Documentary AreaSimply the best Documentaries

In Antarctica, one the most sophisticated hunting behaviours in the animal kingdom takes place – killer whales creating waves to wash seals off pieces of floating ice. A team of scientists and filmmakers travel heads to these freezing waters to find out more about these unique animals and how they do it. But their mission is not just to deepen our understanding of this extraordinary hunting behaviour. The team are also intent on learning more about the secret – and more tender side – of the lives of these killer whales.

‘Sugarcane’ is a compelling 2024 documentary that delves into the harrowing legacy of the Canadian Indian residential school system. The film investigates the discovery of unmarked graves at St. Joseph's Mission near Williams Lake, British Columbia, bringing to light the physical and sexual abuses endured by Indigenous children. Through intimate interviews with survivors and their descendants, directors Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie reveal the enduring impact of these institutions on Indigenous communities, highlighting their resilience and ongoing quest for justice.
The narrative intertwines personal stories with a broader historical context, showcasing the strength and unity of a community confronting its painful past. ‘Sugarcane’ not only exposes the atrocities committed but also celebrates the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples as they heal and reclaim their cultural identity. This poignant film serves as a testament to their perseverance and the ongoing fight for recognition and reconciliation.

Click CC for subtitles. Oscar-nominated director Petra Costa presents a gripping investigation into the rise of evangelical power in Brazil, revealing how religious leaders have gained unprecedented political influence. With extraordinary access to President Lula, former President Bolsonaro, and Silas Malafaia, the country’s most powerful televangelist, the film uncovers a dramatic power struggle where apocalyptic faith becomes a political force. What emerges is a haunting portrait of a nation at a crossroads, where spiritual warfare is not just metaphor — it’s policy.

This archival-driven documentary delves into the early transformation of a young singer from Michigan into a global pop phenomenon between 1978 and 1992. Through rarely heard audio tapes and unseen footage, it reveals her vulnerabilities—her mother's untimely death, the losses of close friends, and the fierce ambition that fueled her rise. These emotional undercurrents are woven into a broader narrative of cultural rebellion: Embracing MTV, challenging conservative norms, and amplifying gay aesthetics—all leading to the provocative release of the Sex book and the emergence of an outspoken HIV/AIDS activist.
Immersive and intimate, the film portrays a determined artist who became more than a pop star—she emerged as a cultural catalyst. Highlighting her reinventions, bold provocations, and personal losses, it reframes her ascent as not just fame, but identity forged.

The documentary delves deep into the mysterious and catastrophic collapse of ancient civilizations during the late Bronze Age, as empires from Greece to ancient Egypt were wiped off the map. It explores the various theories and hypotheses that have emerged to explain their sudden downfall, revealing the tumultuous events that brought an end to a once-thriving era of human history.
Through invasions, mega-droughts, natural disasters, and rebellions, we discover the complex web of factors that were involved. With stunning visual imagery, expert interviews and immersive storytelling, this film offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the most pivotal and enigmatic periods of human history. And it warns that we could be facing a similar combination of threats today.

Now, the most famous woman to graduate college finds her voice, but when she tries to use it, a toxic culture that perpetuates misogyny will do anything to shut her up. Brooke Shields talked about her life and career. There was a time when she was a household name, a cultural phenomenon. Shields didn’t need much of an introduction. Most often, her starring role in the 1980s film 'Blue Lagoon' or her Calvin Klein ads are enough.