The Ten Best Documentaries of 2024
Documentary filmmaking continues to thrive, both theatrically and on streaming services. There are now more docs available to audiences than ever before. Obviously, no one person could see all of them, but as a voter in the Critics Choice Documentary Awards, I see a lot. These are the ten best non-fiction films I saw in 2024, in alphabetical order.
Flipside - Christopher Wilcha’s funny, insightful film starts off being about a rundown New Jersey record store that’s struggling to stay open in a digital world. He ends up expanding the subject matter in several different directions, ultimately making a cinematic statement about the importance of pursuing your passions in life. (Streaming on Prime Video)
One South: Portrait of a Psych Unit - This two-part doc takes you inside the inpatient psychiatric unit at Zucker Hillside Hospital in Queens, NY – a facility that specializes in treating college students and young adults. It gives a raw, riveting, up-close-and-personal look at both those receiving mental health treatment and those giving it. (Streaming on Max)
Piece by Piece - Musician Pharrell Williams’ life story is recounted via LEGO animation, and the result is funny and charming, as well as enlightening about his massive success. (Available on digital for rental or purchase)
Rule of Two Walls - Director David Gutnik and his team follow various artists attempting to deal with the Ukraine war through their creativity. It leaves you angry at the injustice Ukrainian citizens are enduring, but also inspired by their determination to stand up for the country they love. (Available on digital for rental or purchase)
Steve! (Martin): A Documentary in 2 Pieces - The wild and crazy guy himself is the subject of this fascinating – and predictably hilarious - two-parter. The first half focuses on his career in stand-up, the second on his pursuits within and outside of the entertainment industry. Martin has never been this unguarded on camera before. (Streaming on Apple TV+)
Stopping the Steal - As someone who watched untold hours of news footage about the Jan. 6 insurrection and several prior documentaries on the subject, I thought I knew just about everything there was to know. I was wrong. The on-camera testimonies of Republican officials and former members of the Trump administration (including Bill Barr) paint a clear portrait of what happened behind closed doors. You walk away realizing how close one man came to derailing our entire democracy, all because he couldn’t admit defeat. (Streaming on Max)
Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story - The beloved actor’s life, career, and debilitating injury are the focus of this emotional film. Through his own words, video footage, and memories of loved ones, you come to grasp the full scope of Reeve’s refusal to let being paralyzed extinguish his hopeful spirit and love of life. Watch this one with tissues handy. (Streaming on Max)
The Truth vs. Alex Jones - Incredible, often jaw-dropping courtroom footage helps tell the story of how the families of Sandy Hook victims took down Alex Jones and Infowars after he spent years calling the tragedy a hoax. The film makes clear that Jones is one of the most heinous villains of modern times. (Streaming on Max)
We Will Dance Again - The horrific October 7th massacre at the Supernova Music Festival – wherein Hamas terrorists ambushed concertgoers in Israel, leaving over 1,200 dead – is recounted through cell phone footage captured by the survivors. Yes, it’s difficult to watch, but the minute-by-minute recap offers vital understanding into just how vicious this attack was. (Streaming on Paramount+)
Will & Harper - Will Ferrell goes on a cross-country road trip with longtime friend and SNL writing partner Harper Steele. She’s a transgender woman, and they want to see if/how their friendship changes as a result of the transition. Obviously, this is a very funny film, but it’s also incredibly emotional as the duo come face-to-face with transphobia during their trek. Will & Harper could help generate empathy toward the trans community. (Streaming on Netflix)
© 2024 Mike McGranaghan