Top Documentaries of 2022
Must-Watch Films That Defined the Year
2022 saw a diverse array of compelling documentaries that captivated audiences worldwide. From intimate portraits of iconic figures to eye-opening explorations of social issues, these films offered unique perspectives on the human experience.
The year's top documentaries showcased the power of non-fiction storytelling to educate, inspire, and provoke thought. Covering topics ranging from music and sports to environmental concerns and historical events, these films demonstrated the breadth and depth of the documentary genre. Through masterful cinematography, insightful interviews, and gripping narratives, filmmakers brought important stories to light and invited viewers to see the world through new eyes.
1) The Territory (2022)
"The Territory" is a gripping documentary that sheds light on the struggle of the Uru-eu-wau-wau people in the Brazilian Amazon. Directed by Alex Pritz, the film showcases the Indigenous community's fight to protect their land from encroaching farmers and settlers.
The documentary follows a young Indigenous leader as he rallies his people to defend their territory. It highlights the complex issues surrounding land rights, deforestation, and the preservation of Indigenous cultures in the Amazon rainforest.
Filmed on location in Brazil from 2018 to 2020, "The Territory" utilizes primary source material to provide an authentic portrayal of the ongoing conflict. The film's immersive approach gives viewers a front-row seat to the challenges faced by the Uru-eu-wau-wau.
"The Territory" received critical acclaim upon its release. It premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival, where it won both an Audience Award and a Special Jury Award for Documentary Craft.
This powerful documentary serves as a testament to the resilience of Indigenous communities and raises important questions about environmental conservation and human rights.
2) Fire of Love
Fire of Love (2022) captivates audiences with its unique blend of science and romance. This documentary explores the lives of Katia and Maurice Krafft, a married couple passionate about volcanoes.
The film showcases stunning footage of volcanic eruptions captured by the Kraffts during their decades-long career. Their daring expeditions and groundbreaking research are presented through a combination of archival footage and narration.
Director Sara Dosa skillfully weaves together the Kraffts' personal story with their scientific pursuits. The result is a compelling narrative that highlights both the couple's love for each other and their shared fascination with volcanoes.
Fire of Love received critical acclaim for its visually striking imagery and emotional depth. The documentary offers viewers a rare glimpse into the world of volcanology and the risks scientists take in pursuit of knowledge.
Tragically, the Kraffts' story ends with their deaths during a volcanic eruption in 1991. Their legacy, however, lives on through this film and their contributions to the field of volcanology.
More information on Fire of Love
3) Navalny
"Navalny" (2022) offers a gripping look into the life of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. This documentary, directed by Daniel Roher, follows Navalny as he investigates his own poisoning with a nerve agent in 2020.
The film provides unprecedented access to Navalny and his inner circle during his recovery in Germany. It captures tense moments as Navalny and his team uncover details about the assassination attempt.
Roher's documentary skillfully balances political intrigue with personal drama. It showcases Navalny's determination to continue his fight against corruption in Russia, despite the risks to his life.
"Navalny" received critical acclaim and won several awards, including the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature. The film's success brought renewed attention to Navalny's cause and the state of political opposition in Russia.
Through interviews and real-time footage, the documentary paints a portrait of Navalny as both a political figure and a family man. It offers viewers insight into the complexities of Russian politics and the dangers faced by those who challenge the status quo.
4) Descendant
Descendant (2022) is a powerful documentary directed by Margaret Brown. The film explores the history of Africatown, Alabama, and the descendants of the last known enslaved Africans brought to the United States on the Clotilda.
Brown's documentary skillfully weaves together oral histories and contemporary narratives. It sheds light on the enduring impact of slavery and the importance of preserving African American history.
Descendant premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival, where it garnered critical acclaim. The film was subsequently acquired by Higher Ground Productions and Netflix for wider distribution.
Through interviews with community members and historians, the documentary paints a vivid picture of Africatown's past and present. It highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice faced by the descendants of the Clotilda survivors.
