Top Documentaries of 2007
A Year in Groundbreaking Non-Fiction Films
The year 2007 marked a significant period for documentary filmmaking, producing a diverse array of compelling and thought-provoking works. From intimate character studies to expansive explorations of social issues, documentaries released that year covered a wide range of topics and styles.
Some of the top documentaries of 2007 delved into music, crime, environmental concerns, and personal journeys, captivating audiences with their unique perspectives and storytelling approaches. These films not only entertained viewers but also shed light on important subjects, sparking conversations and inspiring change in various spheres of society.
1) Sicko (2007)
Michael Moore's documentary "Sicko" exposed flaws in the American healthcare system. The film compared the U.S. system to those of other countries, highlighting disparities in coverage and cost.
Moore interviewed individuals who struggled with medical bills and insurance denials. He also spoke with healthcare professionals and policymakers about systemic issues.
The documentary sparked debate about healthcare reform in the United States. It received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and thought-provoking content.
"Sicko" was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The film's impact extended beyond theaters, influencing public discourse on healthcare policy.
Moore's signature style of investigative journalism and social commentary was on full display in this documentary. He used humor and personal stories to tackle a complex issue.
2) Zeitgeist
Zeitgeist: The Movie (2007) is a controversial documentary film directed by Peter Joseph. It explores various conspiracy theories and presents alternative perspectives on religion, politics, and economics.
The film is divided into three main parts. The first section examines religious myths and challenges traditional beliefs about Jesus Christ. It draws parallels between Christian theology and ancient sun worship.
The second part focuses on the September 11, 2001 attacks. It questions the official narrative and suggests alternative explanations for the events that unfolded that day.
The final segment delves into economic issues, particularly criticizing the Federal Reserve System and international banking practices. It proposes that these institutions contribute to global inequality and financial instability.
Zeitgeist gained significant attention after its online release, attracting millions of views on platforms like Google Video and YouTube. Its provocative content sparked debates and discussions across various forums.
While the film has been praised for encouraging critical thinking, it has also faced criticism for its lack of scientific rigor and reliance on unsubstantiated claims. Despite this, Zeitgeist remains a notable entry in the documentary landscape of 2007.
3) The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007)
The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters chronicles the intense rivalry between two gamers vying for the world record high score in Donkey Kong. Directed by Seth Gordon, this documentary captivates audiences with its unexpected drama and compelling characters.
At the center of the film is Steve Wiebe, a high school teacher from Washington, who challenges longtime record holder Billy Mitchell. The story unfolds as Wiebe attempts to dethrone Mitchell, widely regarded as one of the greatest arcade gamers of all time.
The documentary showcases the competitive world of classic arcade gaming, centered around Twin Galaxies, the organization that tracks high scores. Walter Day, the founder of Twin Galaxies, plays a key role in verifying and authenticating the records.
Gordon's film expertly captures the tension and excitement of Wiebe's quest, turning an seemingly niche subject into a universally relatable underdog story. The King of Kong received critical acclaim for its engaging narrative and exploration of human ambition.
4) Helvetica
Helvetica (2007) explores the ubiquitous typeface that has shaped modern visual culture. Director Gary Hustwit delves into the world of typography and graphic design through interviews with renowned designers.
The film examines how Helvetica, created in 1957, became a staple of urban landscapes and corporate identities. It showcases the typeface's versatility and widespread use in signage, advertisements, and logos.
Designers share their perspectives on Helvetica's impact, with some praising its clarity and others critiquing its overuse. The documentary provides insights into the creative process behind typeface design and its influence on communication.
Hustwit's film offers a unique look at how a seemingly simple font has profoundly affected global visual culture. It encourages viewers to notice the typography that surrounds them in everyday life.
Helvetica combines historical context with contemporary design discussions, making it accessible to both typography enthusiasts and general audiences. The film received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to exploring design.
More information on Helvetica (2007)
5) No End in Sight (2007)
"No End in Sight" is a critically acclaimed documentary that examines the U.S. occupation of Iraq following the 2003 invasion. Directed by Charles Ferguson, the film offers a comprehensive analysis of the Bush administration's handling of the conflict.
