Top Documentaries of 2020
Must-Watch Films That Defined the Year
The year 2020 saw an exceptional crop of documentary films that captured critical moments and stories from around the world. From intimate personal narratives to sweeping examinations of social issues, these non-fiction works provided viewers with compelling glimpses into real lives and events during an unprecedented time.
The best documentaries of 2020 covered a wide range of subjects, including sports, politics, social justice, and the unfolding global pandemic. Many offered unique perspectives on current events and historical figures, while others shone a light on lesser-known stories and communities. Through powerful storytelling and innovative filmmaking techniques, these documentaries expanded our understanding of the world and left lasting impressions on audiences.
1) The Social Dilemma (2020)
"The Social Dilemma" examines the impact of social media on society. Directed by Jeff Orlowski, this documentary-drama hybrid features insights from tech experts who helped create popular social platforms.
The film explores how social media algorithms manipulate user behavior and attention. It highlights concerns about addiction, mental health issues, and the spread of misinformation.
Through dramatized scenes, "The Social Dilemma" illustrates how these platforms affect individuals and families. The narrative follows a fictional family struggling with social media's influence on their daily lives.
Tech insiders provide alarming testimonies about the design and business models behind social networks. They discuss how these platforms prioritize engagement and profit over user well-being.
The documentary received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking content. It sparked conversations about digital ethics and the need for responsible technology development.
2) 13th (2016)
Ava DuVernay's powerful documentary "13th" 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 presents a compelling argument that the criminal justice system has been used as a modern form of racial control. Through interviews with scholars, activists, and politicians, the documentary traces the evolution of racial inequality from the end of the Civil War to the present day.
The film explores topics such as Jim Crow laws, the war on drugs, and the prison-industrial complex. It combines archival footage with contemporary interviews to create a comprehensive look at systemic racism in America.
"13th" received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking content and masterful storytelling. It was nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
More information on "13th" (IMDB)
3) My Octopus Teacher
My Octopus Teacher (2020) captivated audiences with its breathtaking underwater cinematography and heartwarming story. The documentary follows filmmaker Craig Foster as he develops an unexpected bond with a wild octopus in the kelp forests off the coast of South Africa.
Foster's daily dives over the course of a year reveal the intelligence and adaptability of this fascinating cephalopod. The film showcases the octopus's remarkable ability to problem-solve, evade predators, and interact with its environment.
Through Foster's narration, viewers gain insight into the emotional connection that forms between human and octopus. This unique relationship challenges perceptions of interspecies communication and highlights the complexity of marine life.
My Octopus Teacher received critical acclaim for its stunning visuals and poignant storytelling. The documentary won numerous awards, including the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature at the 93rd Academy Awards.
The film's success brought attention to ocean conservation efforts and inspired viewers to reconsider their relationship with nature. My Octopus Teacher offers a powerful reminder of the wonders that exist beneath the waves and the importance of preserving marine ecosystems.
More information on My Octopus Teacher
4) American Murder: The Family Next Door (2020)
American Murder: The Family Next Door captivated audiences with its raw and unflinching examination of a tragic family murder case. Released on Netflix in September 2020, the documentary quickly became one of the platform's most-watched true crime features.
The film focuses on the disappearance and murder of Shanann Watts and her two young daughters in Colorado. It uses firsthand footage and social media posts to piece together the events leading up to the crime.
Director Jenny Popplewell crafts a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of the case. The documentary refrains from sensationalism, instead allowing the facts to speak for themselves through primary sources.
American Murder received praise for its innovative storytelling approach and sensitive handling of the subject matter. It offers viewers a chilling look into a seemingly picture-perfect family and the dark secrets that lay beneath the surface.
The film's success highlighted the public's continued fascination with true crime stories and Netflix's ability to produce impactful documentaries. It remains a haunting exploration of domestic violence and family tragedy.
5) Athlete A
Athlete A (2020) shines a light on the USA Gymnastics sex abuse scandal. This powerful documentary follows investigative journalists from The Indianapolis Star as they uncover the disturbing story of Dr. Larry Nassar's abuse of young female gymnasts.
The film delves into the systemic issues within USA Gymnastics that allowed Nassar's actions to continue for decades. It features interviews with survivors, including Maggie Nichols, the first athlete to report the abuse to USA Gymnastics.
Directors Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk craft a compelling narrative that showcases the bravery of the survivors and the persistence of the reporters. The documentary also explores the broader implications of the scandal on the world of competitive gymnastics.
Athlete A received critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of a difficult subject and its thorough examination of institutional failures. It serves as a testament to the importance of investigative journalism and the courage of those who speak out against abuse.
6) Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution
Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution (2020) offers a powerful glimpse into the disability rights movement. The documentary focuses on Camp Jened, a summer camp for disabled teens in the 1970s.
Directors Nicole Newnham and James LeBrecht masterfully blend archival footage with present-day interviews. They showcase how the camp's inclusive environment sparked a revolution.
The film follows campers as they grow into disability rights activists. It highlights their fight for accessibility and equal rights, culminating in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Crip Camp received critical acclaim for its inspiring storytelling and historical significance. It won the Audience Award at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival.
The documentary provides an eye-opening look at a often-overlooked civil rights movement. It celebrates the resilience and determination of the disability community.
7) Disclosure
Disclosure (2020) examines Hollywood's portrayal of transgender people and its impact on American culture. Directed by Sam Feder, this documentary features insights from prominent trans figures in the entertainment industry.
The film explores how media representations have shaped public perceptions of transgender individuals over time. It showcases clips from early silent films to modern television shows, highlighting both problematic and progressive depictions.
