The art of documentary is exceptional. Experimental or educational, documentaries have garnered much critical acclaim and popularity as more and more people venture towards consuming visual content than written. We’ve curated a list of documentaries released in 2020, that must be on your to-watch list.
The Painter and The Thief
Benjamin Ree’s documentary, The Painter and The Thief, captures the essence of an unexpected friendship between an artist, Barbora Kysilkova, and a thief who stole her most valuable paintings from a gallery in Oslo. A character study in visuals, The Painter and The Thief presents the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of human nature, and the intricate depth of love and pain. It eventually replaces all the initial questions about this relationship with a sense of compassion for the characters and their bond.
The Social Dilemma
Thought provoking, informative, and beautifully crafted, The Social Dilemma narrates an eye opening revelation about the science of social media. It enlightens us about the algorithm and process that goes into making us scroll and scroll till the end of the our social media feeds. The documentary touches upon all the nooks and corners of the society’s attraction towards new media.
A film still: The Go-Go's
My Octopus Teacher
A film depicting serendipity within a short span of time, My Octopus Teacher is masterpiece in capturing the gift of nature. Wrapped in the calming blues of the sea and beautiful marine life, this documentary explores the life of Craig Foster, a diver, and an octopus, who becomes his life coach. The combination of enchanting music and stunning visuals enhances the spirit and journey of the diver-octopus duo.
The Go-Go’s
The Go-Go’s chronicles the work which went behind making the most remarkable, all-female new wave band from the 80s. This straightforward documentary expresses the power of friendship formed within the band members as they explored their unfamiliar environment during the initial stages of the band. Directed by Alison Ellwood, the documentary is an incredible treat to the eyes and ears, providing reminiscence for retro music lovers.
The Speed Cubers
A brilliant documentary with noteworthy direction and cinematography, The Speed Cubers gives us a glimpse of friendship emerging from competition. The interaction between the lead characters, Felix and Max, packed in a short time frame, is heartwarming and inspirational. Throwing light on the speed cubing community, it is a beautiful take on an underdog sport and the brimming talent hidden within people around us. Some life lessons, immersed in an alluring story, is exactly what the documentary stands for.
Text Arunika Sajith