The documentary features interviews with high-ranking officials, soldiers, and analysts involved in the war effort. It explores key decisions made during the early stages of the occupation and their long-term consequences.
Ferguson's film highlights issues such as insufficient troop deployment, mismanagement of resources, and a lack of post-invasion planning. It presents a critical view of the occupation's impact on Iraq and its people.
"No End in Sight" received widespread acclaim for its thorough research and balanced presentation of complex issues. The film won numerous awards and was praised for its clear and informative approach to a controversial topic.
Released at the Sundance Film Festival, the documentary garnered attention for its timely and in-depth examination of an ongoing conflict. It provided viewers with valuable insights into the challenges faced during the Iraq War.
6) The Devil Came on Horseback (2007)
"The Devil Came on Horseback" is a powerful documentary directed by Ricki Stern and Anne Sundberg. It exposes the genocide in Darfur, Sudan through the eyes of former U.S. Marine Captain Brian Steidle.
Steidle worked for the African Union, documenting atrocities committed against civilians. His photographs and experiences form the backbone of this harrowing film.
The documentary provides a stark look at the ongoing crisis in Darfur. It highlights the failure of the international community to intervene effectively in the face of widespread human rights abuses.
Stern and Sundberg's work received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of the conflict. The film uses Steidle's personal journey to shed light on a complex geopolitical situation.
"The Devil Came on Horseback" serves as both a call to action and a sobering reminder of the human cost of inaction. It stands as a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking to bring attention to urgent global issues.
7) Lake of Fire (2007)
Lake of Fire offers an unflinching examination of the abortion debate in America. Directed by Tony Kaye, this black-and-white documentary presents perspectives from both sides of the controversy.
The film features interviews with key figures including Noam Chomsky, Alan Dershowitz, and Norma McCorvey. It also incorporates footage of anti-abortion activist Paul Jennings Hill, who was executed for murdering a doctor and his bodyguard.
Kaye spent 15 years creating this comprehensive exploration of the complex issue. The documentary doesn't shy away from graphic imagery, showing actual abortion procedures and their aftermath.
Lake of Fire aims to present a balanced view of the debate, giving voice to both pro-life and pro-choice advocates. It delves into the philosophical, legal, and personal aspects of the abortion controversy.
At 152 minutes long, the film provides an in-depth look at one of America's most divisive topics. It garnered critical acclaim for its thorough and unbiased approach to a highly charged subject.
More information on Lake of Fire
8) The 11th Hour
The 11th Hour (2007) is a thought-provoking documentary narrated and produced by Leonardo DiCaprio. It explores the critical state of the Earth's environment and the urgent need for change.
Directed by Leila Conners Petersen and Nadia Conners, the film features insights from over 50 experts. These include scientists, politicians, and environmental activists who offer their perspectives on the global ecological crisis.
The documentary examines how human activities have impacted the planet's ecosystems. It delves into topics such as deforestation, climate change, and resource depletion.
The 11th Hour also presents potential solutions for restoring the Earth's natural balance. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and innovative technologies in addressing environmental challenges.
The film premiered at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival, garnering attention for its powerful message. It serves as a call to action, urging viewers to consider their role in environmental stewardship.
More information on The 11th Hour
9) Taxi to the Dark Side
Taxi to the Dark Side (2007) is a powerful documentary directed by Alex Gibney that examines the use of torture by the United States military during the War in Afghanistan. The film centers on the tragic case of Dilawar, an Afghan taxi driver who was beaten to death while detained at Bagram Air Base in 2002.
Gibney's film meticulously investigates the circumstances surrounding Dilawar's death, interviewing soldiers involved and exploring the broader context of U.S. interrogation practices. It raises critical questions about accountability and the moral implications of torture.
The documentary garnered significant critical acclaim, winning the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2008. Its unflinching look at a controversial topic sparked important discussions about human rights and military conduct.
Taxi to the Dark Side combines interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis to create a compelling narrative. It exposes the complexities of wartime decision-making and the potential for abuse when clear ethical guidelines are absent.