Laverne Cox, a well-known trans actress and advocate, serves as an executive producer for the documentary. Her involvement adds credibility and personal perspective to the project.
Disclosure premiered at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, garnering critical acclaim for its thorough analysis of trans representation in media. The film later became available on Netflix, reaching a wider audience.
By examining a wide range of media examples, Disclosure offers viewers a comprehensive look at the evolution of transgender portrayals in film and television. It serves as both an educational tool and a call for more authentic representation.
More information on Disclosure (2020)
8) Boys State
"Boys State" (2020) offers a captivating glimpse into American democracy through the lens of an annual civics program. The documentary follows 1,000 Texas high school boys as they build a representative government from scratch.
Directors Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine capture the intense week-long experience. Participants engage in campaigns, form political parties, and navigate complex social dynamics.
The film focuses on a few key characters, showcasing their personal growth and political strategies. It reveals both the promise and challenges of the American political system.
"Boys State" received critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of youth civic engagement. The documentary won the U.S. Documentary Competition Grand Jury Prize at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival.
The film provides a thought-provoking look at leadership, democracy, and the future of American politics. It raises questions about partisanship, compromise, and the nature of political discourse.
More information on Boys State
9) All In: The Fight for Democracy (2020)
"All In: The Fight for Democracy" is a powerful documentary directed by Liz Garbus and Lisa Cortés. The film explores the critical issue of voter suppression in the United States.
Stacey Abrams, a prominent political figure, collaborated with the directors to shed light on this pressing matter. The documentary interweaves personal experiences with historical context to illustrate how voter suppression has affected American democracy.
The film examines various tactics used to limit voting rights, from literacy tests and poll taxes of the past to more subtle modern methods. It provides an in-depth look at the barriers many citizens face when attempting to exercise their right to vote.
Released during the lead-up to the 2020 presidential election, "All In" aimed to raise awareness about the importance of protecting voting rights. The documentary received praise for its timely and informative approach to a complex issue.
Combining expert insights, historical footage, and personal stories, the film offers viewers a comprehensive understanding of voter suppression's impact on American democracy.
10) The Dissident
"The Dissident" (2020) offers a gripping exploration of the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent Saudi journalist. Directed by Bryan Fogel, this documentary delves into the events surrounding Khashoggi's disappearance in Istanbul.
The film meticulously pieces together evidence and testimonies, shedding light on the global implications of the case. It features interviews with Khashoggi's fiancée and fellow dissidents, providing personal insights into the journalist's life and work.
Fogel's documentary examines Saudi Arabia's efforts to control international dissent, revealing a complex web of power and influence. The film utilizes advanced digital forensics to uncover details about the murder and subsequent cover-up attempts.
"The Dissident" garnered critical acclaim for its thorough investigative approach and compelling narrative structure. It premiered at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, earning praise for its timely and impactful content.
The documentary serves as both a tribute to Khashoggi and a stark warning about the dangers faced by journalists and activists worldwide.
Cultural Impact of Documentaries
Documentaries in 2020 shaped public discourse and influenced filmmaking trends. They shed light on pressing issues and introduced innovative storytelling techniques.
Social Awareness and Change
Documentaries like "All In: The Fight for Democracy" and "Time" spotlighted crucial social issues. These films sparked conversations about voting rights and criminal justice reform. "Crip Camp" raised awareness about disability rights, inspiring viewers to advocate for inclusivity.
Social media amplified the reach of these documentaries, allowing them to trend and generate widespread discussion. Many viewers reported changing their perspectives or taking action after watching these films.
Educational institutions incorporated 2020 documentaries into curricula, using them as teaching tools to explore complex topics.
Influence on Filmmaking
The success of 2020 documentaries encouraged filmmakers to experiment with new formats. "Dick Johnson Is Dead" blended fiction and reality, pushing the boundaries of traditional documentary storytelling.
Streaming platforms increased investment in documentary production, recognizing their popularity and cultural impact. This shift provided more opportunities for diverse voices and stories.
Documentaries like "76 Days" demonstrated the power of timely, on-the-ground reporting. Filmmakers embraced real-time storytelling, capturing unfolding events as they happened.
The pandemic forced innovation in production techniques, with remote interviews and archival footage becoming more prevalent.
Analysis of Documentary Themes
The top documentaries of 2020 explored a range of pressing societal issues. Environmental concerns and political developments emerged as prominent themes, reflecting the year's major global events and ongoing challenges.
Environmental Issues
Several documentaries in 2020 focused on climate change and environmental degradation. "I Am Greta" chronicled the rise of young activist Greta Thunberg, highlighting the growing youth climate movement.
"The Social Dilemma" examined the environmental impact of technology and social media addiction. It revealed the carbon footprint of data centers and e-waste from discarded devices.
"Spaceship Earth" revisited the Biosphere 2 experiment, offering lessons on closed ecological systems and sustainability. The film explored mankind's relationship with nature and our planet's fragility.
Political Narratives
Political themes dominated many acclaimed documentaries in 2020. "All In: The Fight for Democracy" investigated voter suppression tactics in the U.S., coinciding with a contentious election year.
"The Dissident" examined the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, shedding light on press freedom issues and international politics. It sparked discussions on human rights and government accountability.
"76 Days" provided an intimate look at Wuhan's COVID-19 outbreak response. The film captured the political implications of the pandemic's early days and global health governance.
"Totally Under Control" critically analyzed the U.S. government's handling of the coronavirus crisis, highlighting the intersection of public health and politics.
