The 10 Best Documentaries of 2023
As a member of the documentary branch of the Critics Choice Association, I see a lot of non-fiction films each year. This past year had an abundance of exceptional works. Rather than rank them by number, I’ll present them alphabetically. They are all equally worth seeking out. These are my picks for the 10 Best Documentaries of 2023.
20 Days in Mariupol - This shattering documentary consists of footage journalist Mstyslav Chernov shot during the twenty days he spent in the Ukrainian city immediately after the start of the Russian invasion. It is impossible not to be profoundly impacted when you see the true extent of the death and destruction. (Available to rent.)
American Symphony - Musician Jon Batiste attempts to write an all-new, groundbreaking symphony to be performed at Carnegie Hall while simultaneously helping his wife through treatment for leukemia in this emotional look at how life and music influence each other. (Streaming on Netflix.)
Beyond Utopia - The film follows two cases of people trying to escape the totalitarian regime of North Korea. There’s an entire family trying to get out, as well as a woman hoping to extricate her teenage son. One has a happy ending, the other doesn’t. Both have you on the edge of your seat, praying for a positive outcome. (Available to rent.)
Every Body - There are people who believe gender is binary. Those people need to see director Julie Cohen’s portrait of three individuals who are intersex – that is to say, they have chromosomal and/or physical characteristics of both males and females. Given our current societal discussion of gender, the movie could not be more enlightening and informative. (Streaming on Peacock.)
Great Photo, Lovely Life - Photojournalist Amanda Mustard documents her effort to confront her grandfather, a known sexual predator who abused multiple children, both in the family and outside of it. Her actions provide a measure of healing, yet also tear her family apart in ways she couldn’t anticipate. The insidious nature of child sexual abuse and the equally insidious structure that often protects abusers is powerfully detailed here. (Streaming on Max.)
I Got a Monster - Director Kevin Abrams offers an in-depth investigation into Wayne Jenkins, a Baltimore cop who, together with his Gun Trace Task Force, illegally terrorized Black citizens, framing them for crimes they didn’t commit and even robbing them. The movie challenges your notions of what it means to “back the Blue.” (Available to rent.)
The Mission - John Chau was a well-intentioned Christian who tried to bring the Gospel to indigenous people on a remote island that had no contact with the outside world. His efforts cost him his life. The Mission pays tribute to his sincerity while also questioning the wisdom of trying to change cultures that don’t want to be changed. The story related here is absolutely riveting. (Streaming on Hulu and Disney+.)
Sound of the Police - This probing, provocative documentary looks at the often tense relationship between law enforcement and the Black community. It additionally makes a compelling argument that “the only race of cop is cop,” i.e. that Black Americans can’t even count on Black cops to treat them fairly. Regardless of where you come down, the movie asks important questions. (Streaming on Hulu.)
Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie - The beloved actor narrates the story of his career and the devastating Parkinson’s diagnosis that changed his life. Although Fox’s deterioration is certainly sad, his refusal to give up is inspiring. (Streaming on Apple TV+.)
Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour - Like Talking Heads’ Stop Making Sense and Prince’s Sign o’ the Times, this concert film captures its subject’s astonishing live show, but also showcases the charismatic personality that made her a groundbreaking artist. And, of course, the music is great. If you aren’t a Taylor Swift fan going in, you will be coming out. (Available to rent.)
