If you’re in the mood for captivating true stories that delve into the depths of reality, look no further than the best documentaries on Prime Video. Unlike fictional narratives, documentaries offer an unfiltered look at the world, exploring both the good and the evil, the nurturing and the abandoning. These films provide a chance to dive deep into unexplored stories, shedding light on unanswered questions and shedding light on forgotten tales. From true crime enthusiasts to music lovers and advocates of girl power, there’s a documentary for every interest group on Prime Video.
Lucy and Desi (2022): A Candid Portrait of Hollywood’s Beloved Couple
Director Amy Poehler takes us on a journey through the lives of the iconic Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz in “Lucy and Desi.” This documentary chronicles their rise to fame as a couple in Hollywood, their experiences during the heyday of “I Love Lucy,” and the challenges they faced in an industry that was not always accepting of Desi’s Cuban heritage. “Lucy and Desi” offers an intimate look at the lives of these beloved TV stars, humanizing them beyond their television personas and celebrating their enduring legacy.
Little White Lie (2014): An Unflinching Exploration of Identity
In “Little White Lie,” filmmaker Lacey Schwartz takes us on a deeply personal journey of self-discovery. Raised as a white Jewish girl, Schwartz later learns that her biological father is Black. Co-directed with James Adolphus, this documentary delves into family, heritage, and the complexities of identity. With raw interviews and family home movies, “Little White Lie” sparks a profound conversation about race, unveiling uncomfortable family secrets and lies.
Horror in the High Desert (2021): A Haunting Disappearance Unraveled
In “Horror in the High Desert,” director Dutch Marich presents a pseudo-documentary that unravels the mystery of a disappearance in Northern Nevada’s High Desert region. Inspired by the true story of extreme hiker Kenny Veach, the film uses found footage elements and reenactments to explore the circumstances surrounding the vanishing. Follow the investigation and examine the events leading up to the disappearance in this gripping and haunting documentary.
Judy Blume Forever (2023): Celebrating a Trailblazing Author
“Judy Blume Forever” pays homage to the iconic author whose groundbreaking works empowered generations of young readers. This documentary features interviews with fans and Judy Blume herself as she reflects on her remarkable journey. Directed by Davina Pardo and Leah Wolchok, the film honors how Blume’s books fearlessly tackled topics of sexuality, adolescence, and change, sparking a powerful impact on readers’ lives and perceptions.
The Secret Life of the Cruise (2018): Behind the Scenes of Seafaring
Beneath the glamour of a cruise ship lies an invisible army working tirelessly to ensure a smooth voyage. “The Secret Life of the Cruise” takes audiences below deck of the MSC Seaside, one of the largest cruise ships in the world, to reveal the tremendous effort and massive crew behind the scenes. Explore the jobs and tasks that contribute to the seamless operation of the ship, providing an all-access pass to a side of the cruise experience rarely seen by passengers.
Jasper Mall (2020): The Changing Face of Shopping Centers
“Jasper Mall” is a raw and unfiltered exploration of the economic struggles affecting traditional malls, exemplified by the slow decline of Alabama’s Jasper Mall. Co-directed by Bradford Thomason and Brett Whitcomb, the film delves into the lives of the people connected to the shopping center, from patrons to tenants. Capturing the nostalgia of malls in America, “Jasper Mall” reflects on cultural shifts and the changing dynamics of retail spaces.
Wildcat (2022): A Healing Journey Through the Amazon
Directed by Trevor Frost and Melissa Lesh, “Wildcat” takes us on a raw journey into the heart of the Amazon. The film follows Harry Turner, a young English veteran seeking solace and healing in the remote wilderness. During his exploration, he encounters scientist Samantha Zwicker and a baby ocelot, leading to a transformative experience that goes beyond a nature documentary. “Wildcat” explores the interconnectedness of our planet, offering a beautifully inspiring and touching narrative of healing.
The Sound of 007 (2022): A Musical Journey Through James Bond
“The Sound of 007” delves into the history of the iconic James Bond franchise, exploring the creation of its memorable movie theme songs. Filmmaker Mat Whitecross takes audiences on a sensory journey through generations of music, from the genesis of Dr. No’s unforgettable theme to the modern masterpiece from Billie Eilish in “No Time To Die.” Featuring interviews with franchise actors, including Daniel Craig, this documentary celebrates the timeless impact of James Bond’s music.
Good Night Oppy (2022): The Incredible Journey of Opportunity
Narrated by Angela Bassett, “Good Night Oppy” tells the incredible true story of NASA’s exploration rover named Opportunity. Directed by Ryan White, the film follows the journey of this tiny rover sent on a three-month mission to Mars, which miraculously survives for 15 years. Through interviews with NASA employees and footage from the original mission, “Good Night Oppy” offers an uplifting message and an exciting adventure that reaches far beyond our solar system.
These documentaries on Prime Video offer an array of stories, each providing a unique perspective on the world we inhabit. So, settle in and prepare to be captivated by these compelling true tales. Whether it’s the lives of beloved Hollywood stars, the exploration of identity, or the mysteries of the universe, these documentaries promise to leave a lasting impact on their viewers. Happy streaming!
