Documentaries That Changed The World

A vast assortment of documentaries have been filmed and released to depict real life incidents, adventures and subjects; many of which invoke strong feelings, emotions and thoughts. Some of the most compelling documentaries that have changed the world are those which brought to light subject matter, theories, issues and personal stories which make viewers contemplate the severity or urgency associated with the issues presented.

Fahrenheit 9/11 was released in 2004 and was filmed, produced and directed by Michael Moore. The film explored the United States in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent war launched in the Middle East as a result. Personal interviews with those directly impacted by the attacks and those affected due to the associated war gave candid and sometimes heart wrenching details of what life in America post-9/11 was like. One of the most poignant interviews during the film was that of a mother whose son was serving in Iraq and her overt patriotism is couched by sentiments of doubting the war itself.

An Inconvenient Truth, released in 2006 was the work of then ex-Vice President Al Gore. Gore had spent the better part of his tenure during his years at the White House lobbying for global awareness in terms of the environment. The documentary follows Gore as he tells of the root causes and eventual impacts global warming will present, all while basing his statements on scientifically proven research. This documentary caused many to call in to question the policies surrounding global warming and the lack of urgency for the issue, considering the evidence outlined and presented in the film.

Man on Wire, released in 2008, is actually a documentary which uses footage from 1974. The film brings about strong emotions through the simplicity of the filming and the venue of the event. This film is footage of tightrope walker Philippe Petit who walked out between the now missing Twin Towers high above Manhattan and simply danced for an hour. This film is relevant as it reminds those the void the 9/11 attacks had on American culture.

Bowling for Columbine, released in 2002, was another adventure through the lens of Michael Moore. The film is an examination of the Columbine school shooting tragedy and how the youth culture in America had changed; both leading up to the event and in the aftermath. The film also details the emotions and feelings those closest to the incident experienced, and explores the long lasting effects of having such a tragedy occur in a small town.

Don’t Look Back, released in 1967, is a documentary which is centered around the life, times, struggles and successes of Bob Dylan. The gritty look in to the life of the folk singer icon gives fans a glimpse in to the personal struggles Dylan battled such as the resounding success and fan base Dylan enjoyed, though such fame is shown as being both lonely and consuming at the same time.

Hoop Dreams, 1994, is a documentary which brings to life the struggles of inner city teenagers as this film examines the struggles, dreams, hopes, fears and pitfalls of Chicago youth. Specifically, the film chronicles the overt natural talent of young men, though many discuss the lack of money, attention and opportunities; and thus examines how even talent is not always a guarantee for eventual success.

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