unlike other documentaries that focus on broad historical narratives or political debates, this film stands out because it delves deep into the personal stories and consequences of apartheid and Israel’s settlements in the West Bank.

The film is a collaborative effort between four Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers, with Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham serving as the main protagonists. As a Palestinian activist and documentarian myself, I found Adra’s passion for justice and peace deeply inspiring. On the other hand, Abraham’s struggle to share his family’s story with the world as an Israeli journalist resonated with me on a personal level, given my own experiences of trying to bridge the divide between our communities.

The film is triumphant because it offers a rare glimpse into the lives of ordinary people living in extraordinary circumstances. It humanizes both Palestinians and Israelis, making it easier for viewers to empathize with each side of the conflict and understand the complexities that make peace so elusive. I highly recommend “No Other Land” as a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about this complex region and its people.

In the captivating narrative of “No Other Land“, the intricate bond between these two youths stands out as a poignant contrast to the harsh realities of life in the West Bank. They diligently record every instance where Israeli military demolish their homes, incursions by settlers that damage their property and brutalize them, and instances of being shot, arrested, or subjected to violence. The film offers a profound and unsettling perspective on the dynamics of change, the role of art and media, the tenacity of oppressed Palestinians, and the relentless fear of occupation.

Experience the captivating shift between first-person and third-person storytelling in “No Other Land,” a movie that seamlessly transports you into its realm. Its lyrical dialogue and richly drawn characters foster an immediate connection, bridging any potential gaps in audience empathy. It’s an exceptional piece of cinema and the standout documentary of the year. Discover when “No Other Land” is showing near you.

Honorary Mentions:

  • Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story
  • Rule of Two Walls
  • Will & Harper
  • Ernest Cole: Lost and Found
  • Pictures of Ghosts
  • Ennio
  • Intercepted
  • Dario Argento: Panico
  • Daughters
  • Nocturnes
  • Plastic People
  • Skywalkers: A Love Story
  • Zurawski v Texas
  • My Favourite Cake
  • Bread and Roses
  • Every Little Thing
  • Sugarcane
  • Last of the Sea Women
  • Art College 1994
  • Night Is Not Eternal
  • Eno
  • The Human Surge 3
  • Made in England: The Films of Powell and Pressburger
  • Black Box Diaries
  • Sweetheart Deal
  • My First Film

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2025-01-02 07:04