I am one person that can really appreciate documentaries. I think that they are informative, touching, and often heartbreaking. There are a ton of great documentaries that deal with today's issues, but... nobody is seeing them. I feel like there is a preconceived notion that documentaries are "boring", but I urge those people to give one of these a chance, particularly if it focuses on a topic you care about.
5. An Inconvenient Truth (2006) - An informative look on the global warming crisis.
4. Bowling for Columbine (2002) - An interesting, no-holds-barred look at gun control after the Columbine tragedy. A Michael Moore classic. Available on Netflix Instant View now.
3. Food Inc. (2008) - You might not want to eat anything for a week after seeing this jarring, eye-opening documentary detailing the secrets of the American supermarket. Available on Netflix instant view now.
2. Waiting for Superman (2010) - A heartwarming (and wrenching) look at the kids in America's education system. It follows five kids and their families, all from different walks of life, as they pursue a greater education while dodging obstacles. Not only does this doc provide a look into these people's lives, it gives hope for the future, as well as a vast number of informative pieces of information that will teach and amuse. Available on Netflix Instant View now.
1. Bully (2012) - An effective look at the bullying crisis in America. The filmmakers made the decision to not focus on ANY bullies, but rather the victims, and I LOVE this. Like in Waiting For Superman, this doc follows many different kids and their families; some are dealing with loss as a cause of bullying while others are taking a stand. This film can get extremely emotional and it might occasionally anger you. This is a good indication of how effective it displays it's all too important message: Bullying must be stopped. I truly believe that this film should be required viewing in all middle schools and high schools. Available on DVD/Blu-ray on September 25th -- I know I'll be getting a copy!