The film's strength lies in its ability to connect historical events to current issues of racial inequality and cultural preservation. Descendant serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting effects of America's slave trade.
More information on Descendant (2022)
5) Moonage Daydream (2022)
Moonage Daydream offers a mesmerizing journey through the life and art of David Bowie. Directed by Brett Morgen, this innovative documentary eschews traditional biographical formats.
The film immerses viewers in Bowie's creative world through a kaleidoscopic blend of archival footage, live performances, and visual art. It showcases Bowie's multifaceted talents as a musician, actor, and visual artist.
Morgen's approach mirrors Bowie's own artistic ethos, presenting a non-linear narrative that captures the essence of the iconic performer. The documentary features rare and never-before-seen footage, providing fresh insights into Bowie's creative process.
Moonage Daydream received critical acclaim for its unique visual style and immersive soundscape. It offers both longtime fans and newcomers a compelling exploration of Bowie's enduring cultural impact.
The film's innovative editing and sound design create a sensory experience that reflects Bowie's avant-garde spirit. It stands out among music documentaries for its bold artistic vision and commitment to capturing Bowie's singular legacy.
6) Good Night Oppy
Good Night Oppy offers a captivating look at NASA's Mars Exploration Rover mission. The 2022 documentary, directed by Ryan White, chronicles the journey of the rover Opportunity, affectionately nicknamed Oppy.
The film showcases Oppy's remarkable 15-year exploration of Mars, far exceeding its expected 90-day mission. Narrated by Angela Bassett, it blends archival footage with cutting-edge visual effects to bring Oppy's adventure to life.
Good Night Oppy highlights the emotional connection between the scientists and their robotic creation. It captures the team's triumphs and challenges as they guide Oppy across the Martian landscape.
The documentary received praise for its ability to humanize space exploration. It presents complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging manner, appealing to a wide audience.
Good Night Oppy serves as a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. It celebrates the spirit of discovery and the dedication of the NASA team behind this groundbreaking mission.
More information on Good Night Oppy (2022)
7) All the Beauty and the Bloodshed (2022)
Laura Poitras directed this powerful documentary about artist and activist Nan Goldin. The film explores Goldin's life, art, and advocacy work.
It focuses on her efforts to hold the Sackler family accountable for their role in the opioid epidemic. Goldin founded PAIN (Prescription Addiction Intervention Now) to raise awareness about the issue.
The documentary interweaves Goldin's personal history with her present-day activism. It covers her experiences during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and her more recent fight against the Sacklers.
Poitras skillfully combines archival footage, interviews, and Goldin's photography to create a compelling narrative. The film received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and social relevance.
All the Beauty and the Bloodshed won several awards, including the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. It offers a thought-provoking look at art, activism, and the impact of corporate greed on public health.
8) The Janes (2022)
"The Janes" documents the clandestine efforts of a group of women in Chicago who provided safe but illegal abortions in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Directed by Tia Lessin and Emma Pildes, the film sheds light on a pivotal time in women's health history.
The documentary features interviews with former members of the Jane Collective, who risked arrest to help women in need. It explores their motivations, methods, and the risks they faced while operating their underground network.
"The Janes" premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2022 and was later released on HBO Max. The film's release coincided with renewed debates about reproductive rights in the United States, adding to its cultural significance.
Through archival footage and personal accounts, the documentary provides a compelling look at grassroots activism and the struggle for reproductive freedom. It offers viewers a glimpse into a time when abortion was illegal and the lengths women went to in order to help one another.
9) Sidney
"Sidney" (2022) is a compelling documentary that explores the life and career of legendary actor Sidney Poitier. Directed by Reginald Hudlin, the film offers an in-depth look at Poitier's groundbreaking achievements in Hollywood.
The documentary features interviews with Poitier himself, as well as insights from notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Denzel Washington, and Halle Berry. It chronicles Poitier's journey from his humble beginnings in the Bahamas to becoming the first Black actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor.