The film's impact extends beyond its accolades, serving as a sobering examination of power, morality, and the consequences of extreme interrogation methods in the post-9/11 era.
10) In the Shadow of the Moon (2007)
This captivating documentary explores the Apollo missions to the Moon through the eyes of the astronauts who lived them. Directed by David Sington, the film features interviews with surviving crew members from various Apollo missions.
The astronauts share their personal experiences and reflections on their historic journeys. Their firsthand accounts provide unique insights into the challenges, triumphs, and emotional impact of traveling to Earth's celestial neighbor.
Stunning archival footage from NASA complements the interviews, offering viewers a visual feast of the Moon landings and space travel. The film's high-quality restoration of this footage brings the Apollo era to life for modern audiences.
"In the Shadow of the Moon" received critical acclaim for its intimate portrayal of the astronauts and its ability to convey the magnitude of their achievements. It won the World Cinema Audience Award at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival.
The documentary serves as a testament to human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration. It reminds viewers of a time when the world united in awe of scientific and technological progress.
Historical Context of Documentaries in 2007
2007 marked a pivotal year for documentary filmmaking, characterized by significant cultural shifts and technological advancements. These factors reshaped the landscape of non-fiction storytelling and expanded its reach to wider audiences.
Cultural Shifts
The mid-2000s saw a surge in public interest for documentaries addressing pressing social and political issues. Films like "An Inconvenient Truth" (2006) paved the way for environmentally-focused documentaries in 2007. The Iraq War remained a contentious topic, inspiring filmmakers to explore its complexities.
Documentaries began to tackle more diverse subjects, from music ("Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream") to crime ("A Very British Gangster"). This broadening of scope attracted new viewers and challenged traditional notions of documentary content.
The line between entertainment and information blurred, with documentaries adopting more engaging storytelling techniques. This shift made non-fiction films more accessible to mainstream audiences.
Technological Advances
Digital technology revolutionized documentary production in 2007. Affordable high-definition cameras allowed filmmakers to capture footage with unprecedented quality and ease. This democratization of equipment empowered independent creators to produce professional-grade content.
Online platforms began to emerge as viable distribution channels for documentaries. While not yet mainstream, these platforms hinted at future possibilities for reaching audiences directly.
Editing software became more sophisticated, enabling filmmakers to craft compelling narratives with complex visual elements. This technological leap enhanced the overall production value of documentaries, making them more competitive with fictional films.
Influential Filmmakers
Several documentary directors made significant contributions to the genre in 2007, pushing boundaries and exploring new storytelling techniques. Their work left a lasting impact on documentary filmmaking and audiences alike.
Impact on the Genre
Alex Gibney emerged as a prominent voice in 2007 with "Taxi to the Dark Side." The film's unflinching examination of U.S. torture practices in Afghanistan garnered critical acclaim and an Academy Award. Gibney's meticulous research and hard-hitting approach set a new standard for investigative documentaries.
Michael Moore continued to challenge the status quo with "Sicko," his expose of the American healthcare system. The film's blend of humor and serious inquiry sparked national debates and influenced public discourse on healthcare reform.
Donal MacIntyre's "A Very British Gangster" offered a rare glimpse into organized crime, following the notorious Noonan family. His immersive approach to filmmaking brought viewers uncomfortably close to his subjects, blurring the lines between observer and participant.
Innovative Storytelling Techniques
Peter Bogdanovich's "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream" showcased the power of archival footage. The film's exhaustive use of historical material created an immersive chronicle of the band's career, setting a new bar for music documentaries.
Charles Ferguson's "No End in Sight" employed a unique structural approach to dissect the Iraq War. By organizing the film around key decision points, Ferguson created a compelling narrative that made complex geopolitical issues accessible to general audiences.
Jason Kohn's "Manda Bala (Send a Bullet)" used innovative visual techniques to explore corruption in Brazil. His use of stylized cinematography and non-linear storytelling brought a fresh aesthetic to the genre, proving that documentaries could be both informative and visually striking.