"Sidney" delves into Poitier's struggles with racism in the entertainment industry and his commitment to choosing roles that challenged stereotypes. The film showcases his most iconic performances and their impact on American culture.
Produced by Oprah Winfrey, the documentary received critical acclaim for its comprehensive portrayal of Poitier's life and legacy. It premiered on Apple TV+ in September 2022, introducing a new generation to Poitier's remarkable story.
More information about Sidney (2022)
10) Sr. (2022)
"Sr." offers an intimate look at the life and career of Robert Downey Sr., the avant-garde filmmaker and father of actor Robert Downey Jr. Directed by Chris Smith, this documentary explores the complex relationship between father and son.
The film showcases Downey Sr.'s unconventional approach to cinema and his influence on the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s. It features archival footage and candid interviews with both Downeys, providing insight into their shared experiences in the film industry.
"Sr." also touches on Downey Sr.'s battle with Parkinson's disease, adding a poignant layer to the documentary. The film balances humor and heartfelt moments, capturing the essence of the elder Downey's irreverent spirit and artistic legacy.
Through personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes glimpses, "Sr." paints a multifaceted portrait of a father-son relationship shaped by creativity, addiction, and redemption. It serves as both a tribute to Downey Sr.'s work and a reflection on family bonds.
More information on "Sr." (IMDB)
Cinematic Techniques in Documentaries
Documentaries in 2022 employed innovative storytelling methods and striking visual aesthetics to captivate audiences. Filmmakers pushed creative boundaries to present compelling narratives.
Innovative Storytelling
Many 2022 documentaries utilized non-linear narratives to engage viewers. "Fire of Love" interspersed archival footage with present-day interviews to chronicle the lives of volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft.
Animated sequences enhanced storytelling in several films. "All the Beauty and the Bloodshed" incorporated artistic animations to illustrate photographer Nan Goldin's life experiences and activism.
Voice-over narration remained a powerful tool. In "Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off," Hawk's own narration provided intimate insights into his skateboarding career and personal struggles.
Visual Aesthetics
Cinematographers in 2022 documentaries crafted visually stunning imagery. "Fire of Love" showcased breathtaking close-up shots of active volcanoes, immersing viewers in the dangerous beauty of eruptions.
Lighting techniques played a crucial role in setting mood. "The Princess" utilized dramatic lighting in interview segments to emphasize the emotional weight of Princess Diana's story.
Drone footage expanded visual perspectives in nature documentaries. Aerial shots captured vast landscapes and animal migrations, offering viewers unique vantage points of the natural world.
Color grading enhanced visual storytelling. Documentaries like "Sr." employed distinct color palettes to differentiate between time periods and emotional tones throughout the narrative.
Impact of Documentaries on Society
Documentaries in 2022 played a crucial role in shaping public discourse and cultural understanding. They shed light on important issues and provided unique perspectives on historical events.
Social Awareness
Documentaries in 2022 tackled pressing social issues, bringing them to the forefront of public consciousness. Films like "All the Beauty and the Bloodshed" exposed viewers to activist efforts against the opioid crisis. This increased awareness led to more informed discussions and potential policy changes.
Environmental documentaries highlighted climate change concerns. "Fire of Love" captivated audiences with its portrayal of volcanologists, sparking interest in earth sciences and conservation efforts.
Many films addressed racial inequality and social justice. "Descendant" traced the history of the last slave ship to arrive in America, prompting conversations about generational trauma and reparations.
Cultural Reflection
2022's documentaries served as mirrors reflecting societal values and cultural shifts. Music documentaries like "Nothing Compares" about Sinead O'Connor explored the intersection of art, activism, and public persona.
Sports documentaries, such as the Derek Jeter series, examined the cultural impact of athletes beyond their athletic achievements. These films highlighted the role of sports figures in shaping national identity and social norms.
Biographical documentaries like "Sr." offered intimate portrayals of public figures, allowing viewers to connect with their subjects on a more personal level. This genre fostered empathy and understanding across different generations and backgrounds.
